Tony Boeckel

From BR Bullpen

Norman Doxie Boeckel

Bats Right, Throws Right
Weight 175 lb.

Debut July 23, 1917
Final Game October 6, 1923
Born August 25, 1892 in Los Angeles, CA USA
Died February 16, 1924 in Torrey Pines, CA USA

[edit] Biographical Information

Tony Boeckel had a six-year career in the major leagues before he died prematurely. For a third baseman, he was a pretty good hitter. He was adequate defensively, and had his best offensive year in 1921 when he hit .312 with 13 triples, 10 home runs, and 20 stolen bases. His 84 RBI were also among the league leaders.

He was the same age as teammate Billy Southworth. The two of them were among the better hitters on the Braves from 1921-23.

While driving on February 15, 1924, Boeckel was involved in a collision with a truck. After leaving his vehicle, he was struck by a passing car and died the next day. He was the first active major leaguer to die in an automobile accident. Heinie Reitz had been the first such former major leaguer. Art Allison was a pedestrian when he was struck and killed by a truck while trying to cross a street in heavy snow in 1916.