The Nicknames of Major League Baseball 2021
By Joseph Ross and Richard M Renneboog
()
About this ebook
Think "Babe." Who will you associate that with? Most people will say, "Babe Ruth." But there are 32 players whose nickname is Babe. And that is not the most prolific nickname.
There are 42 BUDs, 46 BUCKs, and 35 WHITEYs.
Most popular is the nickname of LEFTY. Nearly 190 players were nicknamed LEFTY, most of t
Joseph Ross
Joseph Ross is a Chartered Physiotherapist. He studied in Scotland at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, and then worked several years in London and in private practice in Norway. He returned home to Australia and worked in a major Melbourne hospital, the Alfred, before entering private practice. For two seasons he was contracted to one of the leading A.F.L. football teams as their physiotherapist. His main area of interest is in spinal problems, and his professional work is almost exclusively dominated by such. A wry neck when he was fifteen influenced him to choose physiotherapy as a career. More recently he has had a prolapsed lumbar disc, which he successfully keeps under control. Please check out my website: richmondphysiotherapybacksnecks.com.au
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The Nicknames of Major League Baseball 2021 - Joseph Ross
Introduction
This book was designed as a reference tool. The authors have included as many nicknames as we could possibly find. When possible, the origins of those nicknames are included. Many players had more nicknames than years of major league experience, some even more than Major League games played. Some of the names were gained at birth for a variety of reasons. Others were acquired during their playing careers. Some make sense. Some make no sense.
In addition to serving as a general reference, the book will also provide enjoyable reading and a guidebook for some baseball-related word games. Try making a menu for dinner using only baseball nicknames from Major League players.
That is fairly easy because there are so many choices, from breakfast cereal to after-dinner cookies or nuts.
Here is a word game for baseball fans. If we say BABE,
what is the first name that comes to mind? Most fans will say Ruth.
But there are at least 30 other Babes listed in this book who played in the Major Leagues.
Babe
is not the most common nickname. That unimaginative moniker belongs to
Lefty.
The authors found nearly 200 instances where a player, pitchers for the most part, were called Lefty.
Following that were more than 170 players who were big: Big Stan, Big Bill, Big whatever or whomever. Some were called big because they were, at least in size, sometimes in stature. Others were called big because they were extremely short for the major leagues.
Another category was based on hair color: 145 were Red; only 35 were Whitey.
The 13 players referred to as Baldy or Bald [anything] were probably underrepresenting that particular group.
There were at least 83 players referred to as Doc
and another 10 as Dr.
or
Doctor.
Some of these actually were doctors, either before, during, or after their baseball careers.
Other more popular nicknames included, in no particular order, Buck, Bud, Cy, and Rube. Twenty-one players were referred to as the Franchise.
Kid
may sometimes have referred to a player whose coach or manager could not pronounce or remember his name.
Some players were referred to by a location. For instance, Casey Stengel got his nickname because he was from Kansas City, which became KC, which in turn became Casey. Nearly 100 players had a nickname including a reference to a location, either a city, state, or region.
Many players used their middle names. We tried to ignore these. More than 50
players chose to be known simply by their initials, either first and last or first and middle, occasionally all three.
Species of bird were considerably under-represented. We found Warbler, Vulture, Sparrow, Robin, and just plain Bird.
For those interested in food, there are 43 mentions of various foods from Buttermilk to Yams. That does not include animals that provide food, such as chicken, various varieties of seafood, and beef. That list has names from Ant to Weasel. There are birds, real and imagined, along with some non-existent creatures like Unicorn, Werewolf, Dragon, or Ghost.
Many players have adopted names of people. Some were given these names at birth. Why their parents did not give those players their nicknames as actual names is something we will probably never know. Others received them in honor or memory of a favorite player, someone to strive to emulate. Most interesting in that category is Mickey Mantle. He was named after Mickey Cochrane. Mantle was said to be very happy that his parents did not know that Cochrane was really named Gordon. Mantle hated the thought of being named Gordan Mantle.
Some players were called Pat, Bill, Marty, or almost anything else. Some had female names, like Mary or Liz. Others were named after cartoon characters.
For readers who crave their childhood memories of cops and robbers, or cowboys and Indians, good news awaits: there is only one Outlaw and three Killers. They have only eight Bullets and five Shotguns. They would undoubtedly lose to the 18
Sheriffs, one member of the Police, and two Officers . The good guys report to 14
Captains, 35 Chiefs, 6 Colonels, 3 Generals, 4 Majors, and The Lone Ranger.
