World War II claimed it share of careers, and potential careers. Left-hander Leo Bobeck is a prime example: starting his pro career late, at age 22, he posted a 19-3 record in 1939, leading to his acquisition by the Dodgers. The Reds acquired him a year later, and he looked ready to break through with a 15-4 record in the Sally League in 1941.
He went to camp with the Reds in 1942, but Uncle Sam beckoned him, and he spent the next three-plus years in the U.S. Navy. The end of the war allowed him to return to baseball in 1945, but despite an excellent ERA, he was 30, and retired to a career in the U.S. Postal Service.
Photo from the Lexibell files.
