Denis Menke

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Denis John Menke (born July 21, 1940 in Algona, Iowa) was a baseball infielder who had a 13-year career from 1962 to 1974. He played for the Milwaukee Braves (1962-1965), Atlanta Braves (1966-1967), Houston Astros (1968-1971, 1974) and Cincinnati Reds (1972-1973), all of the National League.

He was elected to the National League All-Star team in 1969 and 1970.

During his career, Menke hit 101 home runs and compiled a lifetime batting average of 250. In 1966 Menke hit 15 home runs -- his single season best. In 1970, as a Houston Astro, Menke compiled a .304 batting average -- his single season best and the only time he hit over .300 as a major leaguer.

In 1969 Menke and Houston outfielder Jim Wynn hit grand slam home runs in the same inning.

Menke was a versatile player in the field. He played first, second, third base, and short stop. He also played five games as an outfielder. Menke complied a career fielding percentage of 969.

Menke played his last major league game July 10 1974 with the Houston Astros. However, he later returned as the Astros hitting coach for six seasons.