Position: Outfielder

Bats/Throws: Left/Left

Born: June 1, 1886, Mount Carmel, Illinois

Died: January 9, 1972, Los Angeles, California

Teams: New York Giants (1908–1913)

Introduction to Fred Snodgrass

Fred Snodgrass is perhaps best known for one play that defined his career—a costly error in the 1912 World Series that became a symbol of the fleeting nature of fame in baseball. Despite this infamous moment, Snodgrass was a solid player throughout his career with the New York Giants, contributing both offensively and defensively during their successful run in the early 1910s.

Playing Career

Snodgrass played for the New York Giants from 1908 to 1913, where he was regarded as a reliable outfielder. He was known for his ability to get on base, hitting .270 for his career, and he was a key part of the team’s offense. His defense, particularly his ability to cover ground in the outfield, was also a valued asset to the Giants.

Notable Achievements

Snodgrass’s biggest achievement came in the form of his contribution to the Giants' 1911 National League pennant. He was part of a roster that included some of the biggest names in baseball at the time, including Christy Mathewson and Johnny Evers. He was a consistent presence in the outfield and at the plate, hitting over .300 in two seasons with the Giants.

The Infamous 1912 World Series Error

Fred Snodgrass’s name will forever be tied to the error he committed in Game 2 of the 1912 World Series. With two outs in the tenth inning, Snodgrass dropped a routine fly ball, which allowed the Boston Red Sox to score the winning run. The mistake haunted him for the rest of his career, and he would later express regret about the incident, even though many of his teammates felt it was blown out of proportion by the media.

Career Statistics

Below is a look at some of Fred Snodgrass's career statistics:

Legacy in Baseball

While Fred Snodgrass’s career may have been marred by his famous error, his overall contributions to the game should not be overlooked. He was a solid, steady presence in the outfield, and his ability to get on base helped his teams succeed during his time in the majors. His brief but impactful career in the early 1900s leaves a legacy of a player who contributed more than one misstep to the game.