Darby O'Brien (o'brida01)
William Darby O'Brien
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 1", Weight 186 lb.
- Debut April 16, 1887
- Final Game October 15, 1892
- Born September 1, 1863 in Peoria, IL USA
- Died June 15, 1893 in Peoria, IL USA
Biographical Information[edit]
"For several years he has been failing in health, but he never murmured. On the contrary, on the field he played with all the vim and dash of a man in the best of health, but often after the excitement incident to a close contest wore off he collapsed completely." - from a New York Times article in 1893 about a benefit for Darby O'Brien
Outfielder Darby O'Brien was born and died in Peoria, IL, but spent his major league playing days in the New York area. Most of his years were with the Brooklyn Bridegrooms.
O'Brien was an above-average hitter who never led the league in any offensive category but sometimes was one of the top ten. He was fourth in batting in 1890 and second in stolen bases in 1889. He umpired a couple of games in the American Association, one in 1887 and another in 1888.
The similarity scores method shows as the most similar player somebody from a different era, Adam Comorosky. However, whereas Comorosky played during a lively ball era, O'Brien played at a less lively time and was more prominent as a hitter.
O'Brien, called an "honest, competent, hard-working and game ballplayer" by the New York Times, developed lung troubles and went to Colorado for his health but died in Illinois in June, 1893.
He is not to be confused with a contemporary of the same name, Darby O'Brien, who died even younger than this Darby.
Notable Achievements[edit]
- 100 Runs Scored Seasons: 2 (1888 & 1889)
- 50 Stolen Bases Seasons: 3 (1888, 1889 & 1892)
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