Roger Bresnahan
Inducted:
1945
Personal Details
Stats
5-9, 200lb (175cm, 90kg)
Born:
June 11, 1879
Toledo, Ohio, U.S.
Died:
December 4, 1944
Toledo, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Catcher
Outfielder
Manager
College:
NA
Roger Bresnahan, known as "The Duke of Tralee," was a trailblazing catcher in Major League Baseball. Playing from 1897 to 1915, Bresnahan was admired for his athleticism, versatility, and leadership on the field.
He began as a pitcher but made his greatest mark as a catcher, revolutionizing the position by introducing shin guards and other protective gear.
Throughout his career with teams like the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles, New York Giants, and St. Louis Cardinals, he earned a reputation as one of the smartest and toughest players of his time.
In 1945, Bresnahan was rightfully inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, securing his legacy as a pioneer who changed the way the game was played. His innovations continue to influence baseball today.
Bresnahan's Awards and Records
- Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame (1945)
- Introduced shin guards for catchers (first in MLB history)
- Helped lead the New York Giants to the 1905 World Series title
- Recognized as one of the best catchers of the Dead-ball Era
- Credited with innovations that improved player safety across all levels of baseball
- Best Season as Manager: 1911 with St. Louis Cardinals (finished 5th in National League)
MLB Teams:
As Player
Washington Senators (1897)
Chicago Orphans (1900)
Baltimore Orioles (1901–1902)
New York Giants (1902–1908)
St. Louis Cardinals (1909–1912)
Chicago Cubs (1913–1915)
As Manager
St. Louis Cardinals (1909–1912)
Chicago Cubs (1915)
MLB Stats
As Player:
Career Games Played:
1,446
Batting Average:
.279
Hits:
1,252
Home Runs:
26
Runs Batted In (RBI):
530
Stolen Bases:
212
On-Base Percentage:
.386
At-Bats
4,480
As Manager:
Career Managerial Record:
Wins:
328
Losses:
432
Winning Percentage:
.432