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Ross Barnes Played Nine Seasons in Early Baseball Leagues
Infielder Ross Barnes recorded a .398 batting average over six dominant seasons from 1871 to 1876. He later contracted a malaria-type illness that ended his effectiveness after nine total seasons. Current Hall of Fame rules require ten seasons of play.
May 17, 3:01 PM·1m read1 source
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Ross Barnes played infield for the Boston Red Stockings and Chicago White Stockings from 1871 to 1881. 398 and led his league in hits and runs four times.
Barnes hit the first home run in National League history on May 2, 1876. He also led the league in batting average three times and in doubles three times during that period. 439 average and helped the Chicago White Stockings finish 52-14.
After those six seasons Barnes contracted a malaria-type illness that reduced his strength and stamina. He attempted to continue playing but appeared in only three additional seasons at a lower level of performance. His career totals reached nine seasons.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame requires ten seasons of Major League play for consideration. The rule was established in 1936 by the Hall's board of directors. Barnes therefore remains ineligible under current guidelines.
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