• Card series: Beginnings: 1880's
• City: Detroit
• Team: Wolverines
• League: National League
• Hall: National Baseball Hall of Fame

“Big Sam” (1860-1922). An outfielder over 15 seasons for 3 different teams, Thompson was one of the great hitters of the 19th century. Sam was the 1st player with 20 steals & 20 HRs in a season. In 1894, he was one of 4 Philly OFs to hit over .400.

• His 61 RBI in 1 month is a record
• Only 19th c. player to amass 150 RBI in a season & he did it 2x
• .923 RBI/AB ranks 1st all-time
• Back problems shortened his career; but he returned after 10 years to play 8 games for Detroit in 1906
• Elected to hall of Fame: 1974