Deaths on March 25

Eddie Collins

Died on March 25, 1951

Eddie Collins, American baseball player and manager (b. 1887)

Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr., affectionately known throughout the baseball world as "Cocky," was a titan of the game whose remarkable career spanned decades as a player, manager, and executive. Born on May 2, 1887, he left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball, showcasing exceptional skill and strategic acumen until his passing on March 25, 1951.

A Stellar Playing Career and Unmatched Records

A true intellectual on and off the field, Collins was an alumnus of Columbia University, a rare distinction for a professional athlete of his era. He made his Major League Baseball debut in 1906 and went on to play as an elite second baseman for an impressive 25 seasons, first with the Philadelphia Athletics and later with the Chicago White Sox, concluding his playing days in 1930. His career was punctuated by numerous records and distinctions that underscore his dominance. Collins remains among the top players in several major league career categories, holding outright records in others. A particularly significant milestone came in 1925 when Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. became only the sixth player in MLB history to achieve the coveted 3,000-hit club, a testament to his consistent bat-to-ball skill and longevity. Remarkably, he would be the last player to reach this benchmark for the next 17 seasons, highlighting the rarity of his achievement. Interestingly, among all members of this exclusive club, Collins holds the distinction of having the fewest career home runs, with just 47, emphasizing his role as a contact hitter and base-running threat rather than a slugger. Beyond individual statistics, his team success was also extraordinary; Collins is the sole non-Yankee player to win five or more World Series titles with the same club, an incredible feat that speaks volumes about his impact on championship teams.

From Player to Leader: Manager, Coach, and Executive

Upon retiring as a player, Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. seamlessly transitioned into leadership roles within baseball, continuing to contribute his vast knowledge and experience. He spent time coaching and managing in the major leagues, passing on his wisdom to new generations of players. His leadership capabilities extended even further when he took on the demanding role of general manager for the Boston Red Sox, demonstrating his versatility and deep understanding of the game from every angle.

Legacy and Hall of Fame Induction

Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr.'s immense contributions to baseball were formally recognized in 1939 when he was deservedly inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. His legacy endures as one of the most complete and impactful figures in the sport's history, a true pioneer whose influence stretched across multiple facets of the game. His story remains a compelling chapter in the annals of American sports, celebrating not just a great player, but also a dedicated leader and astute baseball mind.

FAQs About Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr.

Who was Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr.?: Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr., often called "Cocky," was an American professional baseball player, manager, and executive. He is considered one of the greatest second basemen in Major League Baseball history.
What teams did Eddie Collins play for?: Eddie Collins played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Chicago White Sox during his MLB career, which spanned from 1906 to 1930.
What notable records or achievements did Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. hold?: He holds major league career records in several categories and is among the top few players in others. He was the sixth person to join the prestigious 3,000 hit club in 1925 and holds the record for the fewest career home runs (47) among its members. Collins is also the only non-Yankee player to win five or more World Series titles with the same club.
Was Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. a college graduate?: Yes, he was a graduate of Columbia University, which was quite uncommon for professional baseball players of his era.
When was Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame?: He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.
What did Edward Trowbridge Collins Sr. do after his playing career?: After retiring as a player, he coached and managed in the major leagues. He also served as the general manager of the Boston Red Sox.

References

Eddie Collins

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Events on 1951

11 Apr

President Truman's relief of General Douglas MacArthur
Korean War: President Harry Truman relieves General of the Army Douglas MacArthur of overall command in Korea.
22 Apr

Battle of Kapyong
Korean War: The Chinese People's Volunteer Army begin assaulting positions defended by the Royal Australian Regiment and the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry at the Battle of Kapyong.
25 Apr

Battle of Kapyong
Korean War: Assaulting Chinese forces are forced to withdraw after heavy fighting with UN forces, primarily made up of Australian and Canadian troops, at the Battle of Kapyong.
3 May

Harry Truman
The United States Senate Committee on Armed Services and United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations begin their closed door hearings into the dismissal of General Douglas MacArthur by U.S. President Harry Truman.
15 Oct

Combined oral contraceptive pill
Mexican chemist Luis E. Miramontes conducts the very last step of the first synthesis of norethisterone, the progestin that would later be used in one of the first three oral contraceptives.