Ross Barnes was the first batting champion in baseball history. In the 1870's the baseball season was anywhere between 30-50 games. In 1871, Ross batted over .400 to lead the league. He scored 66 runs in 31 games. Ross Barnes was an excellent bunter and chop hitter and got most of his hits with this method. Four times he hit over .400 and ended with a .316 life-time batting mark. Barnes is also the first player to lead the league in slugging pct, on base average, runs, doubles and triples. Baseballhistorian.com All Rights Reserved Ross Barnes |