Benny Kauff
In the brief existence of the Federal League's challenge to the two-league format, Benny Kauff was their best player. He won the batting title in the loop both years it was recognized as legitimate, and was dubbed the "Ty Cobb of the Federal League." When it was disbanded, John McGraw won the bidding war for Kauff, and inserted the little left-handed batter in center field. Kauff struggled in his first year in the Senior Circuit, but hit over .300 the following two seasons. In 1921, he was charged with auto theft and was banned from baseball by the commissioner. Despite his acquittal of the crime, Kauff was never re-instated.
Quotes About Kauff
"That acquittal was one of the worst miscarriages of justice that ever came under my observation." — Commissioner Kenesaw M. Landis, speaking on Kauff's acquittal on auto theft charges, in 1922.
Played For
New York Yankees (1912)
Indianapolis Hoosiers (1914)
Brooklyn Tip-Tops (1915)
New York Giants (1916-1920)
Born
Benjamin Michael Kauff was born on January 5, 1890, in Pomeroy, OH.
Died
November 17, 1961, Columbus, OH
Batted: Left
Threw: Left
Primary Position: OF
Primary Team: NY1
Major League Debut
April 20, 1912
Nine Other Players Who Debuted in 1912
Rabbit Maranville
Cy Williams
Del Pratt
Bobby Veach
Ray Schalk
Casey Stengel
Buck Weaver
Ray Chapman
Herb Pennock
Related Players
He and right fielder Ross Youngs were friends in their years as outfielders for John McGraw's Giants.
Post-Season Appearances
1917 World Series
Post-Season Notes
Kauff was just 4-for-25 in the 1917 World Series loss to the Chicago White Sox. He did, however, belt a pair of homers and drive in five runs - leading his team. Both homers came off Red Faber in Game Four at the Polo Grounds.
Batting Feats
- October 11, 1917: 2 HR in WS Game...
Best Strength as a Player
Speed
Largest Weakness as a Player
There's some evidence that Kauff had platoon skills. As a left-handed batter, he struggled against left-handed pitchers, at least in the National League. According to sportswriter F.C. Lane, Kauff was "a terrific mauler of right-handed pitchers."
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