From Bytown to the Big Leagues

From Ottawa baseball's humble beginnings in the nineteenth century to the modern era of professional franchises, From Bytown to the Big Leagues takes you on a thrilling journey through 150 years of America's pastime in Canada's capital. Discover the stories of Ottawa's earliest baseball teams, including two remarkable face-offs against the famed Boston Red Stockings. These early encounters laid the groundwork for the sport's growth in the region, as amateur teams competed passionately throughout the late nineteenth century, culminating in the city's first-and short-lived-professional team, the Senators.

Follow the rise and fall of professional franchises like the Ottawa Giants, the Ottawa Lynx, and the current Ottawa Titans. Each team's journey is marked by significant milestones and challenges, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of baseball in the city.

The book delves into the stories of local heroes who have graced the diamond, including Jack Humphries, Frank "Shag" Shaughnessy, Érik Bédard, and Philippe Aumont. These players, among others, have left their mark on Ottawa's baseball legacy, inspiring generations of fans and aspiring athletes.

This book is the result of collaboration among members of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR), local researchers, and journalists.

From Bytown to the Big Leagues celebrates the unsung heroes and untold stories that make Ottawa's baseball history so special. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the sport, this book will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the game's place in the city's cultural fabric.