Time begins to chip away at the living members of baseball franchises long relocated. Dave Cole, a six-year pitcher primarily with the Boston and Milwaukee Braves, passed away Wednesday October, 26, 2011 in Hagerstown, Md. He was 81.
Cole was signed by the Braves in 1948 and progressed rapidly through their farm system, earning a late-season call-up in September, 1950. His trial earned him a full-time spot on the club next spring, pitching 55 games for the Braves for three more seasons, staying with them through their move from Boston to Milwaukee.
At the beginning of the 1954 season, he was traded to the Chicago Cubs for shortstop Roy Smalley Jr., who also passed away earlier this week. Cole went 3-8 for the Cubs that season, with two of his wins coming against the Philadelphia Phillies. His performance against the Phillies impressed them so much that in 1955, they went out and purchased his contract from the Cubs.
After being informed of his move to Philadelphia, Cole replied, “They’re the only team I can beat.” The Phillies were hoping that he would put his magic to use against the rest of the National League; however, Cole’s prophecy was self-fulfilling. He lost three decisions over seven appearances and was traded to the Brooklyn Dodgers in June. He would never return to the majors, playing in the minors through 1957 before hanging up his cleats.
He finished with a lifetime record of 6-18 with a 4.93 ERA. He fared better as a hitter, blasting three home runs in only 61 career at-bats.
After baseball, he returned to Hagerstown where he ran a Mack Truck outlet, retiring in 1987.
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