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Marty Bergen
From BR Bullpen
Martin Bergen
- Bats Unknown, Throws Right
- Height 5' 10", Weight 170 lb.
- Debut April 17, 1896
- Final Game October 15, 1899
- Born October 25, 1871 in North Brookfield, MA USA
- Died January 19, 1900 in North Brookfield, MA USA
[edit] Biographical Information
"Martin Bergen is a kingpin of catchers." - a sportswriter in 1898
Catcher Marty Bergen played four seasons in the major leagues for the Boston Beaneaters. The Beaneaters during that time were always over .500 and won the pennant in both 1897-98. Marty was the starting catcher all four years, known for his top defense.
He was playing in the minors by 1892.
He died in 1900 after slitting his throat with a razor. Before his suicide, he murdered his wife and two children with an ax. His problems with mental health were evident years before, as he accused and fought with his teammates, who hoped he would not return to the team after 1899.
He was from North Brookfield, MA, and played on an amateur team with Connie Mack, also a resident there. Mack later tried to draft him when Mack was manager at Pittsburgh but the contract was voided.
He had hip problems during his career and underwent an operation in January 1899.
He was the brother of Bill Bergen.
A main source: SABR biography of Marty Bergen.
[edit] Records Held
- Passed balls, catcher, season (since 1893), 38, 1898
