Aug. 13, 1964 - James Anthony Piersall struck a mighty blow for fatherhood at Chavez Ravine last night, sparking the Angels to victory over Cleveland, 4-2, before 8,038 partisan patrons.
The 34-year-old outfielder became a father for the ninth time just a few hours before the Angels took the field.
“Now that I’ve got a full team [seven girls and two boys], it’s up to me to make it a big evening,” said the popular Angel before going into action. The latest addition is another girl.
So, baseball’s father of the year promptly pasted three singles, knocked in two runs, scored another, stole a base, and handled four putouts flawlessly.
His .342 batting average tops all the Angels and is the highest of his major league career, which includes 14 seasons.
Where Jim found the fountain of youth remains to be seen, but it must be Southern California because he’s repeatedly said he now plans to move his family there from Hyannis Port, if he can find a house large enough to lodge them all.
Last night, Piersall shared the hero’s role with another Massachusetts star, 22-year-old Fred Newman.
The kiddie of Bill Rigney’s mound staff turned in another brilliant performance, scattering six hits as he became the second Angel to win 10 or more games. Only Dean Chance has more (12) victories.
The Angels are playing .629 ball since July 7 with their 22-13 mark and have the best win percentage of all American League teams since the All-Star break.
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