Art Schallock, a former Yankee who had been the oldest living retired major leaguer, has died, MLB announced Saturday. Schallock would have turned 101 in April.
Schallock, a lefty, pitched for the Yankees from 1951-55 and earned three World Series rings (and threw two innings of one-run ball in the ’53 Series against the Dodgers).
“A beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Art lived a remarkable life, from serving his country in World War II to achieving his dream of playing Major League Baseball,” the family said in a statement. “As a pitcher for the New York Yankees, he was part of a historic era in the sport, contributing to multiple World Series championships. Beyond baseball, Art was known for his kindness, humor, and deep appreciation for the people around him. He lived a life filled with cherished friendships, family, and a passion for the sport that defined much of his journey.”
Art Schallock was called to play for the Yankees in 1951, replacing Mickey Mantle.AP
When the Yankees optioned the then-19-year-old Mickey Mantle to Triple-A in 1951, Schallock got his shot in the major leagues at age 27.
He roomed with Yogi Berra as a rookie, shared a clubhouse with Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Phil Rizzuto and held Ted Williams hitless in a pair of at-bats.
The Mill Valley, Calif., native played his final season with the Orioles and later returned home to the Bay Area.
The Yankees had honored Schallock last April, when he turned 100, and sent him a jersey signed by the team.
Art Schallock with his teammates, Phil Rizzuto and Joe DiMaggio, and Yankee manager Casey Stengel.Courtesy of Art Schallock
Later in the season they met with Schallock when visiting the Giants at Oracle Park, where Schallock talked with Aaron Boone and players in the dugout.
