Ralph Winegarner - Biography - RetroSeasons.com

Ralph Winegarner's journey through the world of baseball began in the early 1930s. Born on October 29, 1909, in Benton, Arkansas, Winegarner found his way into the major leagues as a pitcher and an occasional outfielder. His career in Major League Baseball (MLB) was primarily with the Cleveland Indians, where he played from 1930 to 1936, and later with the St. Louis Browns in 1938.

Winegarner's debut in the major leagues came with the Cleveland Indians. As a right-handed pitcher, he demonstrated a solid ability to contribute to his team's efforts on the mound. During his time with the Indians, Winegarner's pitching statistics included a win-loss record of 8-11, an earned run average (ERA) of 5.33, and 58 strikeouts. While these numbers might not have placed him among the elite pitchers of his era, they reflect his role as a reliable player who could be called upon when needed.

In addition to his pitching duties, Winegarner occasionally took on the role of an outfielder. This dual capability was not uncommon during that period, as teams often sought to maximize the utility of their players. His batting average during his MLB career was .274, with 5 home runs and 55 runs batted in (RBIs). These statistics indicate that while he was primarily a pitcher, he could also contribute offensively when required.

After his stint with the Indians, Winegarner spent some time in the minor leagues, which was a common path for many players of his era. He returned to the major leagues briefly with the St. Louis Browns in 1938. However, his time with the Browns was short-lived, and he did not achieve the same level of involvement as he had with the Indians.

Following his major league career, Winegarner continued to play in the minor leagues, extending his involvement in professional baseball into the late 1940s. His post-major league career included playing for teams such as the Toledo Mud Hens and the Milwaukee Brewers, which were part of the American Association, a high-level minor league at the time. This phase of his career allowed him to continue playing the game he loved, even if it was outside the spotlight of the major leagues.

Ralph Winegarner's career in baseball reflects the journey of many players during the early to mid-20th century. While he may not have achieved superstar status, his ability to pitch and play in the outfield provided value to the teams he was part of. His time in both the major and minor leagues showcases the diverse paths players took during this era, contributing to the rich tapestry of baseball history.