Mention the King of Swing: baseball fans again think of Babe Ruth. Many older folks think of Benny Goodman. Benny did not play baseball, but that’s all right.
Ruth didn’t play the clarinet. Many of the older readers may have liked Ike, but that is not referring to the 17 Major League baseball players with that nickname.
We hope you enjoy this book as much as we enjoyed preparing it. We relied on information available from hundreds of sources and hundreds of writers. We remain eternally grateful for their efforts.
All errors are ours.
The authors
A Note About Certain Nicknames
A number of nicknames are very common. Every player, primarily pitchers, who bats and throws left-handed is going to be nicknamed Lefty
at some point. Every player with red hair or a reddish complexion is eventually going to get stuck with the nickname Red
or 'Reddy
. The nickname of
Whitey
generally refers to light or white hair. We leave off those explanations. In less politically correct times, almost every player who came to the big leagues from a country or foreign background, often uneducated, was nicknamed something akin to 'Rube
' or Dutch
by his
more worldly
colleagues. Similarly, a lot of players who bore a dark complexion were called Nig
or Niggy,
the origin of the term requiring no further explanation.
Many players have a familiar name that is just a shortened version of one of their given names or a name with a ‘y’ or ‘ie’ added, while some prefer to be known just by their initials or a middle name instead of an actual nickname. The former can't be considered actual nicknames by any standards and are often not included in this list. It is debatable whether the latter should be properly considered nicknames, but they are included here for the unique manner in which they identify the individual. Also not necessarily included in this list are interchangeable names such as 'Jack' for 'John' and 'Hal' for 'Harold', etc.
Some players are given nicknames by their peers that recall another player who was highly regarded, because they seem to have a certain respected quality that characterized that other player. The context in which such a nickname is given is important, since the two players will have also played the same positions. A pitcher might be nicknamed Cy
or Rube
in this way, in reference to Cy Young or Rube Waddell; a power hitter might be tagged with 'Babe', for Babe Ruth, and so on.
In many cases, it isn't at all clear why the player got his unique nickname – Wagon Tongue
and
Dorf
, for example - and in other cases it is all too obvious – Three-Fingered
and One-Armed
being the prime examples of that situation. Who first gave a nickname may also be a mystery that may be lost in time, unless someone who actually knows first-hand can fill in the blanks and provide that information for baseball historians.
NOTES:
For this book, we have accepted the definition of a Major League
and of team names from Baseball-Reference.com, even when the MLB website may disagree, especially for those teams which played in the early days of the sport. For that reason, we also do not include the Negro Leagues, although some great players played in that venue and, based on recent MLB action, will surely be included in the next edition of this book.
We have used parentheses to indicate middle names, even if only an initial or two middle names: (James, Billy John). For first and middle names that do not match the listed name, brackets: [John David]. For pronunciation, we use braces: {MAR-tell}. Some pronunciations are not listed exactly as editors may like but are listed as the authors deem easiest for broadcasters.
Some names may not appear as they do on Baseball-Reference.com. That has more to do with the quirks of putting together this tome than for any other reason. Please do not attempt to insert any importance to that ocurrence.
In the index, many nicknames have names attached (for instance, Uncle Tom, Miltie, etc.; or Happy Jack, Bill, etc.). These may be referenced only by the adjective (Honest, Home Run, Rowdy) but are listed completely by player.
The Players
Aardsma David (Allan)
The DA
Giants, Cubs, White Sox, Red Sox, Mariners, Yankees, Mets, Braves, 2004-2015
Aaron, Henry (Louis)
Hammer;
Hammerin’ Hank
From teammates for his power.
Bad Henry
Given by opposing pitchers.
Pork Chops
First nickname ( minor leagues), given because it was the only thing I knew to order off the menu.
Braves, Brewers, 1954-1976
Abad, Fausto (Andres)
Andy
Athletics, Red Sox, Reds, 2001-2006
Abbaticchio, Ed [Edward James]
Batty
A shortened version of his name and not because of his mental actions.
Beaneaters, Pirates, Doves, Phillies, 1897-1910
Abbott, Dan [Leander Franklin]
Big Dan
Inspired by his size (5’11", 190 lbs.).
Maumees, 1890
Aber, Al [Albert Julius]
Lefty
Indians, Tigers, Athletics, 1950-1957
Abernathy, Talmadge (Lafayette)
Ted
An easier nickname than Tal.
