Search By First Name of the HOFers
Mel Ott
Inducted:
1951
Player Details
Stats
5-9, 170lb (175cm, 77kg)
Born:
March 2, 1909
Gretna, Louisiana, U.S.
Died:
November 21, 1958
New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
Position:
Right fielder
Manager
College:
NA
Melvin Thomas “Mel” Ott (born March 2, 1909, Gretna, Louisiana; died November 21, 1958) was a legendary slugger who spent his entire 22-year MLB career with the New York Giants (1926–1947). Making his debut at just 17, he quickly earned the nickname “Master Melvin.”
Ott became the first National Leaguer to hit over 500 career home runs, finishing with 511, and led the NL in homers six times. He was an 11-time All-Star (1934–1945) and helped the Giants win the 1933 World Series. A .304 career hitter with a .414 on-base percentage and .947 OPS, Ott was also known for his famous high-legged batting stance. He managed the Giants from 1942 to 1947 before transitioning to broadcasting.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1951, Ott’s combination of consistency, power, and longevity left a lasting mark on MLB history.
Ott's Awards and Records
- 12× All-Star (1934–1945)
- World Series champion (1933)
- 6× NL home run leader (1932, 1934, 1936–1938, 1942)
- NL RBI leader (1934)
- San Francisco Giants No. 4 retired
MLB Records
- First National League player to hit 500 career home runs
- Most home runs by a left-handed National League batter at retirement (511 HRs)
- Most games played before age 30: 1,739 games
- Most career home runs at the Polo Grounds: 323
- Led NL in home runs 6 times: 1932, 1934, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1942
- One of only 3 players to hit 30+ home runs in 8 consecutive seasons during the 1930s
- Hit 18 career pinch-hit home runs, an NL record at the time
MLB Teams
As player
New York Giants (1926–1947)
As manager
New York Giants (1942–1948)
Number Worn
4
MLB Stats
Games played
2,730
Batting average
.304
Hits
2,876
Home runs
511
Runs batted in
1,860
Runs scored
1,859
On-base %
.414
Slugging %
.533
OPS
.947
Stolen bases
89
Mickey Cochrane
Inducted:
1947
Personal Details
5-10, 180lb (178cm, 81kg)
Born:
April 6, 1903
Bridgewater, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died:
June 28, 1962
Lake Forest, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Catcher
Manager
College:
Boston University
Mickey Cochrane was one of baseball’s greatest catchers and a natural leader on and off the field. A fierce competitor with a sharp baseball mind, Cochrane led both the Philadelphia Athletics and Detroit Tigers to World Series titles.
Behind the plate, he was a steady, agile defender with a strong arm. At bat, Cochrane hit for average and got on base consistently, finishing with a .320 career average — among the best for catchers. As a player-manager with Detroit, he guided the Tigers to back-to-back pennants in 1934 and 1935, winning it all in ’35.
His career was tragically shortened by a head injury from a pitch in 1937, but his impact was already undeniable. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1947, Cochrane remains a benchmark for leadership, grit, and excellence in catching.
Cochrane's Awards and Records
- 2× All-Star (1934, 1935)
- 3× World Series champion (1929, 1930, 1935)
- 2× AL MVP (1928, 1934)
- 5× AL Pennant Winner
- Philadelphia Baseball Wall of Fame
- Athletics Hall of Fame
- Career OBP of .419 – one of the highest among catchers
- .320 Career Batting Average – highest for a Hall of Fame catcher
- Player-Manager for Detroit Tigers (1934–1938)
- Led Tigers to World Series win as manager in 1935
- Known as “Black Mike” for his intensity and competitive spirit
- Inducted into National Baseball Hall of Fame (1947)
MLB Teams:
As player
Philadelphia Athletics (1925–1933)
Detroit Tigers (1934–1937)
As manager
Detroit Tigers (1934–1938)
Number Worn:
2
MLB Stats
Seasons:
13 (1925–1937)
Games Played:
1,482
Batting Average:
.320
Hits:
1,652
Home Runs:
119
RBIs:
830
Runs Scored:
1,041
On-Base Percentage (OBP):
.419
Managerial record:
348–250
Winning %
.582
Mordecai Brown
Inducted:
1949
Player Details
Stats
5-10, 175lb (178cm, 79kg)
Born:
October 19, 1876
Nyesville, Indiana, U.S.
