Tony York

Tony Batton York (November 27, 1912 Irene, Texas – April 18, 1970 Hillsboro, Texas) was a professional baseball player. He played part of one season in Major League Baseball—the Chicago Cubs in 1944 as a shortstop and third baseman. The 31-year-old rookie was measured during his playing career at 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m) and weighing 165 lbs.

Personal life

He was born in Irene, Texas to Theodore York (1888–1942) and his wife Mattie. Tony was the second of their four children, and the only son. His sisters were Juanita M., Lois C., and May W. York. He was married twice, first to Stephanie. They had no children. His second marriage, on January 29, 1941 was to Mariana Norris (November 30, 1915 – July 21, 2009). They had one daughter, Nancy Ann York.

Playing career

York had an extensive career in minor league baseball. He began his career in 1933 with the Baton Rouge Solons in the Dixie League, and continued to play until 1956. In the minors, York was primarily a shortstop, moving to second base full-time in 1947.

York is one of many ballplayers who only appeared in the major leagues during World War II. He made his major league debut on April 18, 1944 (Opening Day) in a road game against the Cincinnati Reds at Crosley Field.

His season and career major league totals for 28 games include a .235 batting average (20-for-85) with 7 runs batted in and 4 runs scored. He was a good fielder for his era, handling 120 out of 125 total chances successfully for a fielding percentage of .960.

In 1952, York became player-manager of the Texarkana Bears in the Big State League. He served as a player-manager for the remainder of his playing career, and continued managing in the minor leagues until 1958.

Death

Tony and his second wife are buried in Fairview Cemetery in Hubbard, Texas.

External links

• Career statistics and player information from Baseball-Reference, or Baseball-Reference (Minors)
• Retrosheet
• Find a Grave Headstone