James “Deacon” White of the Cincinnati Red Stockings is credited with pioneering the catcher’s chest protector and was the first professional to wear a catcher’s mask, at the expense of being teased by the fans. This was in 1869.
James “Deacon” White of the Cincinnati Red Stockings is credited with pioneering the catcher’s chest protector and was the first professional to wear a catcher’s mask, at the expense of being teased by the fans. This was in 1869.
