Ben Harris (1910s pitcher)

Ben Harris of the Kansas City Packers

Ben Harris (born Benjamin Franklin Harris on February 20, 1890, in Green Ridge, Missouri – died July 3, 1957, in Sedalia, Missouri) was a professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1910s. Harris played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the Cleveland Indians, showcasing his talents in the early part of the 20th century, a period known for its "dead-ball era" characteristics.

Early Life

Ben Harris was born in Green Ridge, Missouri, and developed an interest in baseball at a young age. His early life in Missouri shaped his athletic career, leading him to pursue professional baseball.

Professional Career

Harris made his MLB debut with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1915, a team managed by the legendary Connie Mack. His tenure with the Athletics was marked by his development as a pitcher in the major leagues. After his time with the Athletics, Harris moved to the Cleveland Indians, where he continued to pitch in the major leagues. Throughout his career, Harris experienced the challenges and triumphs of professional baseball during a transformative era for the sport.

Playing Style

As a pitcher, Harris was known for his strategic approach to the game. The dead-ball era of baseball, during which Harris played, was characterized by low-scoring games and a lack of home runs. Pitchers like Harris had to rely on skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of the game to succeed.

Legacy

Ben Harris's career in MLB, though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, contributed to the rich history of baseball during the 1910s. His journey from Missouri to the major leagues exemplifies the path of many players of his era, who pursued their passion for the game amidst the evolving landscape of American sports.

Death

Ben Harris passed away on July 3, 1957, in Sedalia, Missouri. His life and career in baseball remain a part of the early 20th-century American sports narrative, reflecting the dedication and challenges faced by professional athletes of his time.