Athletics, 1942-1944
Aberson, Clifford (Alexander)
Kif
Cubs, 1947-1949
Ables, Harry (Terrell)
Hans
Browns, Naps, Highlanders, 1905-1911
Abrams, Cal [Calvin Ross]
Abie
Dodgers, Reds, Pirates, 1949-1954
Abreu, Bobby [Bob Kelly] {ah-BRAY-oo}
El Come Dulce
La Leche
Astros, Phillies, Yankees, Angels, Dodgers, Mets, 1996-2014
Abreu, José (Dariel) {ah-BRAY-oo}
Oso
Yogi
Mal Tiempo
White Sox, 2014-
Abstein, William (Henry)
Big Bill
Six foot, 185, he was big for the time.
Pirates, Browns, 1906-1910
Aceves, Alfredo {a-SEV-ess}
Ace
Yankees, Red Sox, 2008-
Acosta, José
Acostica
In Spanish, meaning Little Acosta.
Senators, White Sox, 1920-1922
Acuña, Ron Jr. (Jose) [ah COON ya]
The Beast
From teammates for his rookie performance.
Braves, 2018-
Adair, Jerry [Kenneth Jerry]
Towhead
Casper the Friendly Ghost
Iceman
College football nickname.
Mr. Clutch
From broadcaster Ken Coleman.
Orioles, White Sox, Red Sox, Royals, 1958-1970
Adair, Jimmy [James Aubrey]
Choppy
Cubs, 1931
Adams, Charles (Benjamin)
Babe
The story of his nickname was given as: 1. A woman asking for an autograph said he had a nice round face like a baby’s; or 2. A female fan yelled at him, Oh, you babe.
Cardinals, Pirates, 1906-1926
Adams, Dan Le [Daniel Leslie]
Rube
Packers, 1914-1915
Adams, Dan Lu [Daniel Lucius]
Doc
Graduated from Harvard and had a general medical practice in New York.
Knickerbockers, 1853-1859
Adams, Earl (John)
Sparky
Cubs, Pirates, Cardinals, Reds, 1922-1934
Adams, Joe [Joseph Edward]
Wagon Tongue
His bat feels too heavy in the late part of the season, like the tongue of a wagon wheel stuck in the mud.
Cardinals, 1902
Adams, Karl (Tutwiler)
Rebel
Born in Georgia (rebel territory).
Reds, Cubs, 1914-1915
Adams, Lane (Weston)
LA Swiftness
Royals, Braves, 2014-2018
Adams, Matt [Matthew James]
Big City
Cardinals, Braves, Nationals, 2012-
Adduci, Jim (Charles)
Deuce
Rangers, Tigers, Cubs, 2013-2019
Addy, Bob [Robert Edward]
The Magnet
Forest Citys, Whites, Red Stockings, Dark Blues, White Stockings, Reds, 1871-1874
Adkins, Grady (Emmett)
Butcher Boy
White Sox, 1928-1929
Adleman, Tim [Timothy Max] {add-ull-man}
The Microwave
Reds, 2016-2017
Adrianza, Ehire (Enrique) {AY-ray ad-dree-AHN-zuh}
Guarenero
Giants, Twins, 2013-
Agganis, Harry
The Golden Greek
Greek heritage.
Red Sox, 1954-1955
Agnew, Sam [Samuel Lester]
Slam
Browns, Red Sox, Senators, 1913-1919
Aguilar, Jesus (Alexander) {AH-gee-lar}
Dino
Indians, Brewers, Rays, Marlins, 2014-
Ainsmith, Ed [Edward Wilbur]
Dorf
Senators, Tigers, Cardinals, Robins, Giants, 1910-1924
Aker, Jack [Jackie Delane]
Chief
A strong reliever.
Athletics, Pilots, Yankees, Cubs, Braves, Mets, 1964-1974
Akers, William (G)
Bump
Tigers, Braves, 1929-1932
Alberto, Hanser (Joel)
Radio
Rangers, Orioles, 2015-
Alberts, Francis (Burt)
Butch
Preceded his baseball career.
Blue Jays, 1978
Alberts, Frederick (Joseph)
Cy
Cardinals, 1910
Albosta, Edward (John)
Rube
Dodgers, Pirates, 1941, 1946
Alcock, John (Forbes)
Scotty
Played way before the Star Trek era, when Scotty became a household name.
White Sox, 1914
Alexander, David (Dale)
Moose
6’3", 210 lbs.
Tigers, Red Sox, 1929-1933
Alexander, Grover (Cleveland)
Pete
He called himself Pete, so his teammates did also.
Old Pete
Old Pete played until he was well into his 40s.
