Amos Cross

Amos Cross was a professional baseball player who made his mark in the late 19th century, contributing to the early evolution of the game during a period characterized by the transition from the deadball era to a more dynamic style of play. Born in 1860, Cross played from 1885 until 1887, participating in a total of 117 games as a position player. Over the course of his brief career, he amassed 118 hits, showcasing a batting average of .268, which reflected a solid performance in an era when offensive output was just beginning to increase. Cross demonstrated versatility on the field, as evidenced by his ability to contribute not only with his bat—hitting 1 home run and driving in 56 runs—but also with his speed on the bases, as he recorded 13 stolen bases. His contributions helped to lay the groundwork for the evolving strategies of the game, as players began to embrace a more aggressive style that included base stealing and situational hitting. Although his career was relatively short, Amos Cross remains a part of the rich tapestry of baseball history, representing the formative years of the sport.