He played pitcher and outfielder for the Kansas City Cowboys of the American Association in two games on September 27 and 28, 1889.

However, he died shortly thereafter, as Mary is listed as living with Ophelia and one John Moffitt in the 1900 census.

Recent research has unearthed a death certificate for Stephen Ladue dated January 10, 1895.

The cause of death is listed as typhoid fever and various articles in the Trenton (MO) Evening Republican confirm that this is the same person as Steve Ladew.

The newspaper adds that Ladew was a fireman for the Rock Island railway who was remembered as a quiet and unassuming gentleman and as a pitcher for the local ball club.