The 1887 season was the pinnacle in the history of the Detroit Wolverines. The team won the National League pennant with a 79-45 record and then defeated the St. Louis Browns in the 1887 World Series. Ganzel's playing time increased to 51 games as catcher, six more than Charlie Bennett's 45 games. Ganzel's defensive play improved in 1887. He reduced his error count from 37 to 33 while appearing in more games, and his 6.78 range factor was the third highest among the National League's catchers. On the offensive side, he hit .260 in 227 at bats. In the 1887 World Series, Ganzel scored five runs, had 13 hits in 58 at bats and stole three bases.