Founded at the suggestion of Mayor William G. Thompson, the Detroit Wolverines played their first game on May 2nd in front of a crowd of 1,286 in the wooden stands at Recreation Park located between Brady Street and Willis Avenue.

Managed by Frank Bancroft the Wolverines would lose their opener 6-5 to the Buffalo Bisons. Most of the Wolverines roster came from the Cincinnati Reds, who went a hiatus following the 1880 season, before joining the American Association in 1882.

The top players on Detroit included Catcher Charlie Bennett, who had seven home runs, while driving in 64 runs both of which ranked second in the National League. The Wolverines leading pitcher was George Derby, who posted a record of 29-26.

The Wolverines would finish their first season in fourth place with a record of 41-43.