Tom Dowse

Thomas Joseph Dowse

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 11", Weight 175 lb.

• Debut April 21, 1890
• Final Game October 12, 1892
• Born August 12, 1866 in Mohill, Ireland
• Died December 14, 1946 in Riverside, CA USA

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Biographical Information

Tom Dowse, born in Ireland, was a catcher in the majors from 1890-92. Although he was a weak hitter, as a catcher in 1890-91 his batting averages were similar to those of the starter on his team. In 1890, he hit .208 while Chief Zimmer, the regular catcher on the team, hit .214. In 1891, he hit .224 while Jim Donahue, the regular catcher, hit .218.

Dowse also pitched 5 innings in 1890, giving up 3 runs in 5 innings. He was a multi-position player in the majors and minors, playing pretty much anywhere. He umpired three National League games in 1890.

He was born in Ireland the same year as Reddy Mack, but lived 30 years longer. The two were both in the majors in 1890, but in different leagues. After baseball, Tommy worked in the laundry business and then became an insurance agent.

"Dowse, besides being a clever catcher, especially excelling in throwing, can play well in any position, either in the out or infield, and is a good batter and base runner." - from the New York Clipper, Sept. 16, 1893, quoted here