Larry Gilbert is one of the leading figures in the history of New Orleans baseball. While his major-league career was brief, he later became one of the most successful minor-league managers ever. Gilbert played for the Boston Braves in 1914 and 1915, but his managing career lasted until 1948. Lawrence William Gilbert was born in … Continue reading Grave Story: Larry Gilbert (1891-1965)
Here lies William "Heinie" Heltzel, who had a 13-year career in professional baseball that included a couple of stops in the major leagues during World War II. Heltzel, a shortstop and third baseman, played for the Boston Braves (1943) and Philadelphia Phillies (1944). William Wade Heltzel was born in York, Pa., on December 21, 1913. … Continue reading Grave Story: Heinie Heltzel (1913-1998)
RIP to Del Crandall, an 11-time All-Star, a 4-time Gold Glove catcher, and the last surviving member of the Boston Braves organization. He died on May 5 in Mission Viejo, Cal., at the age of 91. He had been suffering from Parkinson's disease and, as of this 2020 article, was living in an assisted living … Continue reading Obituary: Del Crandall (1930-2021)
RIP to Bert Thiel, who pitched in 4 games for the Boston Braves in 1952. He died at his home in Pella, Wis., on July 31 at the age of 96. Thiel was one of two surviving members of the Boston Braves -- Del Crandall being the other. Maynard Bert Thiel was born in Marian, … Continue reading Obituary: Bert Thiel (1926-2020)
RIP to Johnny Antonelli, an All-Star pitcher and World Series who bridged the era between the New York and San Francisco Giants. He died on Feb. 28 at the age of 89. Antonelli pitched for the Boston/Milwaukee Braves (1948-50, 1953, 1961), New York/San Francisco Giants (1954-1960) and Cleveland Indians (1961). News of his passing hit … Continue reading Obituary: Johnny Antonelli (1930-2020)
Here lies Ernie Johnson, a beloved member of the Atlanta Braves family. In his playing days, he was a pretty good relief pitcher. However, he made his fame as an announcer for the Atlanta Braves for decades, taking Braves fandom nationwide thanks to the TBS superstation. Johnson played for the Boston/Milwaukee Braves (1950, 1952-58) and … Continue reading Grave Story: Ernie Johnson (1924-2011)
Here lies Red Lucas, a consistent starting pitcher for 16 years in the major leagues. His real claim to fame, though, came with a bat – Lucas is one of the best pinch hitters in baseball history. Lucas played for the New York Giants (1923), Boston Braves (1924-25), Cincinnati Reds (1926-33) and Pittsburgh Pirates (1935-38). … Continue reading Grave Story: Red Lucas (1902-1986)
Here lies Bobby Reis, who started his career as a third baseman and ended it as a pitcher/jack of all trades. He played every single position on the diamond in his 6-year career in the majors. Reis played for the Brooklyn Dodgers (1931-32, 1935) and Boston Braves (1936-38). Bobby Reis was born on January 2, … Continue reading Grave Story: Bobby Reis (1909-1973)
Here lies Otis Clymer, a speedy outfielder who played for four teams in the majors and several championship teams in the minors. He played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1905-07), Washington Senators (1907-09), Chicago Cubs (1913) and Boston Braves (1913). Otis Edgar Clymer was born in Pine Grove, Pa., on January 27, 1876. His professional debut … Continue reading Grave Story: Otis Clymer (1876-1926)
RIP to Clint Conatser, an outfielder who was one of the last surviving members of the Boston Braves. He died on August 23 at the age of 98. Conatser played for the Braves from 1948-49. Clinton Astor Conatser was born in Los Angeles on July 24, 1921. His SABR bio notes that he grew up … Continue reading Obituary: Clint Conatser (1921-2019)
RIP Baseball 