Alexander the Great
Leadership skills were likened to those of the ancient Greek ruler.
Phillies, Cubs, Cardinals, 1911-1930
Alexander, William (Henry)
Nin
Predates baseball career.
Cowboys, Browns, 1884
Alfaro, Jorge (Mario) {HOAR-hay al-FAR-oh}
The Legend
El Oso
Phillies, Marlins, 2016-
Alfonseca, Antonio {al-fahn-SAKE-ah}
El Pulpo
Spanish for ‘The Octopus.’
The Octopus
Ability to snag everything within arm’s reach.
Marlins, Cubs, Braves, Rangers, Phillies, 1997-2007
Alfonzo, Edgardo (Antonio)
Fonzie
Fonzie Fonzarelli of TV sitcom fame was the epitome of cool.
Mets, Giants, Angels, Blue Jays, 1995-2006
Allen, Artemus (Ward)
Nick
Roarin’ Nick
He had a penchant for arguing with umpires.
Buffeds, Blues, Cubs, Reds, 1914-1920
Allen, Cody (Edward)
Pollo
Indians, Angels, 2012-
Allen, Cyrus (Alban)
Jack
Stars, Blues, 1879
Allen, Fletcher (Manson)
Sled
Browns, 1910
Allen, Frank (Erwin)
Ham
Mansfields, 1872
Allen, Harold (Andrew)
Hank
Senators, Brewers, White Sox, 1966-1973
Allen, Horace (Tanner)
Pug
Robins, 1919
Allen, Jesse (Hall)
Pete
Spiders, 1893
Allen, Myron (Smith)
Zeke
Blues, Cowboys, Gothams, Beaneaters, 1883-1888
Allen, Richard (Anthony)
Wampum Walloper
Extreme strength, ability to hit the long ball, was born in Wampum, PA.
Crash Helmet
He wore his batting helmet on the field.
Crash
Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, White Sox, Athletics, 1963-1977
Allen, Robert (Earl)
Thin Man
At 6’1", only 165.
Phillies, 1937
Allred, Dale (LeBeau)
Beau
Indians, 1989-1991
Almeida, Rafael (D)
Mike
Reds, 1911-1913
Almonte, Abraham
El Varon
Mariners, Padres, Indians, Royals, Diamondbacks, 2013-Almora, Albert [Reinaldo Albert]
Tico
Cubs, 2016-
Alomá, Luis
Witto
White Sox, 1950-1953
Alomar, Santos Jr. {AL-oh-mar}
Sandy
A common nickname for Santos.
Padres, Indians, White Sox, Rockies, Rangers, Dodgers, Mets, 1988-2007
Alomar, Santos Sr. {AL-oh-mar}
Sandy
A common contraction of his first name.
Iron Pony
Played in 648 consecutive games.
Braves, Mets, White Sox, Angels, Yankees, Rangers, 1964-1978
Alonso, Pete [Peter Morgan]
Polar Bear
Mets, 2019-
Alonso, Yonder
Mr. 305
Reds, Padres, Athletics, Mariners, Indians, White Sox, Rockies, 2010-Alou, Felipe (Rojas)
El Panqué de Haina
Translates to Sweet bread from Haina. He was born in Bajos de Haina, San Cristobal, Dominican Republic.
Giants, Braves, Athletics, Yankees, Expos, Brewers, 1958-1974
Alou, Jesús {HAY-Zeus}
Jay
Given by sportswriters to avoid headlines like, Jesus Saves Giants,
before they determined the pronunciation.
Giants, Astros, Athletics, Mets, 1963-1979
Alpermann, Charles (Augustus)
Whitey
Superbas, 1906-1909
Alston, Walter (Emmons)
Smokey
G iven in high school because of his fastball.
The Quiet Man
G enerally calm, quiet demeanor.
Cardinals, 1936
Alten, Ernie [Ernest Matthias]
Lefty
Tigers, 1920
Altherr, Aaron (Samuel) {all-TAIR}
The Fresh Prince of Altherr
Rhineland Rocket
Phillies, Giants, Mets, 2014-2019
Altizer, David (Tilden)
Filipino
Born in Pearl, Illinois. He served in the Philippines during the Spanish-American war.
Daredevil
G iven to him in later stories.
Senators, Naps, White Sox, Reds, 1906-1911
Altman, George (Lee)
Big George
He was 6’4", 200 lbs.
Cubs, Cardinals, Mets, 1959-1967
Alvarado, José (Antonio)
El Pocho
Rays, 2017-
Alvarado, Luis (Cesar)
Pimba
‘Pimba’ is generally suggestive of sexual pleasures and bad behavior.
