The Cincinnati Reds, a baseball team that traces its roots back to the first-ever professional franchise in 1869, took its name from clothing worn by players.
The 1869 team was named the Red Stockings after the bright red knee-high socks worn by the players, known then as ballists. Since 1869, Cincinnati's baseball team name has always had some variation of the word red. On Friday, Ohio's other baseball franchise, the Cleveland Indians, announced the franchise would be renamed the Cleveland Guardians.
Who were the Red Stockings?
The Cincinnati Red Stockings of 1869, were baseball's first openly-paid team of players. They recorded a perfect season, with a record of 57-0. The team was so good they scored an average 40 runs a game. The team played teams on the East and West coasts that season.
The Red Stockings continued their winning ways in 1870, and then folded over finances.
