Greg Harts facts for kids

Gregory Rudolph Harts (born April 21, 1950) is an American former professional baseball player. He played for the New York Mets in 1973. Even though he didn't play in the field in the Major Leagues, he was mostly an outfielder in the minor leagues.

Early Career in Baseball

Greg Harts started his baseball journey when the New York Mets signed him in 1970. This was when he was still an amateur player. He spent his early years playing for different teams in the minor leagues. These are leagues where players develop their skills before reaching the Major Leagues.

In 1971, Greg played for the Marion Mets in the Rookie League. He also had a few games with the Pompano Beach Mets. Later that year, he joined the Visalia Mets.

Moving Up the Ranks

By 1972, Greg Harts was playing for the Memphis Blues. This team was in the Double-A league, which is a higher level of minor league baseball. His manager, Johnny Antonelli, thought Greg had good speed and a strong arm. He also liked Greg's hitting. Antonelli believed Greg had a good chance to make it to the main team. After the 1972 season, Greg was added to the Mets' special 40-man roster. This meant he was closer to playing in the Major Leagues.

Major League Debut

In 1973, Greg Harts got his chance to play for the New York Mets. He made his first appearance in a Major League game on September 15, 1973. This happened at Shea Stadium against the Chicago Cubs. Greg came into the game as a pinch hitter. A pinch hitter is a player who bats in place of another player, usually the pitcher.

A Memorable First Hit

Greg Harts made his debut special by getting a hit in his very first time at bat. This is a great achievement for any baseball player. However, he only had one more time at bat in 1973. After that, he never played in the Major Leagues again.

The Mets were doing very well that season. They moved into first place in their division. The crowds at the stadium were huge and very excited. Some of the younger players, like Greg, were amazed by the big crowds.

After the Major Leagues

In 1974, Greg Harts continued to play in the minor leagues. He started the season with the Tidewater Tides, a Triple-A team. Triple-A is the highest level of minor league baseball. However, he was later sent to the Victoria Toros.

Greg even tried to become a pitcher in 1975. But this attempt did not lead to a Major League pitching career.

His Nickname

Greg Harts was known by a fun nickname: "The Peanut Man."