El Tappe

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Elvin Walter Tappe (May 21, 1927 - October 10, 1998) was a catcher for the Chicago Cubs from 1954 to 1962, but he was best known for being part of the Philip K. Wrigley-implemented College of Coaches in the 1961 season. The Cubs played the entire 1961 season with a rotating system of coaches who would alternate as manager. Vedie Himsl and Harry Craft managed 31 and 16 games respectively, and Tappe was named manager for 95 games. The final 12 games for the Cubs' season were managed by Lou Klein. In the 1962 season, Tappe started out as manager, but was replaced after 20 games by Klein. He returned to his backup catcher role, and never played in the majors after the 1962 season. He remained with the Cubs as a coach and scout.

Tappe died in his birthplace of Quincy, Illinois at age 71.

Preceded by
Harry Craft
Chicago Cubs Manager
1961
Succeeded by
Lou Klein
Preceded by
Lou Klein
Chicago Cubs Manager
1962
Succeeded by
Lou Klein