 The 1888 Detroit team did not fare as well , finishing in fifth place with a record of 68 – 63 , which was a full 16 games behind the first @-@ place New York Giants . Brouthers ' numbers declined as well , as he did not produce at the same level of his previous seasons . Even with the lower numbers , he still led the league in runs scored with 118 , and doubles for the third year in a row . The team 's decline is attributed to prolonged injuries sustained by key players , while turmoil that unfolded concerning veteran stars ' salary demands , and with falling attendance numbers , the club was forced to fold at the season 's end . Brouthers was then purchased by the Boston Beaneaters of the NL on October 16 . 
