Eddie Yost, known affectionately as "The Walking Man," was a third baseman whose career in Major League Baseball spanned nearly two decades. Born on October 13, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, Yost developed a reputation for his exceptional ability to draw walks, a skill that would define his career and earn him a unique place in baseball history.

Yost began his professional career with the Washington Senators, making his debut in 1944 at the age of 17. His early years in the league were interrupted by military service during World War II, but he returned to the Senators in 1946. Over the next several seasons, Yost established himself as a reliable presence at third base and a master of plate discipline. His keen eye and patience at the plate allowed him to lead the American League in walks six times during his career.

Throughout the late 1940s and into the 1950s, Yost was a fixture in the Senators' lineup. Despite playing for a team that often struggled in the standings, he consistently posted impressive on-base percentages, a testament to his ability to get on base through walks. In 1950, Yost achieved a career-high 141 walks, a remarkable feat that underscored his proficiency in this aspect of the game.

In addition to his prowess at drawing walks, Yost was also known for his defensive skills at third base. He led the league in assists for third basemen multiple times, showcasing his reliability and strong arm. His defensive capabilities, combined with his offensive discipline, made him a valuable player for the Senators.

After spending 14 seasons with Washington, Yost was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 1959. His tenure with the Tigers was marked by continued success in getting on base, and he provided veteran leadership to the team. In 1960, Yost led the league in walks for the final time in his career, demonstrating that his skills had not diminished with age.

Yost's career took another turn in 1961 when he joined the Los Angeles Angels, an expansion team in the American League. As one of the more experienced players on the roster, he played a crucial role in helping to establish the fledgling franchise. Yost's time with the Angels was brief, but he left a lasting impression on the team and its fans.

In 1962, Yost retired from playing, but his involvement in baseball continued. He transitioned into coaching, serving as a coach for several teams, including the New York Mets and the Washington Senators (later the Texas Rangers). His knowledge of the game and his ability to mentor younger players made him a respected figure in the coaching ranks.

Eddie Yost's career statistics reflect his unique approach to the game. He finished with a .254 batting average, 139 home runs, and 683 RBIs. However, it was his 1,614 walks that truly set him apart, ranking him among the all-time leaders in that category. His ability to get on base and his defensive reliability made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.

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