Lewis Pessano Dickerson

B: Oct 11, 1858, Tyaskin, MD — D: Jul 23, 1920, Baltimore, MD

Buttercup is believed to be the first Italian-American to play in the majors, although not under his family birth name of Pessano. He joined the Cincinnati Reds in 1878 at the age of 19, then moved to the Troy Trojans, Worcester Ruby Legs, Pittsburgh Alleghenys, St. Louis Maroons and Buffalo Bisons during his seven year career. While he was not outstanding as a ballplayer, Dickerson is notable for having been a pioneer, paving the way for later Italian-Americans in the big leagues. Dickerson is buried in Baltimore, MD, near his birthplace.

AB	R	H	HR	RBI	AVG
1762	302	500	4	127	.284