Bobby Shantz Biography

Robert Clayton Shantz, born on September 26, 1925, was an American professional baseball player who pitched left-handed in Major League Baseball. Shantz competed in MLB from 1949 to 1964 and earned the 1952 American League Most Valuable Player Award while playing for the Philadelphia Athletics. He was selected as an All-Star on three occasions, secured eight straight Gold Glove Awards, and captured a World Series title with the 1958 New York Yankees. Initially a starting pitcher, Shantz transitioned to a relief role during his career and performed effectively in that capacity. Standing 5 feet 6 inches tall, he compiled a career record of 119 wins, 99 losses, and a 3.38 earned run average. Shantz made his MLB debut on May 1, 1949, pitching a fraction of an inning in relief for the Athletics. On August 5, 1952, a crowd of 35,000 fans attended Shibe Park to witness Shantz secure his 20th victory of the season.