Died:
February 14, 1948
Terre Haute, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Pitcher
College:
NA
Mordecai Peter “Three‑Finger” Brown (October 19, 1876 – February 14, 1948) earned his legendary status as one of baseball’s greatest pitchers despite a severely injured right hand, which granted him a devastating drop‑curve. Debuting in 1903 with the St. Louis Cardinals, he found his stride after joining the Chicago Cubs in 1904.
Brown won 20+ games six straight seasons (1906–1911), led the NL in ERA (1.04) in 1906, and helped Chicago to World Series titles in 1907 and 1908. Over a 14‑year career, he recorded a 239–130 record with a stunning 2.06 ERA—the lowest in MLB history among pitchers with 200+ wins—and 1,375 strikeouts. Known for reliability, Brown also led the National League in saves four times (1908–1911). After brief stints with Cincinnati and in the Federal League, he returned to pitch one final season for the Cubs in 1916.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1949, Brown remains revered for transforming a handicap into a pitching advantage and dominating his era with craft and tenacity.
Brown's Awards and Records
- 2× World Series champion (1907, 1908)
- NL wins leader (1909)
- MLB ERA leader (1906)
- Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame
MLB Records
- Two-time World Series champion (1907, 1908)
- Six straight 20-win seasons (1906–1911)
- Four consecutive seasons leading the NL in saves (1908–1911)
- Career ERA of 2.06 – third-lowest in MLB history
MLB Teams
As player
St. Louis Cardinals (1903)
Chicago Cubs (1904–1912)
Cincinnati Reds (1913)
St. Louis Terriers (1914)
Brooklyn Tip-Tops (1914)
Chicago Whales (1915)
Chicago Cubs (1916)
As manager
St. Louis Terriers (1914)
MLB Stats
Complete Games
271
Win–Loss
239–130
Win %
.648
ERA
2.06
Strikeouts
1,375
WHIP
1.07
Innings Pitched
3,172.1
Shutouts
55
Saves
49 (led NL 4×)
Morgan Bulkeley
Inducted:
1937
Personal Details
Born:
December 26, 1837
East Haddam, Connecticut, U.S.
Died:
November 6, 1922
Hartford, Connecticut, U.S.
Position:
Executive (Governor/Mayor)
Morgan Bulkeley was a pivotal figure in baseball history, serving as the first president of the National League (1876). A businessman and politician, Bulkeley played a crucial role in establishing professional baseball as an organized and respected sport.
His leadership helped solidify the league’s structure, setting the foundation for Major League Baseball.
Although his tenure as league president lasted only one year, Bulkeley’s impact was lasting. He later became the Governor of Connecticut and a U.S. Senator, showcasing his influence beyond the baseball world.
In recognition of his contributions to the game, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937 as a pioneer of the sport.
Bulkeley's Awards and Records
- Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee (1937, Pioneer Category)
- First President of the National League (1876)
- Helped establish baseball as a structured professional league
- Served as Governor of Connecticut (1889–1893)
- S. Senator from Connecticut (1905–1911)
Career
United States Senator from Connecticut
(March 4, 1905 – March 3, 1911)
54th Governor of Connecticut
(January 10, 1889 – January 4, 1893)
25th Mayor of Hartford, Connecticut
(April 5, 1880 – April 2, 1888)
1st President of the National League of Professional Baseball Clubs
(February 2, 1876 – December 7, 1876)
Nap Lajoie
Inducted:
1937
Player Stats
Born:
September 5, 1874
Woonsocket, Rhode Island, U.S.
