Joe Start, often referred to as "Old Reliable," was a first baseman whose career spanned the early years of professional baseball. Born in New York City on October 14, 1842, Start began playing baseball in the 1860s, a time when the sport was still in its formative stages. He initially played for the Brooklyn Atlantics, a dominant team in the amateur era of baseball. His tenure with the Atlantics was marked by their victory in the 1864 championship, a testament to the team's prowess during that period.

As baseball transitioned into a professional sport, Start joined the National Association of Professional Base Ball Players (NAPBBP), the first professional league, in 1871. He played for the New York Mutuals, where he quickly established himself as a reliable player. His skills at first base and consistent batting made him a valuable asset to the team. Start's ability to adapt to the evolving game was evident as he continued to perform at a high level throughout his career.

In 1876, the National League was formed, replacing the NAPBBP as the premier professional baseball league. Start joined the Hartford Dark Blues, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities on the field. His performance with Hartford further solidified his reputation as a dependable player. After the Dark Blues disbanded, Start moved to the Chicago White Stockings, contributing to their efforts in the league.

The latter part of Start's career was spent with the Providence Grays, a team he joined in 1879. During his time with the Grays, Start played a crucial role in their success. The team won the National League pennant in 1879 and again in 1884, with Start's experience and skill playing a part in these achievements. The 1884 season was particularly memorable, as the Grays went on to win the first-ever World Series, defeating the New York Metropolitans of the American Association.

Start's career was characterized by his longevity and consistency. He played professionally until 1886, a remarkable feat considering the physical demands of the sport and the era in which he played. His ability to maintain a high level of performance over such an extended period was rare for players of his time. Start's career batting average was .299, a reflection of his steady offensive contributions.

After retiring from professional baseball, Joe Start lived a quieter life away from the public eye. He passed away on March 27, 1927, in Providence, Rhode Island.

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