Rebel Oakes, American baseball player and manager (b. 1883)

Ennis Telfair Oakes, affectionately known as "Rebel," was a distinctive figure in early American professional baseball. Born on December 17, 1883, in Lisbon, Louisiana, Oakes carved out a significant, albeit sometimes tumultuous, career in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a skilled outfielder and later, a pioneering player-manager. His journey through the nascent years of professional baseball, marked by league shifts and impressive statistics, ended with his passing on March 1, 1948, in his hometown.

The Early Years and Stepping Up to the Big Leagues

Hailing from Lisbon, Louisiana, Ennis "Rebel" Oakes began his academic journey at the Louisiana Industrial Institute, an institution that would later evolve into the well-respected Louisiana Tech University. However, the diamond's allure proved stronger than the classroom's pull. Oakes soon channeled his considerable talent into professional baseball, diligently working his way through the minor leagues. His dedication paid off when he made his Major League Baseball debut, a momentous occasion for any aspiring player, after being traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 1909.

A Stint with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Federal League Challenge

Rebel Oakes' time with the Cincinnati Reds was brief but impactful enough to catch the eye of other teams. The very next year, in a notable transaction, Oakes found himself heading to the St. Louis Cardinals. This trade was particularly significant as he, along with future Hall of Fame manager Miller Huggins, was sent to the Cardinals in exchange for pitcher Fred Beebe. For four seasons, Oakes solidified his position as the starting center fielder for the Cardinals, becoming a consistent presence and a reliable bat in their lineup. His career trajectory then took an interesting turn with the emergence of the Federal League in 1914. This independent "third major league" aimed to challenge the established National and American Leagues, luring away many prominent players with lucrative contracts. Oakes, ever the trailblazer, made the jump, signifying the substantial impact the Federal League had on the baseball landscape of the era.

Player-Manager and Career Statistics

In the Federal League, Rebel Oakes took on an elevated role, serving for two seasons as the player-manager for the Pittsburgh Rebels. The team, quite fittingly, was named in his honor, a testament to his reputation and leadership qualities within the league. This dual role of playing and managing was common in early baseball, demanding immense baseball acumen and strategic foresight. However, the Federal League's ambitious challenge ultimately faltered, folding after just two seasons. With its collapse, Rebel Oakes' Major League Baseball career also came to an end, as he never returned to the established leagues. Despite the brevity of his MLB tenure, Oakes left behind an impressive statistical legacy. Over 986 games spanning seven major league seasons, he achieved a respectable .279 batting average, collecting 1011 hits in 3619 at-bats. His offensive contributions included 428 runs scored, 112 doubles, 42 triples, 15 home runs, and 397 runs batted in (RBI). Demonstrating his speed and agility on the base paths, Oakes also recorded 163 stolen bases and drew 265 bases on balls. As an outfielder, his defensive prowess was notable, finishing his career with a solid .961 fielding percentage.

Life After the Majors: Managing and Later Years

Even after his Major League Baseball career concluded, Rebel Oakes remained deeply involved in the sport. In 1916, he continued to play and manage, this time for the Denver Bears of the Western League, a prominent minor league circuit. Displaying his enduring talent and leadership, his team finished a respectable fourth place that season, and Oakes himself led the league in hits with an impressive 205, showcasing his continued hitting ability even outside of the MLB spotlight. Rebel Oakes ultimately returned to his roots, passing away at the age of 64 in his hometown of Lisbon, Louisiana. He is interred at the Rocky Springs Cemetery in Lisbon, a quiet resting place for a man who made considerable noise on the baseball fields of early 20th-century America.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rebel Oakes

Who was Rebel Oakes?

Rebel Oakes, born Ennis Telfair Oakes, was an American Major League Baseball player from 1909 to 1915, primarily known as a center fielder and later a player-manager for the Pittsburgh Rebels in the Federal League.

When did Rebel Oakes debut in MLB?

He made his Major League Baseball debut in 1909 with the Cincinnati Reds.

What teams did Rebel Oakes play for?

Rebel Oakes played for the Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Pittsburgh Rebels (Federal League).

What was the Federal League's significance in Rebel Oakes' career?

The Federal League offered Oakes a chance to be a player-manager for the Pittsburgh Rebels, a role reflecting his leadership. However, the league's eventual folding also marked the end of his MLB career.

What were some of Rebel Oakes' key career statistics?

In 986 games, Oakes posted a .279 batting average with 1011 hits, 397 RBI, 163 stolen bases, and a .961 fielding percentage as an outfielder.

Did Rebel Oakes play baseball after his MLB career?

Yes, after his MLB career, he played and managed for the Denver Bears of the Western League in 1916, even leading the league in hits that season.