Died:
February 7, 1959
Daytona Beach, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Second baseman
Nap Lajoie was one of baseball’s greatest hitters and a dominant second baseman of the early 20th century. Playing from 1896 to 1916, primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and Cleveland Naps, he was known for his exceptional batting skill and defensive prowess.
Lajoie was the first player in MLB history to record 3,000 hits in the American League and won the Triple Crown in 1901, cementing his place among the all-time greats.
A five-time AL batting champion, Lajoie was so revered that the Cleveland team was renamed the “Naps” in his honor. His career .338 batting average ranks among the highest in history.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937, he remains a symbol of excellence in baseball.
Lajoie's Awards and Records
- Triple Crown (1901)
- 5× AL batting champion (1901–1904, 1910)
- AL home run leader (1901)
- 3× RBI leader (1898, 1901, 1904)
- Cleveland Guardians Hall of Fame
MLB Teams
Philadelphia Phillies (1896–1900)
Philadelphia Athletics (1901–1902)
Cleveland Bronchos / Naps (1902–1914)
Philadelphia Athletics (1915–1916)
MLB Stats
Seasons:
21
Games Played:
2,480
Hits:
3,252
Home Runs:
82
Runs batted in:
1,599
Batting Average:
.339
Stolen Bases:
380
Paul Waner
Inducted:
1952
Player Details
Born:
April 16, 1903
Harrah, Oklahoma, U.S.
Died:
August 29, 1965
Sarasota, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Right fielder
College:
East Central State Teachers College
Paul Waner (April 16, 1903 – August 29, 1965), nicknamed “Big Poison,” was one of baseball’s most prolific contact hitters. Spending 15 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates and later with Brooklyn, Boston, and New York, Waner hit .333 over a 20-year career. He earned NL MVP honors in 1927 after recording 237 hits, 131 RBIs, and a .380 average, leading the Pirates to the World Series.
A three-time NL batting champion and four-time All-Star, he racked up eight seasons with 200+ hits and led the league in doubles, triples, hits, RBIs, runs scored, and total bases multiple times. Waner joined the 3,000-hit club in 1942. Known for his sweet swing, strong arm in right field, and baseball intelligence, he retired with 3,152 hits, 605 doubles, 191 triples, and 1,309 RBIs. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1952, his No. 11 was retired by the Pirates in 2007.
Waner's Awards and Records
- 4× All-Star (1933–1935, 1937)
- NL MVP (1927)
- 3× NL batting champion (1927, 1934, 1936)
- NL RBI leader (1927)
- Pittsburgh Pirates No. 11 retired
- Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame
MLB Records
- 3,152 career hits – 18th all-time as of 2024
- 8 seasons with 200+ hits – Among most in MLB history
- One of only two brothers (with Lloyd Waner) to each record 2,000+ hits
- Career .333 batting average – Top 40 all-time
- Ranked 10th all-time in triples – 191 career triples
- One of only 5 players in MLB history with 600+ doubles and 190+ triples
MLB Teams
Pittsburgh Pirates (1926–1940)
Brooklyn Dodgers (1941)
Boston Braves (1941–1942)
Brooklyn Dodgers (1943–1944)
New York Yankees (1944–1945)
Number Worn:
11
MLB Stats
Games Played
2,549
Batting Average
.333
Hits
3,152
Doubles
605
Triples
191
Home Runs
113
Runs Scored
1,627
RBI
1,309
Stolen Bases
104
On‑Base %
.404
OPS
.877
200‑Hit Seasons
8
Pie Traynor
Inducted:
1948
Player Stats
6-0, 170lb (183cm, 77kg)
Born:
November 11, 1898
Framingham, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died:
March 16, 1972
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Third baseman
Manager
College:
NA
Pie Traynor was one of the finest third basemen of baseball’s early era and a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Pirates for 17 seasons. Playing from 1920 to 1937, Traynor was known for his graceful defense, consistent bat, and leadership. He recorded 2,416 career hits, a .320 batting average, and drove in over 1,200 runs. Traynor helped lead the Pirates to a World Series championship in 1925 and a National League pennant in 1927.
