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Yankees Birthday of the Day: Ping Bodie

Frank Stephen Bodie, known by his nickname Ping, was a power-hitting outfielder whose career began in the California State League at just 17 years old. Born in 1887 in San Francisco, Bodie adopted the moniker ‘Ping’ after his signature swing with a 52-ounce bat, while ‘Bodie’ honored a hometown town.

By 1910, he had already established himself as a standout, smashing 30 home runs for the San Francisco Seals—a record in the deadball era. His performance caught the attention of major league teams, and he was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in September of that year.

Though he spent 1911 mostly on the bench, Bodie’s boldness paid off when he confronted owner Charles Comiskey, demanding a roster spot. The gamble worked: in his rookie season, he hit .289 with four home runs and a .407 slugging percentage, earning 2.8 wins above replacement.

The following year, he continued his strong play, hitting five more homers and maintaining a .294 average, solidifying his reputation as a charismatic showman with a fearless personality.

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