Collins was born in the Bronx, New York, in 1868. He first joined the Boston Red Stockings, who were a part of the National League, in 1895. While with the Red Stockings, he developed a reputation as a great fielder and hitter. He was also known for his hustle and leadership abilities, which earned him the nickname "The Colonel".
Collins spent the majority of his career with the Boston Americans, which later became the Boston Red Sox. He was the team's first captain and led the club to two World Series titles in 1903 and 1904. He was also named to the AL All-Star team three times during his tenure with the Red Sox.
Collins was a key figure in the transition from the old National League to the modern American League. He was a part of the Red Sox team that won the first World Series in 1903. He was also the manager of the Boston Braves from 1907 to 1908.
Collins was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1945. He was one of the first players to be inducted, which speaks to his greatness as a player and a leader. His career batting average was .294, while his fielding percentage was .943. He is remembered as one of the greatest players of all time, and his legacy lives on through his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
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