He was considered the best third baseman of his time and one of the first to combine strong offense with elite defense at the hot corner. Following his playing days, he managed the Pirates and became a beloved broadcaster in Pittsburgh. Traynor was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1948, cementing his legacy as a Pirates legend and one of the game's early stars.
Traynor's Awards and Records
- 2× All-Star (1933, 1934)
- World Series champion (1925)
- Pittsburgh Pirates No. 20 retired
- Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame
- World Series Champion (1925)
- National League Pennant Winner (1927)
- Career .320 Batting Average
- 2,000+ Career Hits as a Third Baseman (First to Achieve This Feat)
- Widely Regarded as the Best 3B of His Era
- Pittsburgh Pirates Manager (1934–1939)
- Pirates Broadcaster and Club Ambassador Post-Retirement
- Pro Baseball Hall of Fame Inductee (1948)
- MLB All-Century Team Nominee
MLB Teams:
As player
Pittsburgh Pirates (1920–1935, 1937)
As manager
Pittsburgh Pirates (1934–1939)
Number Worn:
20
MLB Stats
Seasons:
17 (1920–1937)
Batting Average:
.320
Hits:
2,416
Home Runs:
58
Runs Batted In:
1,273
Runs Scored:
1,183
Stolen Bases:
158
On-Base Percentage:
.362
Slugging Percentage:
.435
Managerial stats:
Years Managed:
1934–1939
Games Managed:
835
Win–Loss Record:
457–406
Winning Percentage:
.530
Rabbit Maranville
Inducted:
1954
Player Details
5-5, 155lb (165cm, 70kg)
Born:
November 11, 1891
Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died:
January 6, 1954
Woodside, New York, U.S.
Position:
Shortstop
Second baseman
Manager
College:
NA
Rabbit Maranville was one of baseball’s most dazzling shortstops, celebrated as much for his glove and spirit as his longevity. Debuting in 1912, he played 23 seasons, primarily with the Boston Braves. Known for his acrobatic defense, quick reflexes, and boundless energy, Maranville became a fan favorite and clubhouse leader.
Though a career .258 hitter, his value came from his elite fielding, gritty hustle, and infectious personality. He helped lead the “Miracle Braves” to a stunning World Series win in 1914 after a last-place start. Maranville played over 2,600 games and was still active in his mid-40s.
His antics and flair often overshadowed how respected he was by teammates and opponents alike. Elected posthumously to the Hall of Fame in 1954, Maranville remains a symbol of early baseball's heart, humor, and hustle.
Maranville's Awards and Records
- World Series champion (1914)
- Braves Hall of Fame
- 5× Top-10 MVP voting finishes
- Played more than 2,600 games, mostly at shortstop
- Boston Braves Hall of Fame member
- Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame (1954)
- Known for outstanding defensive play and infectious energy
MLB Records
- MLB leader in games played (1913, 1914)
- Most career games played at shortstop at retirement
- Second player in MLB history to appear in over 2,500 games
- One of the longest careers in MLB history (23 seasons)
Years active:
As player
Boston Braves (1912–1920)
Pittsburgh Pirates (1921–1924)
Chicago Cubs (1925)
Brooklyn Robins (1926)
St. Louis Cardinals (1927–1928)
Boston Braves (1929–1933, 1935)
As manager
Chicago Cubs (1925)
Career Stats
Seasons:
23 (1912–1935)
Games Played:
2,670
Hits:
2,605
Runs:
1,255
Batting Average:
.258
Home Runs:
28
RBI:
884
Stolen Bases:
291
On-Base Percentage:
.318
Ray Schalk
Inducted:
1955
Player Details
5-9, 165lb (175cm, 74kg)
Born:
August 12, 1892
Harvel, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
May 19, 1970
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Catcher
Manager
College:
NA
Ray Schalk was one of the greatest defensive catchers of the Deadball Era and a key figure in early 20th-century baseball. Known for his exceptional agility, game-calling, and toughness behind the plate, Schalk played 18 seasons — 17 of them with the Chicago White Sox. He redefined the catching position with his ability to handle pitchers, throw out runners, and block the plate.
