Conversation so far:
What was Joe's occupation originally?
He pitched for semi-professional teams based in Decatur in 1888 and 1889.
What team did he start off with?
made his professional debut with the Colts in 1893.
What was their record?
The league folded as a result of financial troubles related to the Panic of 1893.
What was the result of the league folding?
Jimmie Manning, manager of the Southern League franchise in Savannah, Georgia, became manager of the Kansas City Blues of the Class-A Western League for the 1894 season.
Did Joe buy any teams then?
CANNOTANSWER.
What did he do during this panic?
signed McGinnity to pitch for the Blues.
Combined for Montgomery and Kansas City.
How long did he stay on those teams?
As McGinnity continued to struggle for Kansas City, he requested his release in June.
Was he granted a release?
McGinnity moved to Springfield, Illinois, where he worked as a coal miner, bartender, and operated a saloon.

Question: How long did he stay away from baseball?
Self-contained rewrite: How long did Joe McGinnity stay away from baseball?