“The success of Hannegan as a pitcher is demonstrating the fact that the pitcher that can impart the most bias or twist to his balls, at the same time that he thoroughly commands its delivery.. is the player that will be most successful in his position.” New York Clipper, July 26, 1862 [David Arcidiacono]
Previous earliest use (Dickson Baseball Dictionary, 3rd edition, 2009):
1ST USE. 1862. “[Jim] Creighton, of the Excelsiors, being celebrated for his great speed and the perfect command of the ball in delivery, that he possesses” (Brooklyn Eagle, July 28; Peter Morris).