Mijita
Spanish term of endearment meaning my dear child.
Red Sox, White Sox, Cardinals, Indians, Mets, Tigers, 1968-1977
Alvarez, Henderson (Javier III)
The Entertainer
Blue Jays, Marlins, Phillies, 2011-
Álvarez, Pedro (Manuel)
El Toro
Pirates, Orioles, 2010-2018
Alvord, William (Crawford)
Uncle Bill
Usually given to an older player, but he was only 21 when he made the majors.
Cowboys, Maumees, Spiders, Statesmen, 1885-1893
Amarista, Alexi (Jose) {ah-mah-REE-sta}
Little Ninja
Versatility and strength, despite his small (5’5", 150 lbs.) body size.
Mighty Mouse
Small, but powerful.
Angels, Padres, 2011 -
Ambres, Raymond (Payne) {AM-briss}
Chip
Royals, Mets, Padres, 2005-2008
Ames, Leon (Kessling)
Red
Giants, Reds, Cardinals, Phillies, 1903-19
Amole, Morris (F) {ah- MOE-lee}
Doc
From boyhood. Not educational.
Orioles, Senators, 1897-1898
Amorós, Edmundo {AM-or-ohs}
Sandy
Resemblance to boxing champion Sandy Saddler.
Dodgers, Tigers, 1952-1960
Andersen, Larry (Eugene)
LA
Mr. Jello
Indians, Mariners, Phillies, Astros, Red Sox, Padres, 1975-1994
Anderson, Arnold (Revola)
Red
Senators, 1937-1941
Anderson, Brian (James)
Antic
Angels, Indians, Diamondbacks, Royals, 1993-2005
Anderson, Chase [Robert Chase]
Texas
Diamondbacks, Brewers, Blue Jays, 2014-
Anderson, Edward (John)
Goat
Pirates, 1907
Anderson, George (Lee)
Sparky
Given by a broadcaster for his feisty play in the Texas League in 1955.
Captain Hook
Penchant for yanking his starting pitcher at the first sign of weakness.
Phillies, 1959
Anderson, Harry (Walter)
Harry the Horse
6’3", 205 lbs.
Phillies, Reds, 1957-1961
Anderson, John (Joseph)
Honest John
Rarely protested calls by umpires.
Long John
Because he was 6’2" tall.
Big John
Lest anyone forget how tall he was.
Terrible Swede
He was born in Norway.
Swedish Apollo
For his Scandinavian roots.
Grooms, Bridegrooms, Senators, Superbas, Brewers, Browns, Yankees, Senators, White Sox,1894-1908
Anderson, Karl (Adam)
Bud
Indians, 1982-1983
Anderson, Tim [Timothy Devon]
B. Moss
White Sox, 2016-
Anderson, Tyler (John)
Ricky F
Rockies, Giants, 2016-
Anderson, Walter (Carl)
Lefty
Athletics, 1917, 1919
Anderson, William (Edward)
Lefty
Braves, 1925
Andres, Ernest (Henry)
Junie
He was Ernest Jr.
Red Sox, 1946
Andrews, Ivy (Paul)
Poison
Named after poison ivy because his pitching ability was noxious poison to opposing batters.
Yankees, Red Sox, Browns, Indians, 1931-1938
Andrews, Stanley (Joseph)
Polo
Bees, Dodgers, Phillies, 1939-1945
Andrus, Elvis (Augusto) {an-DROOS}
Comando
Rangers, 2009-
Ankenman, Frederick (Norman)
Pat
Cardinals, Dodgers, 1936-1944
Anson, Adrian (Constantine)
Capt
From teammates; he was the captain of the Chicago White Stockings.
Uncle
He was the oldest member of the team.
The Marshalltown Infant
Pop
Obvious - he played for 27 years.
Cap
From baseball writers and historians after his retirement.
Forest Citys, Athletics, White Stockings, Colts, 1871-1897
Aparicio, Luis (Ernesto) {ap-pa-REESE-ee-oh}
El Grande de Venezeula
Spanish for the big guy from Venezuela.
Obviously, he was born in Venezuela.
Little Louis
His father was also Luis.
Luisito
Spanish for Little Louie.
White Sox, Orioles, Red Sox, 1956-1973
Appier, Kevin [Robert Kevin] {APE-ee-er}
Ape
Royals, Athletics, Mets, Angels, 1989-2004
Applegate, Frederick (Romaine)
Snitz
Athletics, 1904
Appleton, Edward (Samuel)
Whitey
Robins, 1915-1916
Appleton, Peter (William)
Jake
Jabby
A short version of his birth name, Jablonowski.
