Retired Numbers: #19 Johnny Pesky

Red Sox

Retired Numbers: 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 14, 27, 42

#19 Johnny Pesky: Boston Red Sox (1942, 1946–1952) Detroit Tigers (1952–1954)

Washington Senators(1954)

Positions: SS/3B

Why is he great: With World War II being fought in the early 40's, many great players had to go overseas to defend the country. The war left many players without playing for many years like Pesky. Johnny Pesky rookie season in 1942 was amazing for a second baseman hitting .331. After the 42 season Pesky was sent off to the Navy and served for 3 years. When Pesky returned in 1946 he was better than ever hitting .335 a career high. We still wonder what would Pesky have done if he would've played those 3 seasons we will never know. Johnny Pesky would go on to play 8 more season and be a Red Sox legend. Pesky was often associated with his teammates Ted Williams, Bobby Doerr and Dom DiMaggio who were all close friends. In an age where many players are self-centered and selfish Its hard to imagine 4 players being close.

Best Season: 1946 .335 BA/ .401 OBP/ .427 SLG/ 208 H/ 43 2B/ 2 HR/ 55 RBI

Career Stats: (10 Seasons - 1,270 Games) .307 BA/ 1,455 H/ .386 SLG/ 226 2B/ 17 HR/404 RBI/ 867 R

Awards: 1x All-Star

Top Card: 1952 Topps #15