Year Inducted – 1983

“Lefty” was one of the best pitchers for more than 15 years on Akron sandlots. The bulky southpaw also hit over .300 consistently. Born and raised in Cuyahoga Falls, the Kent State grad made his mark on area sandlots with the Ravenna Eagles, Lustig Shoes, Goodyear Wingfoots, Akron Orphans and Smith Sheriffs. Some of Lefty’s highlights include the 1949 season with the Sheriffs when he racked up 12 straight wins and fanned 129 in 96 innings during which the team won 60 of 67 games. In tourney action he added two more wins. On one occasion, Lefty struck out 25 in a 12-inning affair and in 1945 helped the Akron Orphans win the NABF National Championship. He also had a taste of pro ball with the Akron Yankees, and in the White Sox organization. His biggest thrill, however, was striking out 19, including the immortal Jackie Robinson in an exhibition game in Youngstown, featuring the Lustigs versus the Kansas City Monarchs.