While the Cincinnati Red Stockings were the first professional baseball club in 1869, Northern Ohio got its first team a decade later when the Cleveland Blues joined the National League. The Blues played their home games at Kennard Street Park and were managed by Jim McCormick, who was a native of Scotland.

McCormick was also the front line pitcher for Cleveland, posting a record of 20-40. The Blues did not fare much better, finishing in sixth place with a record of 27-55.