With a powerful arm, a quick release, and outstanding range, speed, and agility, Long played shortstop, according to the Boston Globe, “like a man on a flying trapeze.” He joined Fred Tenney, Bobby Lowe, and Jimmy Collins in the Braves’ (then called the Beaneaters) infield that was probably the best of the 19th century. His career chances-per-game (6.4) tops all shortstops.
One of three Beaneaters to play on five NL pennant winners in the 1890s, he was a strong run producer, twice knocking in over 100 and scoring over 100 seven times. His 149 runs scored led the NL in 1893 and his 12 home runs led in 1900. Noisy and uncouth on the field, he urged teammates to greater efforts, ragged opponents, and stirred up fans. He always played all out, once breaking Pittsburgh catcher Connie Mack‘s leg with a ferocious slide when there was no play at the plate.
After his playing days, he managed in the minors. However, he contracted tuberculosis, moved far from the scenes of his success to Colorado, and died broke and friendless.