Hall of Fame second baseman and manager who won three World Series championships and was known for his speed and aggressive playing style.
Frankie Frisch, nicknamed the Fordham Flash or the Old Flash, is renowned for his exceptional baseball career as a second baseman and manager, earning him a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum.
Born on September 9, 1897, in The Bronx, New York City, Frisch attended Fordham Preparatory School, graduating in 1916. He then went on to Fordham University, where he excelled in four sports: baseball, football, basketball, and track. His remarkable speed earned him the nickname the Fordham Flash.
In 1919, Frisch left Fordham to sign with the New York Giants of the National League, jumping directly into the majors without playing in the minor leagues. He made an immediate impact, finishing third in the NL in stolen bases and seventh in RBI in 1920, his first full season. Frisch's impressive performance led Manager John McGraw to name him team captain, advising him on baserunning and hitting.
Frisch played for the New York Giants from 1919 to 1926 and the St. Louis Cardinals from 1927 to 1937. During his time with the Giants, he won two World Series championships in 1921 and 1922 and led the National League in hits in 1923 and runs in 1924. He was also an expert fielder and a skilled baserunner, leading the National League with 48 steals in 1921.
Frisch went on to manage the St. Louis Cardinals from 1933 to 1938, the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1940 to 1946, and the Chicago Cubs from 1949 to 1951. During his managerial career, he led the Cardinals to a World Series championship in 1934.
Frisch's impressive baseball career and managerial achievements have left a lasting impact on the sport. He was known for his fiery competitiveness, exceptional fielding skills, and ability to lead his teams to victory. Frisch's legacy continues to inspire baseball players and fans alike, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
Frisch passed away on March 12, 1973, but his legacy lives on through his numerous achievements and contributions to the world of baseball.
Born in 1896
A legendary baseball figure who dominated the game as a player, coach, and manager, earning two MVP awards and setting numerous records, including the highest single-season batting average. He's a iconic figure in baseball history, known for his impressive skills and innovative coaching style.
Born in 1920
Legendary baseball player and manager who won three World Series championships and was a 24-time All-Star, known for his consistent hitting and iconic stance.
Born in 1916
Hall of Fame right fielder and manager known for his clutch hitting and aggressive base running, helping the St. Louis Cardinals win the 1946 World Series.
Born in 1910
A charismatic baseball pitcher and broadcaster known for his folksy, humorous commentary and impressive pitching career, including four All-Star appearances and a World Series championship.
Born in 1896
A four-time National League All-Star catcher and manager who led the St. Louis Cardinals to a World Series championship in 1926. He was known for his strong defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Born in 1893
Pitcher and coach who won 210 games and was a key member of the St. Louis Cardinals' Gashouse Gang team that won the 1931 World Series. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1970.
Born in 1905
Notorious for his fiery personality and innovative managerial tactics, he led the Brooklyn Dodgers to a National League pennant in 1941 and later won a World Series with the New York Giants in 1954.
Born in 1881
Pioneering baseball executive who developed the farm system and broke baseball's color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson, revolutionizing the sport.
