Tris Speaker (1916-1926)
The acquisition of Tris Speaker was one of the greatest trades in Cleveland Indians history.
Sent to Cleveland by the Boston Red Sox after a salary dispute, where ownership wanted to cut his pay because he hit “only .322” in 1915, Speaker came back with a vengeance in 1916. The former MVP posted a .386/.470/.502 batting line, with 211 hits and 41 doubles, leading the league in each category. He continued his torrid run during the majority of his time in Cleveland, proving that he was worth every cent he earned.
Overall, during his 11 years in Cleveland, Speaker put together an incredible .354/.444/.520 batting line, hitting 486 doubles and 108 triples. His excellent speed also manifested on the basepaths, as he stole 155 bases. Speaker was also considered the premier center fielder of his time defensively, and he is still the all time leader in assists and double plays in center.
Speaker also made a mark as a manager. He was the Indians player/manager in 1920 when the team won their first World Series title. Speaker was the first manager to use a platoon system, helping pave the way for the modern game. However, his time in Cleveland came to an end amongst controversy, as he and Ty Cobb were both accused of throwing games. While the charges were never substantiated, he was forced to leave the Indians in 1926, signing with the Senators, and ending his career with the Athletics in 1928.
Tris Speaker was one of the greatest players in baseball history, an inner circle Hall of Famer. His time with the Cleveland Indians was a success for both the player and the franchise.