Tony Murphy (baseball)

Francis J. "Tony" Murphy was an American Association catcher who played for the 1884 New York Metropolitans. He appeared in one game on October 15, 1884 and recorded one hit and one run in three at-bats. He remained in the minor leagues through 1889, playing primarily in the Connecticut State League and the New England League.
In July 1883, Murphy became the first professional baseball player to use William Gray's patented inflatable chest protector. Although mocked "unmercifully" for protecting himself, Murphy's adoption of the chest guard eventually made overhand pitching safe and widespread.