Sports History

Ernie Lombardi, best known for his Hall of Fame career as a catcher with the Cincinnati Reds, was a unique figure in baseball history. Though overshadowed by his iconic "Schnozz" and his success behind the plate, Lombardi's baseball journey started long before catching Johnny Vander Meer's back-to-back no-hitters.

Early Brilliance on the West Coast:

Born in 1908, Lombardi's baseball prowess manifested early. Playing professionally in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) at just 18, he quickly established himself as a prolific hitter. Nicknamed "The Man with the Horsehide Glue" for his seemingly effortless ability to stick with pitches, Lombardi routinely led the league in batting average during his PCL years. However, his lack of speed and a throwing arm considered below average limited his appeal to major league teams.

Brooklyn's Blunder and Lombardi's Rise:

The Brooklyn Robins, hesitant about his defensive limitations, traded Lombardi to the Cincinnati Reds in 1933. This proved to be a monumental miscalculation. In Cincinnati, Lombardi thrived. While his defensive deficiencies persisted, his exceptional hitting, highlighted by his power and high on-base percentage, quickly earned him a starting role.

A Beloved Figure and MVP Recognition:

Lombardi's quirky personality and dedication to the game endeared him to fans. Despite his lumbering gait, he became known for his hustle and leadership. His offensive production reached its peak in 1938, where he led the National League in batting average (.342) and on-base percentage (.423), earning him the league's Most Valuable Player Award. This same year, he was behind the plate for Vander Meer's historic feat, further solidifying his place in Reds history.

Born April 6, 1908, in Oakland, California, was Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Ernie Lombardi. Lombardi was an eight-time MLB All-Star, a World Series Champion in 1940, and the National League MVP in 1938. His career spanned from playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Boston Braves, and the New York Giants. One of the Top MLB players to have worn Jersey 27.