Ira Thomas
From BR Bullpen
Ira Felix Thomas
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 2", Weight 200 lb.
- Debut May 18, 1906
- Final Game June 18, 1915
- Born January 22, 1881 in Ballston Spa, NY USA
- Died October 11, 1958 in Philadelphia, PA USA
[edit] Biographical Information
Ira Thomas was the first successful pinch hitter in the history of the World Series. While playing for the Detroit Tigers, he stroked a single while batting for Charley O'Leary against the Chicago Cubs' Mordecai "Three Finger" Brown in the 9th inning of Game One of the 1908 World Series.
He was a catcher for the Philadelphia Athletics during the time of the $100,000 infield.
After he retired, Thomas coached Williams College from 1914-1919. He then became a Philadelphia Athletics coach and manager Connie Mack's chief scout. He recommended several players, most notably Lefty Grove and George Earnshaw to the Athletics.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- Won three World Series with the Philadelphia Athletics (1910, 1911 & 1913 - he did not play in the 1913 World Series)
