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Dick Sisler, born on November 2, 1920, in St. Louis, Missouri, was a professional baseball player and manager, known for his time in Major League Baseball (MLB) as both a player and a coach. The son of Hall of Famer George Sisler, Dick grew up in a baseball-centric environment, which undoubtedly influenced his path in the sport.
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Dick Sisler, born on November 2, 1920, in St. Louis, Missouri, was a professional baseball player and manager, known for his time in Major League Baseball (MLB) as both a player and a coach. The son of Hall of Famer George Sisler, Dick grew up in a baseball-centric environment, which undoubtedly influenced his path in the sport.
Sisler began his MLB playing career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1946. As a left-handed batter and right-handed thrower, he primarily played as a first baseman and outfielder. During his rookie season, Sisler contributed to the Cardinals' success, helping them secure the National League pennant. Although his batting average was modest, his presence in the lineup added depth to the team.
In 1948, Sisler was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, where he would experience one of the most memorable moments of his career. The 1950 season proved to be a highlight for Sisler and the Phillies, as the team, known as the "Whiz Kids," clinched the National League pennant. Sisler's performance was instrumental in the final game of the season against the Brooklyn Dodgers. On October 1, 1950, he hit a dramatic three-run home run in the top of the 10th inning, which secured the Phillies' victory and their first pennant in 35 years. This home run became a defining moment in Phillies history and is often remembered by fans and historians alike.
Following his time with the Phillies, Sisler played for the Cincinnati Reds from 1952 to 1953. His playing career concluded with a brief return to the Cardinals in 1952. Over his MLB career, Sisler compiled a batting average of .276, with 55 home runs and 360 runs batted in. While his statistics may not have been extraordinary, his contributions to his teams were valued, particularly during the Phillies' 1950 pennant-winning season.
After retiring as a player, Sisler transitioned into coaching and managing. He served as a coach for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and the St. Louis Cardinals. His managerial career began with the Reds, where he took on the role of manager in 1964. Although his tenure as a manager was brief, Sisler's knowledge of the game and leadership qualities were respected by players and colleagues.
Throughout his career, Sisler was known for his professionalism and dedication to the sport.
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When Sporting News halted printing of the long running Sporting News Record Book in 1942, they replaced it with the...
/ When Sporting News halted printing of the long running Sporting News Record Book in 1942, they replaced it with the Sporting News Guide in 1943, a companion publication to the Sporting News Register, which began publication in 1940. After A.S Barnes stopped publication of their guide (successor to the long-running Spalding Baseball Guide), the Sporting News Guide became the official MLB guide.
Who's Who in Major League Baseball is a statistician's dream because it featured the major and minor league statistics of...
/ Who's Who in Major League Baseball is a statistician's dream because it featured the major and minor league statistics of the major league players for that particular year.
This annual publication was available through the mail and at most major league stadiums. Its decline in popularity is said to be a result of the competition from team yearbooks.
Who's Who covers generally contain photos of the top four stars of the previous year. Each edition featured photos and sketches of sports team top twenty players. A world champion photo usually appeared on the back cover of Who's Who in Major League Baseball while the other league champions appeared on the front cover.
When Sporting News halted printing of the long running Sporting News Record Book in 1942, they replaced it with the...
/ When Sporting News halted printing of the long running Sporting News Record Book in 1942, they replaced it with the Sporting News Guide in 1943, a companion publication to the Sporting News Register, which began publication in 1940. After A.S Barnes stopped publication of their guide (successor to the long-running Spalding Baseball Guide), the Sporting News Guide became the official MLB guide.
The 1942 edition was devoted entirely to major league playing records as compiled by Leonard Gettelson. ONE FOR THE BOOK,...
/ The 1942 edition was devoted entirely to major league playing records as compiled by Leonard Gettelson. ONE FOR THE BOOK, which was first published in 1949, was a continuation of the 1942 Dope Book.
There was at least one "Al Schracht Dope Book" Published by Sporting News in 1944. This edition consisted of dozens of colorful short news snippets with cartoon illustrations, followed by statistics and writeups of current Hall of Famers and past World Series'.
The Dope Book from 1948 thru 1985 was of an entirely different format. It featured a wide spectrum of articles and statistics. Several features, such as Club Rosters and All Star Game Records, were carried yearly for many years.
