Ripper Collins

American baseball player

Died when: 66 years 16 days (792 months)
Star Sign: Aries

 

James Anthony "Ripper" Collins (March 30, 1904 – April 15, 1970) was an American professional baseball player, coach and scout.He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a first baseman for the St.

Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and the Pittsburgh Pirates.A switch hitter who threw left-handed, Collins was listed as 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m) tall and weighed 165 pounds (75 kg), during his playing days.

Despite his stature, he was a power hitter who in 1934 co-led the National League (NL) with 35 home runs (HR).The nickname "Ripper" developed during an on-field incident that occurred when Jimmy was a young player.

A ball rocketed off his bat and struck a nail protruding from the outfield fence; it caused the cover to partially tear.

When asked who hit the ball, the retrieving outfielder saw the ball hanging and said, "It was the ripper."

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