In 1888, Ganzel appeared in a career high 95 games. He was used at multiple positions, playing 49 games at second base, 28 as catcher, nine at third base, five in the outfield, three at shortstop and one at first base. Statistically, he also had the best year of his career. In a 14-year major league career, Ganzel achieved a WAR rating above 1.0 only twice—a 1.1 rating in 1886 and a 1.7 rating in 1888. He compiled a .249 batting average and collected 46 RBIs and 12 stolen bases. Unfortunately, Ganzel's best season came while the Wolverines were in decline, finishing in fifth place with a 68-63 record. With high salaries owed to the team's star players, and gate receipts declining markedly, the team folded in October 1888 with the players being sold to other teams. On October 16, 1888, the Wolverines sold Ganzel along with Charlie Bennett, Dan Brouthers, Hardy Richardson and Deacon White to the Boston Beaneaters for an estimated $30,000.