As a starting pitcher for the Providence Grays (1881-1885), Boston Beaneaters (1886-1889), Boston Reds (1890) and Cincinnati Reds (1891), Radbourn compiled a 309-195 career record. In 1884 he won the National League Triple Crown with a 1.38 ERA, 60 wins and 441 strikeouts. His 60 wins in a season is a record which is never expected to be broken.
He was elected in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.