Babe Barna

Herbert Paul Barna

• Bats Left, Throws Right
• Height 6' 2", Weight 210 lb.
• School West Virginia University
• High School Bridgeport (WV) High School
• Debut June 16, 1937
• Final Game July 28, 1943
• Born March 2, 1915 in Clarksburg, WV USA
• Died May 18, 1972 in Charleston, WV USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Babe Barna was an all-around star while at the West Virginia University where he set a single season record, batting .485. He also starred in football and basketball while with the Mountaineers. He first played for Connie Mack's Philadelphia Athletics after being scouted by Ira Thomas, but was never given much time despite his impressive start during his rookie season in 1937. His best season in the majors was with the New York Giants in 1942. Barna had many good years playing in the minors, retiring in 1952.

He was the son of an immigrant family from Hungary. His father was a coal miner and an older brother had been a football star in high school, but died of gangrene after suffering an injury while playing. This may have influenced Herbert's decision not to play football professionally.

• Led American Association in stolen bases in 1941 (29)
• Led American Association in home runs in 1944, 1945 (24; 25)
• Led Southern Association in batting average in 1951 (.358)

Related Sites

• Babe Barna at the SABR Bio Project