Cot Deal, American baseball player and coach (d. 2013)

Ellis Ferguson "Cot" Deal, born on January 23, 1923, and passing on May 21, 2013, was a remarkably versatile and enduring figure in Major League Baseball (MLB). His career spanned nearly five decades, during which he contributed to the sport not only as a skilled pitcher but also as a dedicated coach, manager, and executive.

A true son of Oklahoma, Deal was a native of Arapaho and spent his formative years growing up in Oklahoma City. It was there that he acquired his memorable nickname, "Cot," a testament to his distinctive cotton-top hair color. Athletically built at 5 ft 10.5 in (1.79 m) and weighing 185 lb (84 kg), Deal possessed the physical attributes well-suited for a baseball player. On the mound, he was a right-handed pitcher, while at the plate, he showcased a rare versatility as a switch-hitter, capable of batting effectively from both the left and right sides, a valuable strategic asset in any baseball lineup.

A Career Defined by Longevity and Service

Cot Deal's professional baseball journey began in 1940, embarking on a path that would astonishingly extend until 1989. This extensive period, encompassing 49 years, was interrupted only by his profound commitment to military service during World War II. From 1943 to 1944, Deal proudly served in the United States Army Air Forces, putting his burgeoning baseball career on hold to contribute to the war effort during a critical period in global history. This act of patriotism was common among athletes of his generation who answered the call to serve their nation.

Multi-Faceted Contributions to Baseball

Deal's active involvement in baseball spanned 48 years within his career timeframe, a testament to his profound understanding and unwavering dedication to the game. His contributions encompassed a diverse array of roles, showcasing his adaptability and comprehensive skill set:

• Player (20 years): Primarily known for his pitching prowess, Deal ascended to Major League Baseball, playing for iconic teams such as the Boston Red Sox (1947-1950) and the St. Louis Browns (1950-1951). His playing tenure covered both minor and major league levels, allowing him to gain invaluable on-field experience and a deep tactical understanding of the sport.
• Manager (5 years): As a manager, Deal took the helm of various minor league teams, playing a crucial role in developing emerging talent and shaping future MLB players. This leadership position demanded strategic insight, player development acumen, and effective communication skills.
• Coach (22 years): His longest and arguably most impactful role was as a coach, where he imparted his extensive knowledge and experience to multiple generations of players. Notably, he served as a respected pitching coach for the Milwaukee and later Atlanta Braves for many years (1958-1966, 1968-1974), and also contributed to the Montreal Expos (1969-1970). Coaches are fundamental to player improvement, focusing on refining technique, developing game strategies, and fostering mental resilience.
• Executive (1 year): In an executive capacity, often serving as a scout or a minor league coordinator, Deal played a vital role in the organizational development and talent acquisition strategies of various baseball clubs. This demonstrated his comprehensive understanding of the sport, extending beyond the playing field into the strategic management of a professional organization.

Cot Deal’s extraordinary dedication meant he was actively involved in professional baseball for virtually his entire adult life. His enduring impact resonated deeply through multiple generations of players and within various crucial facets of the game's operation.

Ellis Ferguson "Cot" Deal passed away peacefully on May 21, 2013, in Oklahoma City, the very place he called home for much of his life. His remarkable legacy as a versatile baseball man, a decorated veteran, and a foundational contributor to the sport's development continues to be honored.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cot Deal

Who was Ellis Ferguson "Cot" Deal?

Ellis Ferguson "Cot" Deal was a highly versatile and long-serving figure in Major League Baseball (MLB), renowned for his extensive career as a pitcher, coach, manager, and executive. He dedicated 48 active years to professional baseball, significantly contributing to multiple facets of the game.

Why was he nicknamed "Cot"?

He earned the nickname "Cot" during his youth in Oklahoma City due to his distinctive cotton-top hair color.

What was Cot Deal's military service?

Cot Deal proudly served in the United States Army Air Forces from 1943 to 1944. His military service during World War II temporarily interrupted his early professional baseball career.

Which MLB teams did Cot Deal play for?

As a pitcher in Major League Baseball, Cot Deal played for the Boston Red Sox (1947-1950) and the St. Louis Browns (1950-1951).

How long was Cot Deal involved in professional baseball?

Cot Deal's professional baseball career spanned an impressive 49 years, from 1940 to 1989. Within this period, he was actively involved in various roles for 48 years, encompassing 20 years as a player, 5 years as a manager, 22 years as a coach, and 1 year as an executive.