Rogers Hornsby “The Rajah”

Rogers Hornsby Sr., known as “The Rajah,” was born on April 27, 1896, in Winters, Texas. He grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, and became a baseball infielder, manager, and coach, playing for five different MLB teams during his illustrious 23-season career.

Career Overview of Rogers Hornsby

As a Player

Rogers Hornsby showcased his talent early, excelling as the star of his high school baseball team.

At the age of 19, he made his MLB debut for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1915, initially playing various positions before settling at second base in 1920. From 1920 to 1925, Hornsby had an exceptional run in the National League, including hitting over .400 in the 1922, 1924, and 1925 seasons. His highest batting average of .424 in 1924 is the second-highest of the 20th century, surpassed only by Nap Lajoie’s .426 in 1901.

Hornsby was renowned not only for his hitting but also for his power and fielding skills, leading the league in home runs twice (1922, 1925) and earning the MVP award in 1925. In 1926, as a player-manager for the Cardinals, he led the team to its first World Series victory against the New York Yankees.

Subsequently, Hornsby played for the New York Giants, Boston Braves, and Chicago Cubs. Despite early success with the Cubs, his performance declined, leading to his release in the 1932 season after just 19 games. He played briefly for the Cardinals and the St. Louis Browns before retiring in 1937.

As a Manager

Hornsby served as a player-manager for the Braves in 1928, the Cubs from 1930 to 1932, and throughout his tenure with the Browns. He later became a full-time manager for the Browns and briefly managed the Cincinnati Reds in 1953. After retiring as a player, he worked as a scout and coach for various MLB teams.

“The Rajah”

Throughout his career, Hornsby earned the nickname “The Rajah.” He abstained from drinking, smoking, and watching movies but enjoyed gambling on horses and had a strong aversion to losing. To this day, he is remembered as a baseball legend and a symbol of excellence.

Hornsby’s Legacy

Rogers Hornsby remains one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, amassing 2,930 hits and 301 home runs. He achieved a batting average of .400 or higher three times in his career, making him the only player to hit 40 home runs and bat .400 in a single season, accomplished in 1922. His .424 batting average in 1924 stands as a record unmatched by any player since.

In 1942, Hornsby was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and in 2014, he was inducted into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame.

Achievements

• World Series champion (1926)
• 2× NL MVP (1925, 1929)
• 2× Triple Crown (1922, 1925)
• 7× NL batting champion (1920–1925, 1928)
• 2× NL home run leader (1922, 1925)
• 4× NL RBI leader (1920–1922, 1925)
• Elected into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame
• Elected into the Major League Baseball All-Century Team
• Elected into the Major League Baseball All-Time Team

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