Eddie Gaedel: Meet the Shortest Player in MLB History

By Jocelyn Alano May 29, 2024 16:17

The infamously little person that is Eddie Gaedel, was no ordinary player in major league history. At 3-7, weighing a mere 60 pounds, he was the smallest player to ever play Major League Baseball. In this inspiring article, we are going to reveal to you the incredible story behind Eddie Gaedel.

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Who Was Eddie Gaedel?

Eddie Gaedel was born on June 8, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois to American parents of average physical stature. He also had a harmonious relationship with the opportunity that existed for people of his stature, working in promotional roles such as circuses, rodeos, and stores.

Gaedel's Historic Game

Gaedel became a part of baseball history on August 19, 1951, during a doubleheader featuring the St. Louis Browns and Detroit Tigers at Sportsmans Park. Browns owner Bill Veeck, a legendary promoter of the first order, engineered one of his most bizarre attention-grabbers by putting Gaedel in at-bat.

Gaedel wore uniform number "1⁄8," a one-and-an-eighth designation that was both cute and symbolic of the mystery to come. It immediately caught the attention of baseball fans everywhere for being a move that had never been attempted before.

When Gaedel stepped into the batter's box: The umpires immediately tried to stop it, but Veeck had made sure Gaedel's authentic contract was waiting and he was able to execute the paperwork in time for Gaedel's official appearance. Eddie ended up drawing a walk which can be attributed to the tiny strike zone.

Life After Baseball

Gaedel never played another game after his iconic plate appearance as Major League Baseball voided his contract. Less than a year later, Gaedel died in a Chicago bowling alley in his hometown on June 18, 1961, at 41.

Despite making only one appearance in the major leagues, Gaedel's legacy has lasted. His influence reached far beyond the game, forever etching his place in baseball lore.

Gaedel's grandnephew, Kyle Gaedele, also played minor league baseball at a high level. Also, because of its rarity, Gaedel's autograph is considered one of the most famous as it fetches more than Babe Ruth.

All in all, Eddie Gaedel's fleeting but unforgettable moment on the baseball diamond speaks volumes of the resilience and legacy a human can leave behind. Indeed, his imprint is versatile and transcends the image of greatness in all its glory.