Polish Wizard
Polish extraction.
Reds, Indians, Red Sox, Yankees, Senators, White Sox, Browns, 1927-1945
Appling, Lucius (Benjamin)
Luke
Luscious Luke
Ol’ Aches and Pains
Given by teammates because of the constant complaining of a hypochondriac.
White Sox, 1930-1950
Aragón, Ángel (father)
Pete
Yankees, 1914-1917
Aragón, Angel (son)
Jack
Giants, 1941
Archdeacon, Maurice (John)
Flash
Comet
Both nicknames came from his minor league days when he set a speed record of 13.4 seconds to circle the bases. It
was a pre-game exhibition.
White Sox, 1923-1925
Archer, Chris [Christopher Alan]
Flaco Fuerte
Rays, Pirates, 2012-
Archer, Frederick (Marvin)
Lefty
Athletics, 1936-1937
Arcia, Orlando (Jesus) {ARR-see-ya}
El Nino
Brewers, 2016-
Ardizoia, Rinaldo (Joseph)
Rugger
Yankees, 1947
Ardner, Joseph (A)
Old Hoss
No relation to Dan Blocker (Hoss Cartwright of Bonanza).
Blues, Spiders, 1884, 1890
Arenado, Nolan (James)
Sandblaster
Rockies, 2013-
Arencibia, Jonathan (Paul) {ar-en-SEE-bee-ah}
J.P.
Blue Jays, Rangers, 2010 -
Arft, Hank [Henry Irven]
Bow Wow
His name sounds like Little Orphan Anñe’s dog, Sandy, in the radio show.
Bill Veeck sent a teletype message offering to sell Arft’s contract. The machine jammed and printed, ARFARFARFARFARFARFARF.
Hank Greenberg replied that Veeck should keep that dog in St. Louis.
It may have had something to do with getting the nickname to stick.
Browns, 1948-1952
Arlett, Russell (Loris) {ar-LET}
Buzz
Cut through opposing batters like a buzz saw.
Phillies, 1931
Armstrong, Noble (George)
Dodo
Athletics, 1946
Arnold, Willis (S)
Billy
Mansfields, 1872
Arnovich, Morris
Snooker
Proficient at the British style of billiards.
Son of Israel
As a Jewish player, he kept kosher for his entire career.
Phillies, Reds, Giants, 1936-1946
Arntzen, Orie (Edgar)
Old Folks
Major league debut at the age of 33.
Athletics, 1943
Arrieta, Jake [Jacob Joseph] {air-ee-etta}
Snake
Orioles, Cubs, Phillies, 2010-
Arroyo, Bronson (Anthony)
Saturn Nuts
From a Red Sox booster club because he was viewed as a young kid pitching in high pressure situations but not letting anything get to him.
Smokey
Tacks
Dirty
BroYo
Free Love
Pirates, Red Sox, Reds, Diamondbacks 2000-2017
Arundel, John (Thomas)
Tug
Athletics, Blue Stockings, Hoosiers, Nationals, 1882-1888
Asbell, James (Marion)
Big Train
Cubs, 1938
Asbjornson, Robert (Anthony)
Casper
He changed his name to Asby,
after his career was under way.
Red Sox, Reds, 1928-1932
Ashburn, Richie [Don Richard]
Put-Put
A name given him by either Ted Williams or Stan Musial because he ran so fast you would think he had twin motors in his pants.
Tilden Flash
He was born in Tilden, Nebraska.
Whitey
Phillies, Cubs, Mets, 1948-1962
Asher, Alec (Edward)
The Big Cat
Phillies, Orioles, Brewers, 2015-2018
Ashford, Thomas (Steven)
Tucker
Padres, Rangers, Yankees, Mets, Royals, 1976-1984
Ashley, Billy (Manual)
Light-Tower Power
A strong hitter with enough power to put the ball over the light towers.
Dodgers, Red Sox, 1992-1998
Astudillo, Willians (Jose) {ah-stew-DEE-yo}
Tortuga
Twins, 2018-
Atherton, Charles (Morgan Herbert)
Prexy
His father was the president of Penn State University.
Senators, 1899
Atkins, Francis (Montgomery)
Tommy
Athletics, 1909-1910
Atkinson, Hubert (Burley)
Lefty
Senators, 1927
Atwell, Maurice (Dailey)
Toby
Cubs, Pirates, Braves, 1952-1956
Atz, Jacob (Henry)
John
John is a nickname because some people mistakenly thought he changed his name. He didn’t.
