Births on January 7

Fred Whitfield, American baseball player (d. 2013)

Fred Dwight Whitfield: A Distinguished Career in Major League Baseball

Fred Dwight Whitfield, born on January 7, 1938, and passing on January 31, 2013, was a prominent American professional baseball player. Primarily recognized for his role as a first baseman, Whitfield showcased his talents in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1962 to 1970. His career was most notably spent with the Cleveland Indians, where he achieved his peak performance, though he also contributed to the St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, and Montreal Expos. Affectionately nicknamed "Wingy" – a moniker derived from his distinctive and somewhat unconventional throwing motion – Whitfield was a left-handed thrower and batter. His athletic build, standing 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) tall and weighing 190 pounds (86 kilograms), was well-suited for the demands of playing first base, a position requiring both defensive agility and offensive power.

Early Life and Family Roots

Fred Whitfield’s journey began in Vandiver, Alabama, a tight-knit community located in Shelby County. Born on January 7, 1938, he was one of four children to William Theodore and Inez Clarice (Brasher) Whitfield. His early education and formative years were spent attending Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama, a city renowned for producing athletic talent. At the age of 19, Whitfield embarked on a lifelong partnership, marrying Helen Leverton of Gadsden, Alabama, on February 9, 1957. Their enduring marriage spanned nearly 56 years, and their household blossomed to include six children, forming a strong family unit that remained central to his life.

The Journey to Major League Baseball and Memorable Debuts

Fred Whitfield officially entered the professional baseball circuit when he was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as an amateur free agent in 1956. This was prior to the establishment of the MLB draft in 1965, meaning teams directly scouted and signed promising young players. His eagerly anticipated Major League debut arrived on May 27, 1962, when he was 24 years old. In a notable first appearance, Whitfield stepped to the plate as a pinch-hitter for none other than the legendary pitcher and future Baseball Hall of Famer, Bob Gibson, facing Bob Shaw of the Milwaukee Braves. He successfully drew a walk, getting on base, though his moment was cut short as he was subsequently erased in a double play. Just two days later, on May 29, 1962, Whitfield made his first career start at Pittsburgh’s historic Forbes Field. It was during this game, in the fourth inning, that he recorded his first Major League hit – an RBI single off pitcher Al McBean that scored another future Hall of Famer, Red Schoendienst, marking a significant milestone in his nascent career.

Peak Performance and Career Highlights

Fred Whitfield’s most impactful and productive seasons in Major League Baseball unfolded between 1963 and 1966, primarily with the Cleveland Indians. During this period, he consistently proved himself as a formidable offensive force, demonstrating impressive power numbers. He hit 21 home runs in 1963, 10 in 1964, 26 in 1965, and a career-high 27 home runs in 1966. His 27 home runs in 1966 were particularly noteworthy, placing him fifth overall in the American League, underscoring his slugging prowess among the league's top hitters. The 1965 season stands out as another pinnacle for Whitfield, where he achieved career-highs with a .293 batting average and drove in 90 runs batted in (RBI), showcasing his ability to hit for both average and power. His exceptional performance that year earned him a prestigious selection as the first baseman on The Sporting News American League All-Star team, a highly respected honor from the era's leading baseball publication. Over his nine-season MLB career, Fred Whitfield maintained a career batting average of .253, accumulating a total of 108 home runs and 356 runs batted in, statistics that solidify his legacy as a capable and reliable offensive contributor for his teams.

Life Beyond the Baseball Diamond

After concluding his professional baseball career, Fred Whitfield returned to his beloved hometown of Vandiver, Alabama. He transitioned into a new professional role as a shipping clerk for Anderson Electric, a local employer, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to his community. Beyond his professional life, Whitfield was an avid outdoorsman, deeply enjoying activities such as hunting and fishing, pursuits that are often a cherished part of life in rural Alabama. His passion for music was also a significant aspect of his life; he found great joy in playing bluegrass music and gospel music on his guitar. This musical inclination led him to actively participate in a gospel group, which notably included his devoted wife and other cherished family members, further highlighting his strong family bonds and community engagement.

Legacy and Passing

Fred Dwight Whitfield passed away at the age of 75 on January 31, 2013. His death was attributed to complications arising from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system. He left behind a rich legacy, both from his contributions to Major League Baseball and his deep personal connections. He was survived by his beloved wife, Helen, with whom he shared a remarkable and enduring marriage of nearly 56 years, a testament to their unwavering devotion. His memory and values continue to be cherished by his loving family, including a daughter, five sons and their spouses, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fred Whitfield

What was Fred Whitfield's nickname and its origin?

Fred Whitfield was nicknamed "Wingy" due to his distinctive and somewhat unconventional throwing motion on the baseball field.

Which MLB teams did Fred Whitfield primarily play for during his career?

While he played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, and Montreal Expos, Fred Whitfield spent his most significant and productive years primarily with the Cleveland Indians.

What were Fred Whitfield's career-best offensive statistics?

His career-highs include 27 home runs in 1966 (ranking fifth in the American League that year), and in 1965, he achieved a career-best .293 batting average and 90 runs batted in (RBI).

What position did Fred Whitfield play in Major League Baseball?

Fred Whitfield played first base throughout his Major League Baseball career.

Did Fred Whitfield interact with any Baseball Hall of Famers early in his career?

Yes, in his MLB debut, he pinch-hit for future Hall of Famer Bob Gibson, and he scored his first career RBI by driving in future Hall of Famer Red Schoendienst.