Woody English
In 1931, Abe Stark devised a plan to create publicity for his men's clothing store. He paid to have a sign placed at the bottom of the right field scoreboard in Ebbets Field. The sign said "Hit Sign, Win Suit," and promised a new set of threads to whoever could do that with a batted ball on the fly. For six years, no one did, until Dodger shortstop Woody English accomplished it. English, hardly a long-distance hitter, laced a double off the wall (and sign) and earned his free suit from Mr. Stark.
Played For
Chicago Cubs (1927-1936)
Brooklyn Dodgers (1937-1938)
Minor League Experience
"He hopped into his first professional job with Toledo in 1925 after trying out with Hamilton and Zanesville in 1924. During his second season, 1926, with Toledo, Woody developed into the best shortstop in the American Association and had a .301 batting average to further recommend him. The Cubs laid out important money to acquire him, but no mistake was made and he became a regular from the start with the Chicago team. He was given a whirl at third base in 1930 and has been alternating between that position and shortstop since then." — The Sporting News, January 26, 1933
Born
Elwood George English was born on March 2, 1906, in Fredonia, OH.
Died
September 26, 1997, Newark, OH
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
Primary Position: SS
Primary Team: CHN
Major League Debut
April 26, 1927
Nine Other Players Who Debuted in 1927
Dick Bartell
Lloyd Waner
Sammy West
Carl Reynolds
Wes Ferrell
Wilcy Moore
Red Kress
Woody English
Fred Schulte
Post-Season Appearances
1929 World Series
1932 World Series
All-Star Selections
1933 NL
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