Jim Bagby (bagbyji01)

James Charles Jacob Bagby Sr.
(Sarge)

• Bats Both, Throws Right
• Height 6' 0", Weight 170 lb.

• Debut April 22, 1912
• Final Game September 7, 1923
• Born October 5, 1889 in Barnett, GA USA
• Died July 28, 1954 in Marietta, GA USA

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Biographical Information

Pitcher Jim Bagby began his pro career in 1911 and made it to the majors with the Cincinnati Reds in 1912, appearing in 5 games for the team before returning to the minors. While playing in the Southern Association, he collided with a teammate, fracturing his forearm. Ironically, the injury seemed to have the effect of improving his curveball.

Bagby was soon acquired by the Cleveland Indians and won 73 games from 1916 to 1919. In 1920, he had his best big league season, going 31-12 with a 2.89 ERA and leading the American League in wins as the Indians reached the World Series. In Game 5, he earned a complete game win and also became the first pitcher to hit a home run in the World Series when he connected with a three-run shot off Hall of Famer Burleigh Grimes of the Brooklyn Robins. Despite Bagby's heroics, that game is best remembered by most for Bill Wambsganss turning the only unassisted triple play in Fall Classic history in the 5th inning. Jim's ERA went up dramatically in each of his next two seasons with the Indians. After spending the 1923 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, he retired as a player.

Following his playing days, "Sarge" was a minor league umpire. His son, Jim Bagby, Jr., pitched in the majors for a decade before, during, and after World War II. Both Bagbys were later inducted in the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

Notable Achievements

• AL Wins Leader (1920)
• AL Winning Percentage Leader (1920)
• 2-time AL Games Pitched Leader (1918 & 1920)
• AL Innings Pitched Leader (1920)
• AL Complete Games Leader (1920)
• 15 Wins Seasons: 5 (1916-1920)
• 20 Wins Seasons: 2 (1917 & 1920)
• 25 Wins Seasons: 1 (1920)
• 30 Wins Seasons: 1 (1920)
• 200 Innings Pitched Seasons: 5 (1916-1920)
• 300 Innings Pitched Seasons: 2 (1917 & 1920)
• Won a World Series with the Cleveland Indians in 1920

Related Sites

• Jim Bagby Sr. at the SABR Bio Project
• Find-A-Grave Memorial for Jim Bagby