|
Frank Thomas Finished As A Pirate?
Oct 10 1962
Washington Observer
Pittsburgh Penn
The career of the only Pirate to play every year from their inception in 1951 may be over. The Observer has learned the Pirates have declined to exercise Frank Thomas' contract option for 1963.
Thomas is a four time All Star and led the National League in home runs in 1959 with 36. He is the Pirates' all time leader in Games Played, At Bats, Runs, Total Bases, Home Runs, and RBIs.
In recent years Thomas has mostly played third base although not a stand out fielder there. Now the Pirates consider Bob Bailey as their third baseman of the future and the competition at Thomas' other positions, first base and left field, is strong.
Thomas saw little playing time in 62 after losing the job at third base in Spring Training. Dick Stuart started 158 games at first base and led Major League Baseball with 47 home runs. Left fielder Felipe Alou started 153 games and led the National league in Runs Scored.
While he functioned as a backup for these positions in 62, the Pirates decision indicates they believe that role does not exist for him in 63. AAA players Donn Clendenon and Willie Stargell should be major league ready next year. Each can play either first base or left field. And Joe Christopher will reprise his 62 role as a backup corner outfielder.
Thomas remains a capable player and is likely to sign with another team. Although unconfirmed, rumor is that Thomas' contract buyout cost the Pirates $10,000. "It would be super strange to be paid not to play" he said. Pirates GM Anne Bonny declined comment on the Thomas' situation.
Frank Thomas, Joe Christopher
|