Fred Haney's journey through the world of baseball spanned several decades, during which he wore many hats, from player to manager to executive. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Haney grew up in Los Angeles, California, where he developed a love for the game. His professional playing career began in the early 1920s, when he joined the Detroit Tigers as a third baseman. Haney's time as a player in Major League Baseball (MLB) also included stints with the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals. Although his playing career was relatively modest, with a batting average of .275 over parts of seven seasons, it laid the foundation for his later roles in the sport.

Transitioning from player to manager, Haney found his true calling. He began managing in the minor leagues, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation for his strategic acumen. His managerial career in the majors began with the St. Louis Browns in 1939. However, it was with the Milwaukee Braves that Haney achieved his greatest success as a manager. Taking the helm in 1956, he led the Braves to a World Series championship in 1957, defeating the New York Yankees. Under his leadership, the Braves also won the National League pennant in 1958, although they fell to the Yankees in the World Series that year.

Haney's managerial style was characterized by his ability to manage diverse personalities and his strategic use of the bullpen, which was innovative for the time. He was known for his calm demeanor and ability to inspire confidence in his players. His tenure with the Braves ended in 1959, but his influence on the team was lasting, as he had helped to develop a roster that included future Hall of Famers like Hank Aaron and Eddie Mathews.

After his managerial career, Haney continued to be involved in baseball as an executive. He served as the general manager of the Los Angeles Angels, where he played a role in building the team during its early years in the American League. His experience and knowledge of the game were invaluable in shaping the Angels' roster and organizational structure.

Throughout his career, Fred Haney was known for his adaptability and understanding of the game. His ability to transition from player to manager to executive demonstrated his comprehensive knowledge of baseball and his ability to thrive in various roles within the sport.

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