Tony Malinosky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tony Malinosky |
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| Third baseman / Shortstop | |||
| Born: October 7, 1909 Collinsville, Illinois |
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| Died: February 8, 2011 (aged 101) Oxnard, California |
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| debut | |||
| April 26, 1937, for the Brooklyn Dodgers | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| July 16, 1937, for the Brooklyn Dodgers | |||
| MLB statistics | |||
| Batting average | .228 | ||
| Home runs | 0 | ||
| Runs batted in | 3 | ||
| Teams | |||
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Tony Malinosky (born October 7, 1909 – died February 8, 2011) was an American baseball player. He played as a third baseman and shortstop in Major League Baseball. Tony played in 35 games for the Brooklyn Dodgers during the 1937 season. He was 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighed 165 pounds. Tony batted and threw with his right hand.
Contents
Tony Malinosky's Early Life and Baseball Dreams
Tony Malinosky was born in Collinsville, Illinois. His parents were immigrants from Lithuania. From a very young age, Tony loved baseball. When he was just 5 years old, he decided he wanted to be a baseball player.
High School and College Baseball
Tony was a great player in school. He was the captain of the baseball team at El Monte High School. After high school, he went to Whittier College. There, he continued to play baseball. A famous person, future US President Richard Nixon, was one of his classmates.
Starting His Professional Baseball Career
Tony Malinosky signed his first professional contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. This was a big step towards his dream. Later, in 1936, the Pirates sold his contract to the Brooklyn Dodgers. This meant he would play for the Dodgers.
Tony Malinosky's Time in Major League Baseball
Tony Malinosky played for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1937. He played in 35 games for the team. He was a versatile player, able to play both third baseman and shortstop.
Tony Malinosky's Service in World War II
Baseball was not the only important part of Tony's life. During World War II, he joined the United States Army. He bravely served his country. Tony even fought in a very important battle called the Battle of the Bulge.
Later Life and Legacy
Tony Malinosky lived a very long life. He moved to Oxnard, California in 1976 and lived there for many years. He was married to his high school sweetheart, Viola, for 64 years. She passed away in 1999.
Honored by the Dodgers
In 2009, the Los Angeles Dodgers honored Tony. They celebrated his 100th birthday at Dodger Stadium. The team released a statement after he passed away. They said Tony lived a very full life. They also mentioned he was a Dodger fan his whole life. His visit to the stadium was a special moment for everyone.
Passing Away at 101
Tony Malinosky passed away on February 8, 2011. He was 101 years old. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living Major League Baseball player. His life showed great dedication to baseball and his country.
See also
- List of centenarians (Major League Baseball players)
- List of centenarians (sportspeople)