Though not a heavy hitter, he collected over 1,300 hits and became the first catcher to reach 1,000 career games behind the plate. Schalk was a member of the 1917 World Series-winning White Sox and was praised for his clean reputation during the infamous 1919 Black Sox scandal. After his playing career, he managed briefly and remained involved in the game as a scout and coach.
Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955, Ray Schalk helped set the standard for defense-first catchers in baseball history.
Schalk's Awards and Records
- First catcher to play 1,000+ games in the MLB
- Member of the 1917 World Series Champion White Sox
- Caught a then-record 1,727 games behind the plate
- Credited with modernizing the catcher’s role in field generalship
- Career caught stealing % consistently among league leaders
- Caught four no-hitters during his career
MLB Records
- First catcher in MLB history to appear in over 1,000 games
- Held the MLB record for most games caught (1,727)
- Caught four no-hitters — a record at the time
- Led AL catchers in assists 9 times
MLB Teams:
As player
Chicago White Sox (1912–1928)
New York Giants (1929)
As manager
Chicago White Sox (1927–1928)
MLB Stats
Seasons:
18 (1912–1929)
Games Played:
1,762
Hits:
1,345
Batting Average:
.253
Runs:
579
Doubles:
211
Triples:
20
Home Runs:
11
Runs Batted In (RBI):
593
Stolen Bases:
177
On-Base Percentage (OBP):
.340
Red Faber
Inducted:
1964
Player Details
6-2, 180lb (188cm, 81kg)
Born:
September 6, 1888
Cascade, Iowa, U.S.
Died:
September 25, 1976
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Pitcher
College:
Loras College
Red Faber was one of the most reliable and durable pitchers of the dead-ball and live-ball eras. Spending his entire 20-year career with the Chicago White Sox from 1914 to 1933, Faber combined longevity with high-level performance. He was a key figure in the team’s 1917 World Series championship, posting two complete-game victories in the Fall Classic.
Known for his masterful spitball — which he was allowed to continue using after it was banned — Faber adjusted to changing eras and remained effective into his 40s. He led the American League in ERA twice, and consistently ranked among the league leaders in innings pitched and complete games.
Despite missing time during World War I and the 1919 season due to illness, he won over 250 games and remained a cornerstone of the White Sox for two decades. His consistency, endurance, and impact earned him a place in Cooperstown in 1964.
Faber's Awards and Records
- World Series champion (1917)
- 2× AL ERA leader (1921, 1922)
- Chicago White Sox All-Time Leader in:Innings Pitched (4,086.2); Games Started (483) and Second in Wins (254)
MLB Records
- One of only 17 pitchers allowed to legally throw the spitball
- Most career wins by a Chicago White Sox pitcher
- Pitched two complete-game victories in the 1917 World Series
- Holds Chicago White Sox franchise records for: Innings pitched (4,086.2)and Games started (483)
MLB Teams:
Chicago White Sox (1914–1933)
Number Worn:
4
MLB Stats
Seasons:
20 (1914–1933)
Win–Loss Record:
254–213
ERA:
3.15
Strikeouts:
1,471
Complete Games:
273
Shutouts:
29
Innings Pitched:
4,086.2
Roberto Clemente
Inducted:
1973
Clemente's Awards and Records
- 15× All-Star (1960–1967, 1969–1972)
- 2× World Series champion (1960, 1971)
- NL MVP (1966)
- World Series MVP (1971)
- 12× Gold Glove Award (1961–1972)
- 4× NL batting champion (1961, 1964, 1965, 1967)
- Pittsburgh Pirates No. 21 retired
- Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame
MLB Teams
Pittsburgh Pirates (1955–1972)
MLB draft:
Signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers
Numbers Worn:
21
MLB Stats
Seasons:
18
Games Played:
2,433
At Bats:
9,454
Batting Average:
.317
Hits:
3,000
Home Runs:
240
Runs:
1416
Runs Batted In:
1,305
Stolen Bases:
83
On Base Percentage:
.359
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
Rogers Hornsby
Inducted:
1942
Personal Details
Stats:
5-11, 175lb (180cm, 79kg)
Born:
April 27, 1896
Winters, Texas, U.S.
