Over the course of major league history, there have been 86 players whose last name ended in the letter ‘X’. This, however, would be news to Atlanta Braves announcer Chip Caray.
The third best announcer from that lineage, Caray was excited to see Cincinnati Reds reliever Ryan Hendrix enter the game on Friday. He proclaimed that Hendrix was “the first and only major-leaguer whose last name ends in X in the history of the game.” Those 85 other players would like to have a word with Caray.
Atlanta Braves announcer Chip Caray forgets about some greats of the game
Yes, 86 players are not exactly a substantial amount, especially when over 20,000 players have appeared in the majors. However, the list of players whose last name ends in ‘X’ has some of the greatest to ever play, such as Hall of Famers Jimmie Foxx, Nellie Fox, Sandy Koufax, and Greg Maddux.
The inability to remember Maddux is particularly interesting. He could arguably be considered the best pitcher in Braves’ history, at least of the past 50 years. Maddux had even returned to the Cubs when Caray was broadcasting their games, where he could presumably see the ‘X’ on the back of his jersey.
This is not the first particularly ridiculous gaffe from Caray this year. After Marcell Ozuna had been arrested on domestic violence charges, he referred to the outfielder’s absence as being in “injury limbo.” While Ozuna is on the Injured List, there is far more to his absence than his broken fingers.
Perhaps Caray is just trying to find some excitement for Braves’ fans and to give them a reason to watch. The season is starting to drift away, and as the pitching continues to struggle, the divisional race could end early in Atlanta. Hendrix gave a glimmer of hope that there could be something interesting about him.
Atlanta Braves announcer Chip Caray proclaimed Ryan Hendrix to be the first player in MLB history whose name ends with an ‘X’. He forgot about some truly great players.