Senators, White Sox, 1902-1909
Aubrey, Harry (Herbert)
Chub
Beaneaters, 1903
Auerbach, Frederick (Steven)
Rick
A not-very-common shortening of his first name.
Brewers, Dodgers, Reds, Mariners, 1971-1981
Auker, Elden (LeRoy) {OCK-er}
Submarine
A submarine style pitcher.
Big Six
A college nickname. He played in the Big Six conference.
Mule Ears
From and used by manager Mickey Cochrane.
Tigers, Red Sox, Browns, 1933-1942
Aulds, Leycester (Doyle)
Tex
Grew up in Corpus Cristi, Texas.
Red Sox, 1947
Austin, James (Philip)
Pepper
The Pepper Kid
Given by manager George Stallings because he liked Austin’s hustle.
Yankees, Browns, 1909-1929
Autry, Martin (Gordon)
Chick
Yankees, Indians, White Sox, 1924-1930
Autry, William (Askew)
Chick
Reds, Doves, 1907, 1909
Averill, Howard (Earl) {A-ver-ill}
Rock
He had a powerful build and bulging forearms.
The Earl of Snohomish
Born in Snohomish, Washington.
Indians, Tigers, Braves, 1929-1941
Avila, Alex [Alexander Thomas]
Titanium Catcher
Tigers, White Sox, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Twins, 2009-Avrea, James (Epherium)
Jay
Reds, 1959
Axford, John (Berton)
The Ax Man
Either a pun based on his last name or a name given him for his ability to give batters the axe.
Brewers, Cardinals, Indians, 2009-
Ayala, Benigno {eye-ALL-ah}
Felix
Félix was his mother’s maiden name.
Mets, Cardinals, Orioles, Indians, 1974-1985
Aybar, Erick (Johan) {EYE-bar}
Admiral
Angels, Braves, Tigers, Padres, 2006-
Ayers, Yancy (Wyatt)
Doc
Went to medical school, although he quit to concentrate on baseball.
Senators, Tigers, 1913-1921
Aylward, Richard (John)
Dandy
Indians, 1953
Azcue, José (Joaquin)
The Immortal Azcue
Known for his strong throwing arm.
Reds, Athletics, Indians, Red Sox, Angels, Brewers, 1960-1972
Babe, Loren (Rolland)
Bee Bee
Yankees, Angels, 1952-1953
Babitt, Mack (Neal)
Shooty
Athletics, 1981
Backman, Walter (Wayne)
Cabbage Patch
Mets, Twins, Pirates, Phillies, Mariners, 1980-1993
Baczewski, Fred [Frederic John] {BAA-jess-key}
Lefty
Cubs, Reds, 1953-1955
Bader, Lore (Verne)
King
Iron Man
Two Pairs
He loved playing cards. Given by the Sporting News, based on his minor league career.
Giants, Red Sox, 1912-1918
Badgro, Morris (Hiram)
Red
Browns, 1929-1930
Baerga, Carlos (Obed) {By-AIR-ga}
One if...
Chris Berman-ism; One if by land, two if by sea, three if by air-ga, because of his ability to hit triples.
Indians, Mets, Padres, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, 1990-2004
Báez, Javier [Ednel Javier]
El Mago
Cubs, 2014-
Báez, Pedro (Alberys)
The Human Rain Delay
La Mula
Dodgers, 2014-
Bagby, James Sr. (Charles Jacob)
Sarge
From teammates, based on a character in a Broadway play at the time.
Reds, Indians, Pirates, 1912-1923
Bagwell, Jeff [Jeffrey Robert]
Brown Paper
A Chris Berman-ism, introducing his name as "Jeff Brown Paper Bagwell.
BagPipes
Astros, 1991-2005
Bagwell, William (Mallory)
Big Bill
His 6’1", 175 lb. stature.
Braves, Athletics, 1923, 1925
Bahnsen, Stanley (Raymond)
Bahnsen Burner
Based on the chem lab instrument.
Stanley Struggle
Was able to keep runners stranded.
Bonce
Yankees, White Sox, Athletics, Expos, Angels, 1966-1982
Bailey, Abraham (Lincoln) Sweetbread
Cubs, Robins, 1919-1921
Bailey, David (Dewitt)
Homer
Terrible name for a pitcher but he was actually named for his grandfather.
