Luke Appling, affectionately known as "Old Aches and Pains," was a remarkable figure in the world of baseball, primarily remembered for his time with the Chicago White Sox. Born on April 2, 1907, in High Point, North Carolina, Appling's journey to the major leagues began at Oglethorpe University, where his baseball prowess caught the attention of professional scouts. He signed with the Southern Association's Atlanta Crackers in 1930, and his performance there quickly led to his acquisition by the Chicago White Sox.

Appling's major league debut came on September 10, 1930, with the White Sox, marking the beginning of a long and storied career. Known for his exceptional batting skills, Appling was a shortstop who consistently demonstrated an uncanny ability to get on base. Over his 20-year career with the White Sox, he achieved a lifetime batting average of .310, a testament to his skill at the plate. His keen eye and disciplined approach made him a tough out for any pitcher.

One of Appling's most memorable seasons came in 1936 when he won the American League batting title with an impressive .388 average. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as it was the highest batting average for a shortstop in the 20th century until that point. Appling's ability to hit for average, combined with his defensive skills, earned him seven All-Star selections throughout his career.

Despite his nickname, "Old Aches and Pains," which he earned due to his frequent complaints about minor injuries, Appling was remarkably durable. He played in over 2,400 games, amassing more than 2,700 hits, 1,116 runs batted in, and 1,319 runs scored. His consistency and reliability made him a cornerstone of the White Sox lineup for two decades.

Appling's career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the United States Army from 1944 to 1945. Upon returning to baseball, he continued to perform at a high level, demonstrating the same batting prowess that had defined his pre-war years. His longevity in the sport was further highlighted when, at the age of 43, he hit a home run in an Old-Timers' Game at Yankee Stadium, a feat that delighted fans and showcased his enduring talent.

After retiring as a player in 1950, Appling transitioned to coaching and managing, sharing his extensive knowledge of the game with younger players. He served as a coach for several teams, including the Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians, and Baltimore Orioles. His managerial career included stints in the minor leagues, where he continued to influence the game from the dugout.

In recognition of his outstanding career, Luke Appling was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964.

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