Quinlan was a position player who made a brief appearance in Major League Baseball during the 1874 season. He played in a single game on September 7, 1874, marking his entry into the early days of professional baseball, a time characterized by the sport's evolution from its amateur roots to a more organized and commercialized endeavor. In that lone game, Quinlan recorded one hit in four at-bats, resulting in a batting average of .25. He also contributed one run batted in, showcasing his ability to drive in a run despite the limited opportunities afforded to him.
Quinlan's career was short-lived, reflecting the challenges faced by many players in the nascent years of the league. During this era, the game was still developing its rules and strategies, and players often found themselves in precarious positions with limited chances to secure their place in the sport's history. While Quinlan's statistical contributions may seem modest, his participation in the league signifies the rich tapestry of baseball's past, highlighting the stories of players who laid the groundwork for future generations in a rapidly changing game.