The Spiders began their history in the old American Association (then a major league) in 1887. They were a weak team in their early years, but started to improve after 1890, one year after moving to the National League and signing future Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Cy Young.
They had their best season in 1892, when they finished 93-56 and finished second in the league. They continued to be a winning team until their final year.
In 1899, the Spiders traded or sold off most of their stars, including Young. The team had been bought by a rival club, who transferred all Cleveland's best players to strengthen themselves. The last Spiders team was the worst in major league history, finishing 20-134. After the season, the Spiders were disbanded.
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