Irish Baseball History

Our Irish Baseball History Studies Project explores and celebrates the intersection of baseball history with the Irish diaspora. We also research the long, often overlooked, history of baseball in Ireland, dating back to 1874.

The Irish Impact on Baseball in America

Irish immigrants and Irish Americans have had a significant impact on the history of baseball. Irish players, coaches, managers, owners, executives, sportswriters, broadcasters, and fans have shaped the game from its earliest days.

Records Held By Irish Players

Irish players currently hold the following single-season and career records:

• The highest single-season batting average (Hugh Duffy batted .440 in 1894)
• The first perfect game in the history of professional baseball (Pud Galvin, 1876)
• Baseball’s first 300-game winner (Pud Galvin, 1888)
• The first no-hitter in American League history (Pete Dowling, 1901)
• Lowest lifetime ERA (Ed Walsh, 1.79)
• Longest National League hitting streak (tied) (Willie Keeler, 44 games)
• Runs Batted In (RBI) per game (Sam Thompson, .926)

Irish Managers and Coaches

Irish managers have also left an indelible mark on the game. Among the accomplishments of Irish managers:

• Most all-time wins (Connie Mack, 3,731 wins)
• Most wins in the National League (John McGraw, 2,669 wins)
• The first Red Sox manager to win consecutive World Series titles (Bill Carrigan, 1915-1916)