Births on March 13

Home Run Baker, American baseball player and manager (d. 1963)

John Franklin Baker, affectionately known throughout the baseball world as "Home Run" Baker, carved out an indelible legacy as a premier American professional baseball player. Born on March 13, 1886, and passing on June 28, 1963, Baker was not just a third baseman; he was a symbol of power in an era where power hitting was a rarity, captivating fans for the Philadelphia Athletics and New York Yankees from 1908 to 1922.

The Original Home Run King of the Dead-Ball Era

In an era predominantly defined by "small ball" – strategically advanced runners, bunts, and stolen bases – John Franklin Baker earned a nickname that seems almost contradictory by today’s standards: "Home Run" Baker. It's a testament to his unique prowess that, despite never hitting more than a dozen home runs in a single season and accumulating a career total of just 96, he was widely regarded as the "original home run king of the majors." To understand this, one must delve into the very fabric of the Dead-ball Era, a period before 1920 where baseballs were less lively, parks were larger, and the strategic emphasis was on manufacturing runs rather than relying on the long ball. For context, while Ned Williamson hit 27 in 1884 and Roger Connor amassed 138 career homers, Baker's consistent ability to clear the fence in his time was simply electrifying. From 1911 to 1914, Baker led the American League in home runs, a remarkable feat that solidified his reputation as a genuine power threat when such feats were genuinely uncommon and profoundly impactful.

A Foundational Career: The Philadelphia Athletics Dynasty

Baker began his distinguished Major League Baseball career in 1908 with the Philadelphia Athletics, a powerhouse franchise under the legendary manager Connie Mack. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team’s defense and offense at third base. Baker was a pivotal member of the famed " $100,000 infield," a moniker reflecting the then-unprecedented value and talent of the Athletics' infielders, making them one of the most celebrated units in baseball history. This formidable squad, anchored by Baker, dominated the American League, leading the Athletics to World Series championships in 1910, 1911, and 1913. His clutch hitting and steady defense were instrumental in securing these titles, cementing his status as a national baseball hero.

A Pivotal Shift: From Athletics to Yankees

The landscape of Baker's career, and indeed early MLB, was often shaped by contract disputes, a common challenge for players seeking fair compensation in an era without free agency. Following a significant disagreement over his contract, the Athletics made the momentous decision to sell Baker to the burgeoning New York Yankees. This move, executed in 1914, was a seismic event, dramatically altering the fortunes of both clubs. With the Yankees, Baker joined forces with another talented slugger, Wally Pipp, creating a potent offensive duo that helped lay the groundwork for the Yankees' future dynasty. His presence immediately bolstered the New York lineup, and he continued to showcase his exceptional hitting abilities. Baker would later appear with the Yankees in back-to-back World Series in 1921 and 1922, though the team fell short in both championship bids, before he ultimately retired from professional baseball after the 1922 season.

Statistical Prowess and Defensive Grit

Beyond the headline-grabbing home runs, John Franklin "Home Run" Baker's career statistics paint a picture of consistent excellence at the plate. He maintained a batting average over .300 in six different seasons, a remarkable achievement for any era, but especially during the Dead-ball period. Furthermore, he demonstrated his run-producing capabilities with three seasons accumulating more than 100 runs batted in (RBI) and crossed home plate himself over 100 times in two separate seasons. What truly underscored his dedication and skill was his defensive consistency: throughout his entire 13-year Major League career, Baker never played a single inning at any position other than third base. This steadfast commitment to the "hot corner" highlights his reliability and specialized talent, making him one of the era's most respected and complete players.

An Enduring Legacy and Hall of Fame Immortality

Decades after his playing days, John Franklin Baker's impact on baseball only continued to grow. He is rightfully regarded by many as one of the finest power hitters of the Dead-ball Era, a pioneer who demonstrated that the long ball, even in limited quantities, could be a game-changing force. His contributions to both the Athletics' early dynasty and the Yankees' ascent were foundational. In recognition of his illustrious career and his profound influence on the game, "Home Run" Baker was deservedly elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Veterans Committee in 1955, forever enshrining his place among baseball's immortals.

FAQs about John Franklin "Home Run" Baker

Who was John Franklin "Home Run" Baker?

John Franklin "Home Run" Baker was a legendary American professional baseball player, primarily a third baseman, famous for his impactful power hitting during the low-scoring Dead-ball Era of Major League Baseball from 1908 to 1922.

Why was he called "Home Run" Baker if his home run totals were relatively low?

He earned the nickname because, during the Dead-ball Era, home runs were incredibly rare. Baker's ability to consistently hit them (leading the American League from 1911-1914) made him a standout "power hitter" for his time, despite his career total of 96 home runs seeming modest by modern standards. His home runs were game-changing events.

Which MLB teams did John Franklin Baker play for?

He played for two iconic franchises: the Philadelphia Athletics from 1908 to 1914 and the New York Yankees from 1914 to 1922.

What were John Franklin Baker's major career achievements?

Baker helped the Philadelphia Athletics win three World Series championships (1910, 1911, 1913), led the American League in home runs for four consecutive seasons (1911-1914), achieved a batting average over .300 in six seasons, and was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1955.

When was "Home Run" Baker inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame?

John Franklin "Home Run" Baker was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Veterans Committee in 1955, recognizing his lasting impact and distinguished career.