Art Shamsky – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Art Shamsky made his mark in baseball during an eight-year Major League run from 1965 to 1972. As a left-handed outfielder and first baseman, he played for the Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and Oakland Athletics. Still, most fans remember him for his role with the legendary 1969 “Miracle Mets” World Series team.

Shamsky called it a career after the 1972 season at just 30 years old. He left behind some wild highlights, like hitting four home runs in a row in 1966 and batting an eye-popping .538 in the 1969 playoffs.

Honestly, his timing couldn’t have been better. His best season came right as the Mets pulled off their miracle championship—he hit .300 that year and instantly became a fan favorite in New York.

People remember Shamsky for more than just his World Series moments. His career had its share of dramatic highs and odd twists, making him one of baseball’s more interesting characters. He went from pinch-hitting for Hall of Famer Frank Robinson as a rookie to becoming a crucial part of one of baseball’s most beloved championship squads. He really squeezed the most out of a relatively short but memorable career.

Early Life and Background

Arthur Louis Shamsky was born October 14, 1941, in St. Louis, Missouri. His parents had escaped Eastern Europe, looking for a better life.

He grew up in University City, a suburb just outside St. Louis. Shamsky excelled both in school and on the field during his high school days, and then he headed to the University of Missouri.

Family and Jewish Heritage

Art Shamsky’s parents, William and Sadie Shamsky, were both children of Jewish immigrants. His dad’s family came from Ukraine, and his mom’s side was from Poland.

The Shamskys settled in St. Louis, working hard to build a new life. Growing up Jewish, Shamsky felt the usual expectations from his community.

His mother hoped he’d become a doctor, which was pretty common for Jewish families back then. Meanwhile, his father actually liked baseball and encouraged his son’s athletic pursuits.

“My father would have preferred that I had gone into business, but he was into baseball and I think he was thrilled when I signed,” Shamsky once said. “My mother certainly wanted me to go to college and become a doctor, of course. What else is a Jewish boy supposed to do?”

Growing Up in St. Louis

Shamsky spent his childhood in University City, a diverse suburb of St. Louis with a strong school system. The community really supported his growth as an athlete.

His Jewish background shaped his values and decisions. Later, as a pro, he decided not to play on Yom Kippur during the 1969 Mets season—a choice that spoke volumes.

St. Louis has a deep baseball history, and that environment helped fuel his love for the sport.

Education at University City High

Shamsky attended University City High School, where he played both baseball and basketball. He showed a ton of promise on the baseball team.

He graduated at just 16, which is pretty impressive. The school has produced some real baseball talent.

Ken Holtzman attended University City High four years after Shamsky. Later, they’d become teammates on the Oakland A’s in 1972, and Holtzman would go on to have a solid pitching career.

University City High has sent several players to the majors, and Shamsky was the third to make it.

Baseball Beginnings at the University of Missouri

After high school, Shamsky enrolled at the University of Missouri to keep playing ball and get his education. He played for the Missouri Tigers during his freshman year in 1958-59.

His college stint didn’t last long, but it played a part in his development. He got to sharpen his skills before going pro.

In September 1959, still a student, Shamsky signed a contract with the Cincinnati Reds as a free agent. That decision kicked off his pro career and ended his time in college.

It was a big moment—he chose his baseball dream over finishing college.

Professional Baseball Career Overview

Art Shamsky’s pro baseball career spanned 13 years, from 1960 to 1972. He started in the minors with the Geneva Redlegs, where he even roomed with Pete Rose.

He played for four big league teams, with highlights like tying a record for four straight home runs in 1966 and winning a World Series with the ’69 Mets.

Minor League Journey and Early Success

Shamsky signed with the Cincinnati Reds in September 1959, right after his college season. He kicked off his pro career in 1960 with the Geneva Redlegs at age 18.

That first season went well—he roomed with future Hall of Famer Pete Rose, hit .271 with 18 home runs, and drove in 86 runs. He finished second in the league in homers, led outfielders with 24 assists, and made the All-Star team.

He moved up through the Reds’ system over the next few years. In 1961, he played for the Topeka Reds and hit .288 with 15 homers.

