Tony Boeckel

Norman Doxie Boeckel

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 10½", Weight 175 lb.

• Debut July 23, 1917
• Final Game October 6, 1923
• Born August 25, 1892 in Los Angeles, CA USA
• Died February 16, 1924 in Torrey Pines, CA USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Tony Boeckel had a six-year career in the major leagues before he died prematurely.

Tony's minor league career started in 1913 with Stockton, and he played in 1914-15 with Tacoma. In 1916-17, he was with Great Falls. For a third baseman of his era, he was a pretty good hitter and adequate glove man. He had his best offensive year in 1921 when he hit .312 with 13 triples, 10 home runs, and 20 stolen bases for the Boston Braves. His 84 RBI were also among the league leaders. He was the same age as teammate Billy Southworth; the two of them were among the better hitters on the Braves from 1921 to 1923.

While driving on February 15, 1924, Boeckel was involved in a collision with a truck. After leaving his vehicle, he was struck by a passing car and died the next day. He was the first active major leaguer to die in an automobile accident. Heinie Reitz had been the first such former major leaguer. Art Allison was a pedestrian when he was struck and killed by a truck while trying to cross a street in heavy snow in 1916.

Records Held

• Most at bats, extra inning game, 11, 5/1/20 (tied)

Related Sites

• Tony Boeckel at the SABR Bio Project