Clark Griffith

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Clark Griffith

Inducted:
1946

Clark Griffith MLB Hall of Fame

Personal Details

5-6, 156lb (168cm, 70kg)

Born:
November 20, 1869
Clear Creek, Missouri, U.S.

Died:
October 27, 1955
Washington, D.C., U.S.

Position: 
Pitcher
Executive
Manager
Owner

College:
Illinois State University

Clark Griffith had one of the most diverse and influential careers in baseball history—succeeding as a player, manager, and long-time team owner. As a pitcher, Griffith won 237 games across 20 seasons, earning a reputation for guile and durability during the dead-ball era.

He was a founding player in the American League and helped the Chicago White Sox capture the AL’s first pennant in 1901. Griffith transitioned into managing with equal success, leading teams like the Highlanders and Senators before becoming owner of the Washington Senators in 1920. Under his leadership, the Senators won the 1924 World Series. Known as “The Old Fox,” Griffith was deeply respected for his baseball acumen and commitment to player development.

He played a pivotal role in shaping the early American League and the future of Washington baseball.

He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1946.

Griffith's Awards and Records

  • MLB ERA leader (1898)
  • Washington Nationals Ring of Honor
  • Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame
  • Inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame (1946 – Veterans Committee)
  • 237 career wins as a pitcher
  • Founding member of the American League
  • Managed and later owned the Washington Senators
  • Led White Sox to 1901 AL pennant (manager)
  • Won 20+ games 7 times
  • Owner of 1924 World Series Champion Senators
  • Nicknamed “The Old Fox” for his strategy and leadership
  • Active in MLB for over 60 years as player, manager, and owner
  • Helped integrate Latin American scouting into the majors

MLB Teams:

As Manager
Chicago White Stockings (1901–1902)
New York Highlanders (1903–1908)
Cincinnati Reds (1909–1911)
Washington Senators (1912–1920)

As Owner
Washington Senators (1920–1955)

MLB Stats

Seasons (Pitcher):
20 (1891–1914)
Games Pitched:
453
Wins–Losses:
237–146
ERA:
3.31
Strikeouts:
1,068
Complete Games:
297
Shutouts:
20
Winning Percentage:
.619