In 1962, he joined the Macon Peaches, keeping up a .284 average and 16 home runs.

He spent his last two minor league seasons with the AAA San Diego Padres. In 1963, he hit .267 with 18 home runs.

1964 saw him improve to a .272 average and 25 homers. That year, he hit a 500-foot home run at the Padres’ stadium—a park record.

Major League Debut with Cincinnati Reds

Shamsky made the Reds’ roster out of spring training in 1965 at 23. He debuted on April 17, 1965, and as a rookie, he hit .260 in a substitute role.

That winter, he played in the Puerto Rican Winter League for Cangrejeros de Santurce. The experience gave him a boost heading into his breakout 1966 season.

In 1966, he really made headlines. On August 12 and 14, he tied a major league record by homering in four straight at-bats. What’s wild is that three of those homers came in extra innings during a single game, all as a pinch hitter starting in the eighth inning.

He wrapped up 1966 with 21 home runs and 47 RBIs in just 234 at-bats, slugging .521. That was second on the team for home runs. The bat he used for the record is now at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Notable Seasons and Team Transitions

The Reds traded Shamsky to the New York Mets for infielder Bob Johnson in November 1967. That trade changed everything for him.

In 1969, he hit .300 with 14 home runs, splitting right field duties with Ron Swoboda. Both his average and home run total ranked second on the team.

He was clutch, hitting .385 as a pinch hitter and .388 in late, close games. In the National League Championship Series, he batted .538 while hitting cleanup.

During the World Series, he started only Game 3, which happened to be his 28th birthday, but went hitless in six at-bats.

Shamsky kept up his strong play in 1970, leading the Mets with a .293 average and posting a .371 on-base percentage. He played a platoon role and had only 402 at-bats, but still ranked seventh in the league with 13 intentional walks.

After a tough, injury-filled 1971 season, the Mets traded him to the St. Louis Cardinals in October 1971, along with Jim Bibby, Rich Folkers, and Charlie Hudson.

Retirement in 1972

The Cardinals released him in April 1972, cutting his time with them short. Just five days later, he signed with the Chicago Cubs and played 22 games.

In June 1972, the Oakland Athletics picked up his contract from Chicago. His stint with the A’s didn’t last long—chronic back problems kept him from contributing, so they released him in July.

Shamsky played his final major league game on July 18, 1972, against the Milwaukee Brewers. At 30, he decided to hang it up after 13 years in pro baseball, mostly because of those nagging back injuries.

He finished with 68 home runs, 233 RBIs, and a .253 average in 665 games. But the World Series ring he won with the ’69 Mets is what really cements his place in baseball lore.

Key Achievements and Records

Art Shamsky made a name for himself with his power and timely hitting. He tied a major league record for consecutive home runs and played a big part in one of baseball’s most famous championship teams.

Four Consecutive Home Runs Record

Shamsky smashed his way into the record books in 1966 by homering in four straight at-bats for the Cincinnati Reds. This happened on August 12 and 14, during what was easily one of his best seasons.

His power was on full display—he finished that year with 21 home runs in just 96 games. Not bad for someone who didn’t get everyday playing time.

That record put Shamsky in pretty elite company. Those four consecutive home runs showed just how dangerous he could be at the plate.

1969 World Series Champion

Shamsky became a key part of the 1969 New York Mets, the “Miracle Mets.” That team pulled off one of baseball’s most shocking and celebrated World Series wins.

During that season, Shamsky hit .300 with 14 home runs, giving the Mets steady offense alongside guys like Al Weis.

Winning the World Series was the high point of his career. His contributions helped turn the Mets from underdogs into champions, and New York hasn’t forgotten it.

Home Run Power and Career Stats

Over his eight years in the majors, Shamsky put up solid numbers: 68 home runs, 233 RBIs, and a .253 batting average across 665 games.

He played for four teams: the Reds, Mets, Cubs, and Athletics. As a lefty, he could drive in runs and change a game with one swing.

People called him “Smasher” for a reason—he was a legitimate power threat every time he stepped up to the plate.

