Roger Connor, a towering figure in the early days of professional baseball, is remembered for his impressive achievements on the field. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, Connor began his major league career with the Troy Trojans in 1880. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, he was one of the tallest players of his era, which contributed to his powerful presence as a first baseman.

Connor's career spanned 18 seasons, during which he played for several teams, including the New York Gothams (later known as the Giants), the Philadelphia Phillies, and the St. Louis Browns. His tenure with the New York Gothams/Giants was particularly noteworthy, as he spent the majority of his career with this team. Connor's left-handed batting and fielding skills made him a valuable asset, and he quickly became known for his ability to hit home runs.

In an era when home runs were a rarity, Connor's power at the plate was exceptional. He led the league in home runs in 1890 and was consistently among the top hitters throughout his career. By the time he retired, Connor held the record for the most career home runs, a title he maintained until Babe Ruth surpassed him in 1921. Connor's record of 138 home runs was a remarkable achievement for the time, considering the dead-ball era's limitations on offensive play.

Beyond his home run prowess, Connor was also a skilled hitter in general. He consistently posted high batting averages, with a career average of .316. His ability to get on base and drive in runs made him a central figure in his teams' lineups. Connor's performance helped the New York Giants secure the National League pennant in 1888 and 1889, further cementing his reputation as one of the game's greats.

Connor's influence extended beyond his playing abilities. He was known for his sportsmanship and leadership on the field, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike. His career was marked by a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the game, qualities that helped him adapt to the evolving nature of baseball during his time.

After retiring from professional play, Connor remained connected to the sport, managing minor league teams and sharing his knowledge with younger players. His legacy was eventually recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1976, an honor that acknowledged his contributions to the early development of the game.

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