He served as the Reds' right fielder for four seasons, leading American Association outfielders in fielding twice.

He also pitched on multiple occasions, serving as a relief pitcher at a time when relievers were not commonplace.

Corkhill finished the 1888 season with the Brooklyn Bridegrooms after the team purchased his contract from Cincinnati.

He left the team in mid-season and returned to the NL to finish the year, playing a single game with the Reds before joining the Pittsburgh Pirates.

He played for parts of two seasons with the Pirates, before retiring after being hit in the head by a pitch from Ed Crane.