Role with the Miracle Mets and 1969 Season

Art Shamsky joined the Mets in 1967 and became a crucial piece of their historic 1969 World Series run. He thrived under manager Gil Hodges’ platoon system and built strong bonds with teammates like Tom Seaver and Jerry Grote.

Joining the New York Mets

The Reds traded Shamsky to the Mets in late 1967, setting him up for his best days in baseball.

At that point, the Mets were still seen as a struggling team. They’d finished in last place pretty much every year since their start in 1962. Nobody really saw that 1969 turnaround coming.

Key Trade Details:

• Year: 1967
• From: Cincinnati Reds
• To: New York Mets
• Position: Right field, first base

The trade worked out for both Shamsky and the Mets. He found his spot in New York, and his skills fit perfectly for what was to come.

Platoon Role and Performance

Manager Gil Hodges really knew how to use Art Shamsky in a platoon system during the 1969 season. Shamsky split right field duties with Ron Swoboda, so both guys pitched in to help the team.

Shamsky’s 1969 stats jump off the page:

Statistic	1969 Performance
Batting Average	.300
On-Base Percentage	.375
Slugging Percentage	.488
Home Runs	14

That .300 batting average? Huge for the Mets offense. Hodges used the platoon system to get Shamsky into favorable matchups, and it paid off.

This approach let Shamsky make the most of his opportunities all season long.

Shamsky played right field at Shea Stadium with teammates like Cleon Jones and Ron Swoboda. That outfield group gave the team both solid defense and some real pop at the plate.

Postseason Highlights and Impact

Art Shamsky turned it up a notch in the 1969 postseason. He hit .538 during the playoffs and World Series, and those at-bats made a difference in the Mets’ title run.

His clutch hitting helped the Mets take down the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series. Then, they went up against the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles in the World Series.

Postseason Statistics:

• Batting Average: .538
• Key Contributions: Timely hitting, solid defense
• Team Result: World Series champions

People started calling them the “Miracle Mets” because no one expected them to go from last place to champs. Shamsky’s steady bat and veteran presence really helped the team when things got tense.

He made his mark in October, and Mets fans still talk about his contributions that season.

Relationships with Teammates and Coaches

Art Shamsky built some tight bonds with his 1969 Mets teammates. He worked closely with stars like Tom Seaver and Jerry Koosman, who anchored the pitching staff.

Manager Gil Hodges earned Shamsky’s respect by using the platoon system so well. Hodges always seemed to know how to get the best out of everyone and keep the clubhouse together.

Shamsky shared the field with other key guys like:

• Jerry Grote (catcher)
• Bud Harrelson (shortstop)
• Ken Boswell (second base)
• Jim Beauchamp (utility player)

That 1969 team stayed close even after baseball. Shamsky wrote about those friendships in his memoir, “After the Miracle: The Lasting Brotherhood of the ’69 Mets.”

He once said being part of that Mets team was “one of the most wonderful things that happened in my life.” Even after 13 years in the majors, nothing topped that championship season for him.

Career After Baseball

After he retired from pro baseball in 1972, Art Shamsky dove into a bunch of different careers—media, management, community work, you name it. He tried his hand at broadcasting, ran restaurants, got into investment banking, and even found his way back to baseball management in Israel.

Broadcasting and Media Roles

Shamsky jumped into sportscasting after his playing days, working as a broadcaster for years. That kept him close to the game and gave him a platform to share his baseball stories with fans.

His experience behind the mic led to media appearances and public speaking gigs later on.

The former Mets outfielder was already a New York celebrity thanks to the 1969 World Series. He even popped up on “Everybody Loves Raymond,” where the family’s childhood bulldog was named “Shamsky” after him. That little TV cameo showed just how much he meant to the city.

He didn’t just stick to the broadcast booth, either. Shamsky became a familiar face who could talk about baseball’s golden days and that legendary 1969 season.

Managerial Ventures and Israel Baseball League

In 2007, Shamsky put on a uniform again to manage the Modiin Miracle in the Israel Baseball League. He was 65 at the time, but the league, with its six teams, gave him a chance to reconnect with his Jewish roots.