Died:
January 5, 1963
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Second baseman
College:
NA
Rogers Hornsby, known as "The Rajah," is considered one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. Playing primarily as a second baseman from 1915 to 1937, Hornsby dazzled with his exceptional batting skills, winning seven National League batting titles.
He posted a career batting average of .358, the second-highest in MLB history. Hornsby was a two-time MVP and led the league in batting average, home runs, and RBIs during his famous 1922 Triple Crown season.
Known for his intense dedication to the game, he rarely watched movies or read newspapers, believing distractions hurt his performance. Hornsby also served as a player-manager, guiding teams like the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs.
His impact on baseball remains profound, both as a fierce competitor and a legendary figure in hitting excellence. Hornsby was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1942, cementing his place among the all-time greats.
Hornsby's Awards and Records
- World Series champion (1926)
- 2× NL MVP (1925, 1929)
- 2× Triple Crown (1922, 1925)
- 7× NL batting champion (1920–1925, 1928)
- 2× NL home run leader (1922, 1925)
- 4× NL RBI leader (1920–1922, 1925)
- Name honored by St. Louis Cardinals
- Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame
- Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame
- Major League Baseball All-Century Team
- Major League Baseball All-Time Team
MLB Records
- Highest Single-Season Batting Average – .424 in 1924 (still the NL record)
- Second-Highest Career Batting Average in MLB History
- Only Player to Hit .400 or Better in Three Different Seasons (NL)
- First National League Player to Win Two Triple Crowns
MLB Teams:
As Player
St. Louis Cardinals (1915–1926, 1933)
New York Giants (1927)
Boston Braves (1928)
Chicago Cubs (1929–1932)
St. Louis Browns (1933–1937)
Number Worn:
09
MLB Stats
Seasons:
23
Games Played:
2,259
Hits:
2,930
Batting Average:
.358
Home Runs:
301
RBIs:
1,584
Runs Scored:
1,579
Doubles:
541
Triples:
169
On-Base Percentage:
.434
Slugging Percentage:
.577
Rube Waddell
Inducted:
1946
Rube Waddell was one of the most dominant and eccentric pitchers of baseball’s early era. A left-hander with a blazing fastball and baffling curve, Waddell led the American League in strikeouts six consecutive times from 1902 to 1907.
His unpredictable behavior, including leaving games to chase fire trucks or wrestling alligators in the offseason, made him a fan favorite and a manager’s nightmare.
Despite his quirks, Waddell's talent on the mound was undeniable — he won 193 games, including four 20-win seasons, and recorded 349 strikeouts in 1904 alone, a mark that stood until 1965. He helped the Philadelphia Athletics to the 1905 AL pennant and was a key figure in popularizing strikeouts as a thrilling part of the game.
Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1946, Waddell remains one of the game's most fascinating and gifted early stars.
Waddell's Awards and Records
- Triple Crown (1905)
- AL wins leader (1905)
- 2× ERA leader (1900, 1905)
- 6× AL strikeout leader (1902–1907)
- Philadelphia Baseball Wall of Fame
- Athletics Hall of Fame
- Inducted into National Baseball Hall of Fame (1946)
- 349 Strikeouts in 1904 (MLB single-season record until 1965)
- 4× 20-Win Seasons
- Career ERA of 2.16 (Top 15 all-time)
- Helped Philadelphia A’s win 1905 AL Pennant
- Known for his wild personality and unmatched strikeout ability
- One of the first pitchers to be a fan attraction
MLB Teams:
Louisville Colonels (1897, 1899)
Pittsburgh Pirates (1900–1901)
Chicago Orphans (1901)
Philadelphia Athletics (1902–1907)
St. Louis Browns (1908–1910)
MLB Stats
Seasons:
13 (1897–1910)
Games Played:
407
Wins–Losses:
193–143
ERA:
2.16
Strikeouts:
2,316
Complete Games:
261
Shutouts:
50
Innings Pitched:
2,961.1
Sam Crawford
Inducted:
1957
Player Details
6-0, 190lb (183cm, 86kg)
Born:
April 18, 1880
Wahoo, Nebraska, U.S.
