Dutch Mele

Albert Ernest Mele

• Bats Left, Throws Left
• Height 6' 0", Weight 195 lb.
• Debut September 14, 1937
• Final Game October 3, 1937
• Born January 11, 1915 in New York, NY USA
• Died February 12, 1975 in Hollywood, FL USA

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Biographical Information

Dutch Mele came up as a 22-year-old outfielder for one season with the Cincinnati Reds in 1937. At the time, the outfield was composed of two future Hall of Famers - Kiki Cuyler and Chick Hafey - and Ival Goodman, who led the team in runs, hits, doubles, and triples.

Dutch didn't make it back to the majors, but had a whole career in Syracuse. He was with the Syracuse Chiefs from 1942 to 1947 and in 1949 and 1950. He hit 111 home runs while with them, which is still the club record. He also holds the franchise record for most games played.

Mele ran a nightclub in Oak Tree, New Jersey after retirement from baseball. It was called "Dutch Mele's Dugout."

In 2009 he was elected to the International League Hall of Fame.