Ira Thomas

Ira Felix Thomas

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 2", Weight 200 lb.

• Debut May 18, 1906
• Final Game June 18, 1915
• Born January 22, 1881 in Ballston Spa, NY USA
• Died October 11, 1958 in Philadelphia, PA USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Connie Mack (left) and Thomas, 1914

Ira Thomas was the first successful pinch hitter in the history of the World Series. While playing for the Detroit Tigers, he stroked a single while batting for Charley O'Leary against the Chicago Cubs' Mordecai "Three Finger" Brown in the 9th inning of Game 1 of the 1908 World Series.

He was a catcher for the Philadelphia Athletics during the time of the $100,000 infield.

After he retired, Thomas coached Williams College from 1914-1919. He then became a Philadelphia Athletics coach and manager Connie Mack's chief scout. He recommended several players, most notably Lefty Grove and George Earnshaw to the Athletics.

Notable Achievements

• Won three World Series with the Philadelphia Athletics (1910, 1911 & 1913 - he did not play in the 1913 World Series)

Related Sites

• Ira Thomas at the SABR Bio Project