John Elmer "Jack" Stivetts, born on March 31, 1868, in Ashland, Pennsylvania, was a right-handed pitcher and outfielder who played in Major League Baseball during the late 19th century. His career began with the St. Louis Browns of the American Association, where he debuted on April 22, 1889. Stivetts quickly demonstrated his pitching prowess, earning a reputation for his strong arm and effective delivery.

In 1890, Stivetts joined the Boston Beaneaters of the National League, where he would spend the majority of his career. During his time with the Beaneaters, he became known for his dual role as both a pitcher and a hitter, a rarity in the era. His ability to contribute offensively was highlighted in 1893 when he hit seven home runs, a remarkable feat for a pitcher at the time.

Stivetts' pitching career was marked by several standout seasons. In 1892, he achieved a personal best with 35 wins, helping lead the Beaneaters to a league championship. His performance on the mound was complemented by his batting skills, as he frequently contributed to his own run support. Over his career, he accumulated a total of 203 wins, a testament to his effectiveness and durability as a pitcher.

In addition to his time with the Beaneaters, Stivetts also played for the Cleveland Spiders and the St. Louis Browns of the National League. His tenure with the Spiders was brief, but he continued to demonstrate his abilities both on the mound and at the plate.

Stivetts' career was characterized by his adaptability and skill in multiple facets of the game. He was one of the few players of his era who excelled as both a pitcher and a hitter, making him a valuable asset to his teams. His career batting average of .298 and his 35 career home runs underscore his offensive capabilities, which were exceptional for a pitcher of his time.

After retiring from professional baseball, Stivetts returned to his hometown of Ashland, Pennsylvania.

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