John Leighton

John Atkinson Leighton

• Bats Left, Throws Left
• Height 5' 11", Weight 170 lb.

• Debut July 12, 1890
• Final Game July 20, 1890
• Born October 4, 1861 in Peabody, MA USA
• Died October 31, 1956 in Lynn, MA USA

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Biographical Information

John Leighton was above-average as both a hitter and a center fielder in his seven games for Syracuse in 1890 at age 28. The regular center fielder that year was Bones Ely, who at age 27 was in his first full season in the majors. Ten years later Ely would give way at shortstop to Honus Wagner on the 1901 Pirates.

John also had a long minor league career, as well as managing several seasons. He lived a very long life, and for a while he was the oldest former major leaguer alive.