Jimmy Burke, American baseball player and manager (b. 1874)

James Timothy Burke: A Glimpse into Early Baseball

Born on October 12, 1874, James Timothy Burke, whose journey in life concluded on March 26, 1942, was a notable figure in early Major League Baseball. He left his mark as a versatile professional, taking on roles not just as a skilled third baseman, but also contributing his expertise as a coach and manager. Burke's career spanned a fascinating era of baseball, seeing him don the uniforms of several prominent teams across the league, cementing his place in the annals of early MLB history.

A Roving Infielder: Teams and Tenures

Burke's playing career saw him travel across the burgeoning landscape of Major League Baseball. His early years included stints with the Cleveland Spiders, followed by the St. Louis Perfectos, and later the Milwaukee Brewers. As the turn of the century brought new team names and shifting rosters, Burke also graced the fields for the Chicago White Stockings, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the St. Louis Cardinals, leaving his imprint on multiple franchises. While his journey involved several clubs, it was with the St. Louis Cardinals that he truly found his stride as a regular fixture. From 1903 through the 1905 season, fans could consistently find James Timothy Burke anchoring third base for the Cardinals, showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive contributions during this significant period of his professional baseball career.

Brief Foray into Management: The Cardinals' Helm

The 1905 season marked a pivotal, albeit brief, shift in Burke's career trajectory. Mid-season, he took on the challenging dual role of player-manager for the St. Louis Cardinals. This transition placed him at the helm, tasking him with both performing on the field and guiding the team's strategic direction, a common practice in the early days of baseball. However, the demands of the position proved arduous, and his tenure as manager was short-lived. After accumulating a record of 34 wins against 56 losses, Burke was succeeded by Stanley Robison. This managerial chapter, though brief, adds another dimension to James Timothy Burke's multifaceted career in professional baseball, highlighting his varied contributions to the game.

FAQs About James Timothy Burke

Who was James Timothy Burke?
James Timothy Burke (October 12, 1874 – March 26, 1942) was an early American Major League Baseball player, coach, and manager. He primarily played as a third baseman in the nascent years of the league.
What teams did James Timothy Burke play for?
Throughout his playing career, Burke played for several Major League Baseball teams, including the Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Perfectos, Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago White Stockings, Pittsburgh Pirates, and the St. Louis Cardinals.
When was James Timothy Burke a regular third baseman?
Burke served as the regular third baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals from the 1903 season through 1905, establishing himself as a key infielder for the team.
What was James Timothy Burke's record as a manager?
During his brief stint as player-manager for the St. Louis Cardinals in the middle of the 1905 season, James Timothy Burke compiled a record of 34 wins and 56 losses before being replaced.