Billy Sunday

Outfield
  • Card series: Pioneer Portraits II: 1875-1899
  • City: Chicago
  • Team: White Stockings
  • League: National League

William Ashley Sunday (1862-1935) was born into extreme poverty and rose to become a beloved pro player making a handsome salary. In 1891 he gave that all up to pursue Christian ministry, cutting his income by two-thirds. Al Spalding had signed Sunday to his Chicago White Stockings on the recommendation of Cap Anson in 1883. His speed was his greatest asset.

  • In ’85 Chicago held an exhibition with Sunday racing the speediest AA player. Billy won easily.
  • His integrity and popularity led Anson to name Sunday the team’s business manager
  • Sunday was recruited for the Players’ League in 1890, but remained loyal to his employer

Auction History