Walker Cooper
From BR Bullpen
William Walker Cooper (Walk)
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 3", Weight 210 lb.
- Debut September 25, 1940
- Final Game September 20, 1957
- Born January 8, 1915 in Atherton, MO USA
- Died April 11, 1991 in Scottsdale, AZ USA
[edit] Biographical Information
Eight time All-Star Walker Cooper was one of baseball's top catchers of the 1940s. He began his big league career with the St. Louis Cardinals, hitting .300 in three World Series from 1942 to 1944.
During World War II, Cooper entered the Navy in May 1945. While he was still in the Navy, the New York Giants paid $175,000 to buy his contract. He was discharged in April 1946 and had his best big league season for the Giants the following year, hitting .305 with 35 home runs.
Cooper was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in June 1949 and less than a month later, on July 7th, set the Reds record for most productive game at the plate. In that game against the Chicago Cubs, he had six hits: three homers, two doubles, and a single (15 total bases and 10 RBIs).
Cooper later spent time with the Boston Braves, Milwaukee Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago Cubs before ending his career as a player/coach with the Cardinals. He was also later a member of the 1960 Kansas City Athletics coaching staff.
Walker was the brother of Mort Cooper and father-in-law of Don Blasingame.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 8-time NL All-Star (1942-1944 & 1946-1950)
- 20-Home Run Seasons: 2 (1947 & 1949)
- 30-Home Run Seasons: 1 (1947)
- 100 RBI Seasons: 1 (1947)
- Won two World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals (1942 & 1944)
