Billy O'Brien: A Home Run Leader of the 19th Century

William Smith "Billy" O'Brien, born on March 14, 1860, in Albany, New York, was a Major League Baseball (MLB) first baseman who played during the late 19th century. Known for his power-hitting abilities, O'Brien made his MLB debut on September 27, 1884, with the St. Paul Saints. Over his career, he played for teams like the Kansas City Cowboys, Washington Nationals, and Brooklyn Gladiators.

A standout moment in O'Brien's career came in 1887 when he led the National League in home runs with 19, earning recognition as one of the league's premier sluggers. That season, he also recorded a .278 batting average and 73 RBIs, showcasing his offensive prowess. Despite his success, O'Brien's career was marked by inconsistency, with his performance declining in subsequent seasons.

In his MLB career, O'Brien appeared in 356 games, recording a .256 batting average, 32 home runs, and 206 RBIs. His contributions to baseball during its formative years reflect his talent and impact as a power hitter. O'Brien passed away on May 26, 1911, in Kansas City, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy as one of the early stars of professional baseball.

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