Hazen Shirley "Kiki" Cuyler, born on August 30, 1898, in Harrisville, Michigan, became one of the most dynamic outfielders in Major League Baseball during the early 20th century. His career began in the minor leagues, where he played for the Bay City Wolves and the Nashville Volunteers, showcasing his potential as a talented player. Cuyler's performance caught the attention of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who brought him to the majors.

Cuyler made his major league debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1921. However, it wasn't until 1924 that he became a regular in the lineup. That year, he batted .354, establishing himself as a formidable hitter. His speed on the bases and in the outfield quickly became his trademark. In 1925, Cuyler played a crucial role in leading the Pirates to a World Series victory against the Washington Senators. His performance in the series, particularly his game-winning hit in Game 7, cemented his reputation as a clutch player.

Despite his success, Cuyler's time with the Pirates was not without challenges. He had a contentious relationship with manager Donie Bush, which ultimately led to his trade to the Chicago Cubs in 1928. With the Cubs, Cuyler continued to excel, consistently hitting over .300 and stealing bases with ease. His best season with the Cubs came in 1930 when he batted .355 and drove in 134 runs. Cuyler's efforts helped the Cubs reach the World Series in 1929, although they fell to the Philadelphia Athletics.

Cuyler's tenure with the Cubs lasted until 1935, during which he remained a vital part of their lineup. In 1932, he once again found himself in the World Series, this time against the New York Yankees. Although the Cubs were swept, Cuyler's performance was a bright spot in the series. His ability to perform under pressure was a testament to his skill and experience.

In 1936, Cuyler joined the Cincinnati Reds, where he played for two seasons. Although his performance began to decline due to age and injuries, he still managed to contribute to the team. Cuyler's final major league season was with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1938, after which he retired from playing.

Throughout his career, Cuyler was known for his exceptional speed and base-running ability. He led the National League in stolen bases four times and finished his career with 328 stolen bases. His lifetime batting average of .321 reflects his consistent ability to hit for average. Cuyler was also selected to the National League All-Star team in 1934, further highlighting his status as one of the top players of his era.

After retiring as a player, Cuyler remained involved in baseball, serving as a coach for several teams, including the Cubs and the Boston Red Sox. His knowledge of the game and experience made him a valuable asset in these roles.

Kiki Cuyler's legacy was solidified when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1968.

⚾