Johnny Lipon, born John Joseph Lipon on November 10, 1922, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, embarked on a baseball journey that spanned nearly three decades. His career began in the minor leagues, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of major league scouts. Lipon made his major league debut with the Detroit Tigers on June 18, 1942. As a shortstop, he quickly became known for his defensive abilities and consistent play.
Lipon's career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the United States Navy. After the war, he returned to the Tigers and resumed his baseball career. He played with the Tigers until 1952, during which time he was a regular fixture in their infield. Lipon was known for his steady glove and ability to make contact at the plate, although he was not a power hitter.
In 1952, Lipon was traded to the Boston Red Sox, where he continued to play as a shortstop and second baseman. His tenure with the Red Sox was brief, and he was soon traded to the St. Louis Browns in 1953. Lipon's time with the Browns was also short-lived, as he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds later that year. He finished his major league playing career with the Reds in 1954.
After his playing days in the majors ended, Lipon continued to play in the minor leagues for several more years. He transitioned into a managerial role, beginning with the minor league teams in the Detroit Tigers organization. Lipon managed various minor league teams from the late 1950s through the 1970s, including stints with the Montgomery Rebels, Denver Bears, and Toledo Mud Hens. His managerial career was marked by his ability to develop young talent and his deep understanding of the game.
In addition to managing, Lipon also served as a coach at the major league level. He worked as a coach for the Cleveland Indians and the Kansas City Royals, bringing his wealth of experience and knowledge to the teams. Lipon's career in baseball, both as a player and a manager, was characterized by his dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt to different roles within the game.
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