Reds, Royals, Athletics, Twins, 2007-
Bailey, Frederick (Middleton)
Penny
Braves, 1916-1918
Bailey, Harry (Lewis)
Bill
The popular song of the era was, Won’t you come home, Bill Bailey?
Yankees, 1911
Bailey, Linwood (Clifton)
King
Ace of his minor league team.
Reds, 1895
Baker, Charles
Bock
Smiling Bock
Blues, Athletics, 1901
Baker, Jesse
Tiny
Senators, 1919
Baker, John (Franklin)
Home Run
Teammates gave him this name because of two home runs. They were hit in championship games, where they counted most. He consistently led the league in home runs . . . with 12 in his best season.
Athletics, Yankees, 1908-1924
Baker, Johnnie (B)
Dusty
Braves, Dodgers, Giants, Athletics, 1968-1986
Baker, Kirtley
Whitey
Alleghenys, Orioles, Senators, 1890-1899
Baker, Thomas (Calvin)
Rattlesnake
Dodgers, Giants, 1935-1938
Bakley, Edward (Enoch)
Jersey
Athletics, Keystones, Quicksteps, Cowboys, Blues, Spiders, Infants, Statesmen, Orioles, 1883-1891
Balas, Mitchell (Francis)
Mike
Bees, 1938
Balboni, Stephen (Charles)
Bye-Bye
He said that to the ball when he hit a home run. Pitchers said it to him when he struck out.
Bones
A malapropism for Balboni.
Ug From high school
Yankees, Royals, Mariners, Rangers, 1981-1993
Baldelli, Rocco (Dan)
The Woonsocket Rocket
He was fast and from Woonsocket, RI.
Devil Rays, Rays, Red Sox, 2003-2010
Baldwin, Charles (B)
Lady
Because of his quiet ways
and his refusal to swear or come into contact with liquor or tobacco.
Brewers, Wolverines, Bridegrooms, Bisons, 1884-1890
Baldwin, Clarence (Geoghan)
Kid
A nickname given in the 19th century to scrappy, feisty little athletes.
Cowboys, Browns, Unions, Red Stockings, Reds, Athletics, 1884-1890
Baldwin, Henry (Clay)
Ted
Phillies, 1927
Baldwin, Howard (Edward)
Harry
Giants, 1924-1925
Baldwin, Mark [Marcus Elmore]
Fido
White Stockings, Solons, White Sox, Pirates, Giants, 1887-1893
Baldwin, Robert (Harvey)
Billy
Tigers, Mets, 1975-1976
Bamberger, Harold (Earl)
Dutch
Giants, 1948
Bancker, John (V)
Studs
Elm Citys, 1875
Bancroft, David (James)
Beauty
Given by other players for his habit of calling good pitches he missed as a beauty.
Phillies, Giants, Braves, Robins, 1915-1930
Bando, Sal [Salvatore Leonard]
Captain Sal
Athletics, Brewers, 1966-1981
Bandy, Jett (Adam)
Sinker-Slider
Angels, Brewers, 2015-2018
Banks, Ernie [Ernest]
Mr. Cub
Spent his entire career with one club.
Mr. Sunshine
This speaks to his disposition.
Cubs, 1953-1971
Bannon, James (Henry)
Foxy Grandpa
Strange, since he was in his 20s as a player. Thomas Bannon was his OLDER brother.
Browns, Beaneaters, 1893-1896
Bannon, Thomas (Edward)
Ward Six
Uncle Tom
Giants, 1895-1896
Barbare, Walter (Lawrence) {BAW-bar}
Dinty
Naps, Indians, Red Sox, Pirates, Braves, 1914-1922
Barbary, Donald (Odell)
Red
Senators, 1943
Barbeau, William (Joseph)
Jap
Naps, Pirates, Cardinals, 1905-1910
Barclay, George (Oliver)
Deerfoot
He was fleet of foot.
The Rose
He had an eye for the ladies and was concerned with his looks.
Cardinals, Beaneaters, 1902-1905
Barfoot, Clyde (Raymond)
Foots
Cardinals, Tigers, 1922-1926
Barger, Eros (Bolivar)
Cy
Highlanders, Superbas, Dodgers, Rebels, 1906-1915
Barker, Len [Leonard Harold]
Large Lenny
Rangers, Indians, Braves, Brewers, 1976-1987
Barker, Raymond (Herrell)
Buddy
Orioles, Indians, Yankees, 1960-1967
Barmes, Bruce (Raymond)
Squaky
Senators, 1953
Barna, Herbert (Paul)
Babe
Athletics,