Buck Ewing

<p> Buck Ewing (1859-1906) was regarded by contemporaries as the greatest catcher and all-around player of his era. A lifetime .300-hitter he played every position on the diamond and led the league in fielding at two different positions. The first National League hitter to reach double digits in home runs Ewing once stole six bases in a game pioneered the snap forearm throw to catch runners napping averaged 35 steals a season and is the only catcher to lead his team in stolen bases (53 in 1888).</p><p>Off the field Ewing's personality proved as multifaceted as his playing skills. Considered both affable and modest he still received criticism from fellow players for negotiating contracts directly with the National League and was wrongly accused of faking injuries. This revealing biography provides a detailed exploration of Ewing's life and career shedding new light on one of baseball's most talented and versatile players.</p>