Bobby Shantz, MLB’s Oldest Living MVP, Nears 100th Birthday

Bobby Shantz, one of baseball’s most remarkable underdog stories, is about to hit a milestone few athletes ever see — his 100th birthday. On September 26, in his hometown of Ambler, Pennsylvania, where he’s lived for more than 70 years, the former Philadelphia Athletics ace will celebrate a century of life packed with legendary baseball moments and a stubborn love for the game.

This is the story of a 5-foot-6 pitcher who became a giant in Major League Baseball history. He won the 1952 American League MVP and left a mark on America’s pastime that’s tough to forget.

The Season That Defined an MVP

In 1952, Bobby Shantz put together one of the finest seasons ever for a pitcher his size — both literally and in terms of his career. At just 5-foot-6, Shantz didn’t fit the mold for a big-league ace, but he didn’t seem to care.

Beating Out Baseball’s Biggest Stars

That year, Shantz went an incredible 24-7 with a 2.48 ERA, leading the league in wins, strikeout-to-walk ratio, and complete games. His stats weren’t just good — they were historic.

He edged out Yankees legends like Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, and Allie Reynolds for the American League MVP, launching himself into baseball stardom. In the 1952 All-Star Game, Shantz showed off again, striking out three titans — Jackie Robinson, Stan Musial, and Whitey Lockman — all in one dazzling burst.

A Career of Consistency and Excellence

Shantz’s career stretched across 16 seasons, from the early ‘50s into the mid-‘60s. He finished with a lifetime record of 119-99 and a 3.38 ERA, proof that he could adapt and endure as baseball kept changing around him.

World Series Glory and Gold Gloves

People still talk about Shantz as one of the best fielding pitchers in baseball history. He won eight Gold Glove Awards, which is no small feat.

His reflexes and athleticism let him take outfield reps in practice, just for fun. In 1958, he helped the New York Yankees clinch the World Series championship.

Even after injuries changed his path, Shantz kept shining. In 1957, he put up a league-best 2.45 ERA for the Yankees, shoulder problems and all.

Iconic Moments Against Baseball’s Best

Shantz’s career was loaded with unforgettable moments against some of baseball’s biggest names.

• He struck out Boston Red Sox icon Ted Williams nine times.
• He batted 4-for-4 against Hall of Famer Bob Feller in his career, never striking out.
• On April 10, 1962, he threw a complete-game win in the first game in Houston Colt .45s franchise history.

Life Beyond the Pitcher’s Mound

After retiring in 1964, Shantz made the shift into regular life. He ran a bowling alley and a dairy bar, always staying close to the Ambler community.

People loved him for his easygoing style and warmth. He never really left the game behind, at least in spirit.

A Living Connection to Baseball’s Golden Age

Even in his later years, Shantz kept signing hundreds of autographs every week for fans. He’s a living link to an era of baseball that was all grit, flair, and pure love for the sport.

His humility and gratitude stuck with him, even as the honors and memories kept stacking up. There’s just something about Bobby Shantz that makes you want to root for him, no matter how many years go by.

Reflections on a Great Life

Looking back, Bobby Shantz sums up his journey in a way that’s both humble and striking. He calls it “a great life” he’d gladly live all over again.

He overcame the odds. He faced legends, and, honestly, became a legend himself.

Now, as he turns 100, Shantz’s story keeps inspiring players and fans. It’s a reminder that passion and hard work—plus a little faith in yourself—can build a legacy that really lasts.

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Here is the source article for this story: ‘Boy, what a life’: A visit with Bobby Shantz, MLB’s oldest living MVP, as he nears his 100th birthday