Jack Aker

From BR Bullpen

Jackie Delane Aker

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 2", Weight 190 lb.
• School College of the Sequoias
• Debut May 3, 1964
• Final Game September 27, 1974
• Born July 13, 1940 in Tulare, CA USA

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[edit] Biographical Information

Originally signed by the Kansas City Athletics as an outfielder, Jack Aker (pronounced "ache-er") was converted to a pitcher before making his big league debut in 1964. He quickly became a vital part of the Kansas City bullpen and in 1966 was named Fireman of the Year by The Sporting News after posting a 1.99 ERA and 32 saves (a record at the time).

Aker was selected by the Seattle Pilots in the 1968 Expansion Draft but was soon traded to the New York Yankees. He later also played for the Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets, but ultimately chronic back pain took its toll, and he played in his final big league game in 1974.

During his career, Aker pitched in 495 big league games, all in relief. Pitching mostly on mediocre to bad teams, he never got into post-season play. He primarily wore number 23 (with the Athletics and Pilots) and number 22 (with the Yankees and Mets).

After his playing career ended, Aker was a minor league manager and a Cleveland Indians coach from 1985 to 1987. He currently runs a baseball camp in the New York/New Jersey area. Nicknamed "Chief" because of his American Indian heritage, he also offers free baseball clinics to Native American youth in the southwest U.S.

Jack's son Matt Aker has coached college ball.

[edit] Notable Achievement

• AL Reliever of the Year Award Winner (1966)
• AL Saves Leader (1966)
• 30 Saves Seasons: 1 (1966)

[edit] Year-by-Year Managerial Record

[edit] Related Sites

• Jack Aker Baseball