Where Have you Gone Albert Spalding?

*****Cubs Rant Alert, Cubs Rant Alert*****

from the WGN baseball blog:

129 Years And Counting

On April 25, 1876, the Cubs played the first game in franchise history, winning at Louisville 4-0. The White Stockings (as the team was initially known until 1894) were managed by Hall of Famer Albert Spalding, who tossed the shutout that day. Spalding is also credited with the first hit in franchise history.

* The team went 52-14 in their first season (25-6 at home, 27-8 on the road, and 52-14 in day games).

* The Cubs are the only team of the original 8 charter members of the National League to operate continuously in one city.

* The 1876 Opening Day lineup:

2B Ross Barnes
3B Cap Anson
1B Calvin McVey
CF Paul Hines
P Albert Spalding
RF Bob Addy
C Deacon White
SS Johnny Peters
LF John Glenn

* Going into tonight, the franchise's all-time record is 9,764-9,212.