thumb|Alfred J. Reach Historical Marker on [[Chestnut Street (Philadelphia)|Chestnut Street in Philadelphia]]
Alfred James Reach (May 25, 1840 – January 14, 1928) was an Anglo-American sportsman who was one of the early stars of baseball in the National Association. After his playing career, he went on to become an influential executive, publisher, sporting goods manufacturer, and spokesman for the sport. He was influential in the founding of the Philadelphia Phillies in 1875.
Early life
Reach was born in London, on May 25, 1840.
Career
Reach was a regular for the champion Eckford club in Brooklyn in the early 1860s before moving to the Philadelphia Athletics in 1865.
Upon his retirement from playing in 1875, he helped found the Philadelphia Phillies franchise. Reach served as team president from 1883 to 1899.
Death
Reach died at age 87 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and is interred at West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania.
Legacy
A Pennsylvania historical marker was dedicated on April 4, 2003 at 1820 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia for Reach's contribution to baseball.