“It was an eye-opening experience for me, learning about places I’d heard about as a kid,” Shamsky said. “Being Jewish and managing there, for me, was a neat thing.” He managed the team at Kibbutz Gezer and told his players about the land’s special meaning.

He didn’t just stay on the field. Shamsky traveled all over Israel, hitting Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and historic sites. He called it “three months of a wonderful experience” that really deepened his understanding of Israeli culture.

Authorship and ‘After the Miracle’

Shamsky co-wrote “After the Miracle” with Erik Sherman, focusing on the 1969 Mets’ championship team. The book looked at what happened to the players after their World Series win and captured the strong bonds between them.

Writing this book let Shamsky dive into deeper stories about that magical year. He explored how the title changed each player’s life. Sherman brought his writing chops to the project, helping Shamsky share his memories.

Public Speaking and Community Involvement

Shamsky became a regular speaker at temples and synagogues around New York. His background as a World Series champ and Jewish athlete made him a big draw in Jewish communities. “After I got out of the game, it seems to have taken on a life of its own,” he said about his speaking gigs.

He owned restaurants and worked in investment banking, too. These ventures showed he wasn’t afraid to try new things after baseball. Shamsky kept his connection to the game alive through community events and appearances.

The National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame recognized him for his impact on baseball and the Jewish community. Even now, living in Manhattan, Mets fans still come up to him to talk about the 1969 season.

Legacy and Influence

Art Shamsky’s influence on baseball goes way beyond his stats. His role with the 1969 Miracle Mets and his place as a Jewish athlete in sports make his story unique. He even made his mark on TV and inspired future Jewish ballplayers.

Recognitions and Honors

Shamsky’s biggest honor? Being part of the 1969 World Series champion Mets. That team will always have a place in baseball history as the “Miracle Mets.”

He hit .300 in the 1969 season and batted .538 in the National League Championship Series against Atlanta. Those numbers helped lock in his status as a key player on one of baseball’s most unforgettable teams.

He pulled off the rare feat of hitting home runs in four straight at-bats in 1966. As of 2015, only 35 Major League players had ever done that.

His connection to the 1969 Mets keeps bringing him invitations to speak at temples and synagogues. People still want to hear about that championship run.

Influence on Jewish Athletes

Shamsky became a role model for Jewish athletes in pro sports. His success with the Mets, especially in New York’s big Jewish community, made him stand out.

He formed a friendship with Ron Blomberg, another Jewish player in New York at the time. Both later managed teams in the Israel Baseball League in 2007, which brought them even closer to their heritage.

Managing the Modiin Miracle in Israel in 2007 gave Shamsky a stronger connection to his Jewish identity. He called the experience “eye-opening” and said managing in the Holy Land meant a lot to him.

He still shows up at Jewish community events, inspiring younger Jewish athletes. Shamsky has said being Jewish and managing in Israel was “a neat thing” for him.

Cultural References and Popularity

Shamsky’s name even made it to prime-time TV on “Everybody Loves Raymond.” The family’s bulldog was named after him, and he showed up on the show himself.

That appearance kept him in the spotlight, even for people who never saw him play. His status as a New York folk hero really comes from that 1969 Mets championship.

Fans still stop him on the street to talk about that season, sometimes sharing stories with kids who weren’t even born back then.

The Miracle Mets’ legacy just won’t fade, and Shamsky’s name keeps popping up in baseball circles. Living in Manhattan, he often bumps into fans who remember that incredible team.

Net Worth and Later Life

After he retired in 1972, Shamsky jumped into a bunch of business ventures. He got into broadcasting and even owned a sports bar, which really set up his financial footing after baseball.

He still lives in New York, mostly thanks to all the opportunities his Mets fame brought his way. That 1969 championship really opened doors and played a big part in why he stuck around the city.

Shamsky stays busy with baseball stuff, like writing and making public appearances. He uses his website, artshamsky.com, to keep in touch with fans and share old memories.

People still want him at baseball events and Jewish community gatherings, and those gigs bring in steady income. Honestly, being both a World Series champ and a prominent Jewish athlete keeps his personal brand valuable even now.