Glenn Beckert facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Glenn Beckert |
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Beckert in 1973
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| Second baseman | |||
| Born: October 12, 1940 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
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| Died: April 12, 2020 (aged 79) Englewood, Florida, U.S. |
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| debut | |||
| April 12, 1965, for the Chicago Cubs | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| April 27, 1975, for the San Diego Padres | |||
| MLB statistics | |||
| Batting average | .283 | ||
| Home runs | 22 | ||
| Runs batted in | 360 | ||
| Teams | |||
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| Career highlights and awards | |||
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Glenn Alfred Beckert (born October 12, 1940 – died April 12, 2020) was an American professional baseball player. He played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB). Glenn spent nine seasons with the Chicago Cubs from 1965 to 1973. He then finished his career with the San Diego Padres in 1975. He was a four-time All-Star and won a special award called the Gold Glove Award.
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Playing Baseball
Glenn Beckert grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He went to Perry Traditional Academy. There, he was recognized as a top player in both baseball and basketball. He graduated from high school in 1958. After high school, Glenn went to Allegheny College. He continued to play college baseball there. In 1962, he earned a degree in political science.
Starting His Pro Career
The Boston Red Sox signed Glenn Beckert in 1962. This means they were the first professional team to offer him a contract. Later that year, the Chicago Cubs picked him from the Red Sox. This happened during a special player draft. Glenn spent three years playing in the minor leagues. He played as a shortstop during this time. In 1964, he was a leader in his league for making important plays.
Time with the Cubs
In 1964, the Cubs' second baseman, Ken Hubbs, sadly passed away. Because of this, the Cubs brought Glenn Beckert to the major leagues. He became their main second baseman for the 1965 season. Glenn played nine seasons as the Cubs' second baseman. He often played alongside shortstop Don Kessinger. In his first year, Glenn led the National League in assists. He was also known as a tough batter. He was one of the best at not striking out often.
In 1968, Glenn led the league in runs scored. He also won the National League's Gold Glove Award. This award is given to the best defensive players. He broke a streak of five wins by another great player, Bill Mazeroski. In 1969, Glenn was chosen for his first of four straight All-Star Games. His best hitting season was in 1971. He hit for a .342 batting average. This was the third-highest in the National League that year.
Moving to the Padres
After the 1973 season, the Cubs traded Glenn Beckert. He went to the San Diego Padres. He played as a utility infielder and pinch hitter for the Padres. A utility player can play many positions. A pinch hitter bats in place of another player. He was released by the Padres in May 1975. Glenn Beckert is also a member of the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame.
Career Highlights
Over his 11-year career, Glenn Beckert played in 1,320 games. He had 1,473 hits. His career batting average was .283. He hit 22 Home runs and had 360 runs batted in. He was a very good defensive player, with a .973 fielding percentage.
Personal Life
Glenn Beckert married Mary Marshall in November 1967. She worked as a flight attendant. Glenn Beckert passed away on April 12, 2020.
See also
- List of Major League Baseball annual runs scored leaders
