4. Samuel Byrd – Babe Ruth’s Legs
A fourth outfielder during his MLB career, Samuel Byrd made a career out of being able to play all three outfield positions and for his running ability.
A decent enough player during his eight year career, Byrd spent his time almost equally between left, center and right. At the plate, he produced a .274/.350/.412 batting line with 38 home runs and 101 doubles. Yet, it was for his legs and ability to play defense that he earned his notable nickname.
While Ruth was still a feared slugger in his later years, his ability to run or play defense suffered. As such, Byrd became known as Babe Ruth’s Legs, coming into games late as a pinch runner to keep the slow Ruth from clogging up the basepaths.
Despite a relatively successful major league career, Byrd was better known as a golfer. He played on the PGA Tour for five years, winning six tournaments, and won 23 professional golf tournaments in his career. That golfing prowess also earned Byrd the nickname Babe Ruth’s Caddy, but it was that first nickname that earned him his place on this list.
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