Gene Freese, American baseball player and manager (d. 2013)

Who Was Eugene "Gene" Freese?

Eugene Lewis "Gene" Freese, born on January 8, 1934, and passing on June 18, 2013, was a distinguished American professional baseball third baseman. Over a remarkable 12-season career in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1955 to 1966, Freese earned a widespread reputation as a quintessential "journeyman" player, a testament to his enduring presence and utility across various teams.

A True Baseball Journeyman

The term "journeyman" in professional sports, particularly baseball, refers to a player who moves between multiple teams throughout their career, often providing valuable versatility, veteran leadership, and reliable performance without consistently holding a star role. Gene Freese perfectly embodied this archetype, demonstrating the consistency and adaptability required to remain in the demanding environment of MLB for over a decade. His ability to contribute across different franchises highlighted his professional dedication and skill, making him a highly valued asset for numerous clubs during the mid-20th century.

Gene Freese's Extensive MLB Career

Freese's professional journey saw him wear the uniforms of seven different Major League Baseball franchises, with two teams hosting him for separate stints:

This extensive list of teams underscores his role as a consistent, dependable player who could be relied upon to fill various needs for contending and developing rosters alike during a pivotal era of baseball.

Career Highlights and Statistics

Throughout his 1,115 games played in Major League Baseball, Gene Freese posted a solid career batting average of .254. His offensive contributions included a respectable 115 home runs and 432 runs batted in (RBI), showcasing his ability to provide power and drive in runs from the third base position. As a right-handed batter and thrower, Freese was listed during his playing days at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters) tall and weighing 175 pounds (79 kilograms), a sturdy build well-suited for the demands of the "hot corner."

The Origin of "Augie": Gene Freese's Memorable Nickname

An interesting anecdote from Gene Freese's early career involved the coinage of his nickname, "Augie." As a rookie with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1955, his teammates bestowed this moniker upon him. The nickname was a direct reference to Augie Donatelli, a prominent and highly respected National League umpire who officiated in Major League Baseball from 1950 to 1973. Coincidentally, Donatelli was behind the plate, calling balls and strikes, during Freese's very first big league game. This unique interaction between player and umpire on a momentous day for Freese led to a memorable nickname that stuck with him throughout his career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gene Freese

How many teams did Gene Freese play for in MLB?
Gene Freese played for seven different Major League Baseball teams over his 12-season career: the Pittsburgh Pirates (twice), St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox (twice), Cincinnati Reds, and Houston Astros.
What does "journeyman" mean in the context of a baseball player?
In baseball, a "journeyman" is a player who typically plays for multiple teams throughout their career, often providing depth, versatility, and experience rather than being a consistent superstar. These players are highly valued for their reliability and ability to adapt to different team needs.
What were Gene Freese's career batting average and home run total?
Gene Freese concluded his MLB career with a .254 batting average, accumulating 115 home runs and 432 runs batted in (RBI) across 1,115 games played.
Why was Gene Freese nicknamed "Augie"?
He was nicknamed "Augie" by his Pittsburgh Pirates teammates during his rookie year in 1955. The name was a playful tribute to umpire Augie Donatelli, who was coincidentally the home plate umpire calling balls and strikes during Freese's inaugural Major League game.