This is a biography of Hall of Famer Harry Wright, known for his important role in establishing professionalism as a legitimate element of the game and for promoting its popularity as the national pastime. Possessed of an analytical mind, Wright liked the head-games of management more than the physicality of the game, and he could seem to be both behind the scenes and on the front lines simultaneously. In 1869, while he was Cincinnati's captain, manager and centre fielder, he was also the team's general manager, travelling secretary and public relations department. The book covers his youth...