Fan mail address
Bobby Shantz
152 E Mount Pleasant Avenue
Ambler, PA 19002-4209
USA
Address information
(Home Address)
152 E Mount Pleasant Avenue
Ambler, PA 19002-4209
USA
Bobby Shantz, born September 26, 1925, in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, is a former Major League Baseball pitcher known for his remarkable skill, versatility, and resilience on the mound despite his small stature (5’6″ and around 139 pounds). Shantz’s career, which spanned from 1949 to 1964, was defined by his impressive control, agility, and adaptability, making him one of the most respected and admired pitchers of his era. Shantz played for several teams, but he made his biggest mark with the Philadelphia Athletics, where he won the 1952 American League MVP award, and later with the New York Yankees as a member of their championship roster.
Shantz made his MLB debut on May 1, 1949, with the Philadelphia Athletics, where he quickly established himself as a reliable and skilled pitcher. In an era dominated by larger, power-oriented players, Shantz stood out for his ability to mix speeds, locate his pitches with pinpoint precision, and use his fielding prowess to handle bunts and ground balls. He was known for his effective curveball and excellent control, which allowed him to compete at a high level despite his small frame. His talent was fully realized in the 1952 season, a career-defining year when he posted an extraordinary 24–7 win-loss record, a 2.48 ERA, and led the American League with 27 complete games.
That season, Shantz not only led the league in victories but also earned the American League MVP award, becoming the first pitcher to receive the honor since 1945. His performance in 1952 brought him national recognition, and he was celebrated for his tenacity, skill, and sportsmanship. However, his career was soon impacted by injuries, particularly to his shoulder, which caused him to miss parts of the 1953 and 1954 seasons. Despite these setbacks, Shantz continued to adapt his style, becoming an even more crafty and deceptive pitcher in the later stages of his career.