Died:
June 15, 1968
Hollywood, California, U.S.
Position:
Right fielder
College:
NA
Sam “Wahoo Sam” Crawford was one of the deadliest hitters of baseball’s dead-ball era, known for his gap power, consistency, and unmatched triples total. Debuting in 1899, Crawford played 19 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds and Detroit Tigers, forming a legendary outfield duo with Ty Cobb. He led the American League in RBIs three times and batted over .300 in 11 seasons.
Crawford’s most iconic achievement is his MLB career record for triples (309) — a mark that still stands today. A smart baserunner and a feared power hitter of his time, he played in three consecutive World Series with Detroit from 1907 to 1909. After retiring in 1917 with 2,961 hits, Crawford remained respected for his influence on the game’s early growth. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1957, forever recognized as one of the game's great early sluggers.
Crawford's Awards and Records
- 2× Home run leader (1901, 1908)
- 3× AL RBI leader (1910, 1914, 1915)
- MLB record 309 career triples
- Name honored by the Tigers
- Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame
MLB Records
- Holds the MLB all-time record for career triples – 309
- Only player in MLB history with over 300 career triples
- Led American League in RBIs three times – 1910, 1914, 1915
- Recorded 11 seasons batting .300 or better during the dead-ball era
- Played alongside Ty Cobb for 13 seasons, forming one of the most famous outfield duos
- Played in 3 consecutive World Series with the Detroit Tigers – 1907, 1908, 1909
MLB Teams:
Cincinnati Reds (1899–1902)
Detroit Tigers (1903–1917)
MLB Stats
Seasons:
19 (1899–1917)
Games Played:
2,517
Hits:
2,961
Batting Average:
.309
Home Runs:
97
RBIs:
1,525
Runs:
1,391
Triples:
309 (MLB record)
Stolen Bases:
366
Sports Fan Products
MLB Hall of Fame
The MLB Hall of Fame is a revered institution dedicated to honoring the greatest contributions to baseball. Located in Cooperstown, New York, it serves as a shrine to the game's rich history and the legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the field. Each year, the Hall of Fame holds an induction ceremony that celebrates the newest members of its prestigious ranks, commonly referred to as the Hall of Fame class.
These ceremonies are significant events in the baseball calendar, drawing fans, players, and media worldwide to witness the acknowledgment of baseball's finest. The inductees are celebrated for their remarkable career achievements, which include outstanding statistics, memorable performances, and contributions that have shaped the game. The Hall recognizes players, managers, umpires, and contributors who have significantly impacted the sport.
Among the many iconic moments celebrated within the Hall are record-breaking home runs, historic games, and unforgettable plays that have become a part of baseball lore. Each inductee's journey to the Hall is a testament to their skill, perseverance, and dedication to the sport. The Hall of Fame also outlines the eligibility criteria, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
Visitors to the Hall can explore exhibits featuring historical contributions from various eras of baseball, showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that tell the game's story. From famous inductees like Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson to the more recent stars, the Hall preserves the legacy of these athletes, allowing future generations to appreciate their greatness.
In addition to the exhibits, the Hall of Fame hosts numerous events throughout the year, including educational programs and community outreach initiatives, to foster a love for baseball among young fans. The memorable speeches during induction ceremonies often reflect on the inductees' journeys, the challenges they faced, and their impact on their teams and the sport.
Ultimately, the MLB Hall of Fame celebrates excellence in baseball, a place where the past is remembered and the future is inspired. It is a vital part of baseball culture, ensuring that the stories of its greatest players are never forgotten and continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
