Ed Williamson

Edward Nagle Williamson
(Ned)

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 11", Weight 210 lb.

• Debut May 1, 1878
• Final Game September 27, 1890
• Born October 24, 1857 in Philadelphia, PA USA
• Died March 3, 1894 in Willow Springs, AR USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Ed Williamson had a thirteen-year career in the big leagues, mostly at third base and shortstop. He spent most of his career with the Chicago White Stockings, and was the long-time teammate of Cap Anson.

He was the all-time single season home run leader with 27 until 1919 when Babe Ruth hit 29. The record was later increased to 54, 59 and 60 by Ruth and then broken by Roger Maris with 61, Mark McGwire 70, and Barry Bonds 73. The main cause of Williamson's record-setting season was his playing in Lake Front Park, where right field was only 196 feet away. Williamson hit 25 of his 27 HR in his home park. His career high other than 1884 was 9 HR.

Prior to 1884, balls hit over the right field fence were ground rule doubles. In 1883, under the old rules, Williamson hit a then-record 49 doubles.

He worked one National League a an umpire in 1878.

A newspaper article at the end of 1891, a year after he had retired, reported that he was operating a saloon in Chicago and weighed 250 pounds.

In 1918, when his old teammate Anson was asked to pick an all-time team, he put Williamson at third base.

Notable Achievements

• NL Doubles Leader (1883)
• NL Home Runs Leader (1884)
• NL Bases on Balls Leader (1885)
• NL Saves Leader (1885)
• 20-Home Run Seasons: 1 (1884)

Records Held

• Hits, inning, 3, 9/6/1883, 7th inning (tied)
• Runs, inning, 3, 9/6/1883, 7th inning (tied)