Russ Van Atta
From BR Bullpen
Russell Van Atta (Sheriff)
- Bats Left, Throws Left
- Height 6' 0", Weight 184 lb.
- School Pennsylvania State University
- Debut April 25, 1933
- Final Game May 11, 1939
- Born June 21, 1906 in Augusta, NJ USA
- Died October 10, 1986 in Andover, NJ USA
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[edit] Biographical Information
Russ Van Atta had an amazing Major League debut: he not only shut out the Washington Senators 16-0, he also went 4-4 at the plate. During the winter of 1934, he injured his hand by cutting it and was limited to relief (with some spot-starts) for the rest of his career.
His body was laid to rest in Frankford Plains Cemetery in Newton, NJ.
[edit] Uniform Numbers
- New York Yankees, 1933-1935: 14
- St. Louis Browns, 1935: 19
- St. Louis Browns, 1936-1939: 21
[edit] Other Facts
Van Atta's 4 hit first game ties an AL record for the most hits in a 9 inning Major League debut. He's tied with six other players, including Kirby Puckett. The NL record is 5, held by Fred Clarke.
