Art Croft facts for kids

Arthur F. Croft (born January 23, 1855 – died March 16, 1884) was an American Major League Baseball player. He played for three different teams during his three-year professional career in the Major Leagues. He was known for playing as a first baseman and an outfielder.

Career Highlights

Early Days with the Red Stockings

Art Croft was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He started his professional baseball career in 1875. He joined the St. Louis Red Stockings team. This team was part of the National Association.

During that season, Croft played in 19 games. He mostly played in the outfield. He had a batting average of .200. This means he got a hit 200 times out of every 1000 chances.

Playing for the Brown Stockings

In 1877, Croft moved to a new team. He joined the St. Louis Brown Stockings. This team was part of the National League. He played in 54 of the team's 60 games that year.

He split his playing time between first base and left field. This was his best season for hitting. He had a career-high batting average of .232. He also scored 23 runs and had 27 RBIs. RBIs mean he helped his teammates score runs with his hits.

Final Season with the Blues

The next season, in 1878, Croft joined the Indianapolis Blues. This team was also in the National League. This was his last season playing in the Major Leagues.

He played in all 60 of the team's games. He was the main first baseman for the team. His batting average was .158 that year. He scored 22 runs for the Blues.

Career Summary and Legacy

Art Croft played for three years in Major League Baseball. In total, he played in 139 games. His career batting average was .195. He scored 50 runs and had 45 RBIs. He also hit 14 doubles.

Sadly, Art Croft passed away in St. Louis on March 16, 1884. He was only 29 years old. He died due to an illness. He is buried at Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis.