Joseph Bert Tinker was born July 27, 1880 in Muscotah, Kansas. The standout shortstop with exceptional speed in the Chicago Cubs’ famed double play trio, Joe Tinker was an aggressive and spirited performer who excelled in clutch situations. He became a regular in 1902 as a 21-year-old rookie and five times led National League shortstops in fielding, contributing greatly to four Chicago pennants.
Roger Connor was born July 1, 1857 in Waterbury, Connecticut. He was one of the greatest sluggers of the 19th century. He was regularly among the league leaders in batting average and home runs until his retirement in 1897. Although he only led the league in home runs once, in 1890, Connor’s career mark of 138 was a benchmark not surpassed until 1921 by Babe Ruth.
James Anthony Abbott was born September 19, 1967 in Flint, Michigan; although one source says that he was born in Southfield, Michigan and moved to Flint shortly afterwards. Born without a right hand, southpaw Jim Abbott went directly from the University of Michigan to the Angels’ starting rotation in the spring of 1989 without spending a day in the minor leagues. Many considered the move a publicity stunt by manager Doug Rader, but after struggling early, Abbott proved his doubters wrong by winning 12 games in his rookie season.
William Nuschler Clark, Jr. was born March 13, 1964 in New Orleans, Louisiana. A 1990 poll of 65 major league players ranked Will Clark as the best clutch performer in baseball. Clark’s abundance of natural talent earned him the nickname “The Natural” and the tall first baseman never lacked for confidence.
Blog Feed Comments Feed • Ultimate Baseball Theme by Category 4