Ray Boone
From BR Bullpen
Raymond Otis Boone (Ike)
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 1", Weight 188 lb.
- Debut September 3, 1948
- Final Game August 11, 1960
- Born July 27, 1923 in San Diego, CA USA
- Died October 17, 2004 in San Diego, CA USA
[edit] Biographical Information
The father of Bob Boone (and minor leaguer Rod Boone), grandfather of Bret Boone and Aaron Boone (and minor leaguer Matt Boone), Ray Boone is the patriarch of the only family that has three generations who made an All-Star Game, played in the World Series, and hit 100 career home runs.
Ray started as a catcher in the minors, then at shortstop for the Indians. Trying to replace Lou Boudreau at SS was difficult, and he was traded to the Tigers where he had several very productive seasons at third base, including leading the league in RBIs in 1955. Converted to first base at the end of his career, he wound up playing later with the White Sox and Braves. Considered one of the handsomest men in the majors during his career. A tough clutch hitter who lead the A.L. with 116 RBI in 1955. Blessed with a good eye at the plate, Boone was not easy to strike out and finished his career with a higher than average OBP. From 1953-57, Boone was arguably one of the best overall Tiger 3rd-basemen of the past century.
He missed the 1943-1945 seasons due to military service.
After his playing career, Boone was a longtime scout for the Boston Red Sox, signing Curt Schilling among others.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 2-time AL All-Star (1954 & 1956)
- AL RBI Leader (1955)
- 20-Home Run Seasons: 4 (1953-1956)
- 100 RBI Seasons: 2 (1953 & 1955)
- Won a World Series with the Cleveland Indians in 1948
