Edward “Batty” Abbaticchio

B:  Apr 15, 1877, Latrobe, PA   —   D : Jan 6, 1957, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

“Batty” Abbaticchio was the second Italian American to play in the major leagues, and the first who did not change his name to make it sound more “American.” An outstanding all-around athlete, he also played professional football. The NL leader in plate appearances in 1905, Ed played infield for the Philadelphia Phillies, the Boston Beaneaters, the Boston Doves and the World Series-winning Pittsburgh Pirates in 1909. He retired in 1906 to open a hotel in Latrobe, PA, but returned to majors for three more seasons, including his World Series appearance. A light hitter, Abbaticchio was a superior fielder and base runner.

AB	R	H	HR	RBI	AVG
3044	355	772	11	324	.254