Year Inducted – 1987

Had an illustrious 20-year career on the local sandlots as a versatile player who could handle all the infield and outfield sports, and became an outstanding catcher while averaging a steady .280-.300 at the plate. From Garfield High, and American Legion play, Duane moved into the AA League at age 15 with Gabby’s Nine, and followed that with stints with the Akron Orphans and Scott Paige Billiards teams, before joining the powerful Borden Auto championship teams. While with the Autos, Duane took a crack at pro-ball in the Phillies farm system. Following that, he returned to the Borden outfit and helped them win many City and State titles. One of the top highlights of his career came in 1950 when he made the AABC All-Tournament while with the Autos in the Battle Creek National Finals.