Throwback Tuesday

Throwback Tuesdays will take a look at the history of the franchise looking at players new and old, from Pirates of long ago to contemporary throwback uniforms. 

Sometimes the most obvious starting point is the best.  And where better to start than with the oldest card in my collection?  My 1948 Bowman Ed Fitz Gerald marks the current starting point of my collection. 

Beyond the interesting capitalization of his last name, Fitz Gerald spend a dozen years in the major leagues, mainly serving as a backup catcher.  Spending half his career in Pittsburgh, his most extensive playing time came in his rookie season of '48. 

Fitz Gerald also holds a special place in Pirates history as the catcher of one of six no-hitters in Pirates history.  On May 6, 1951 Cliff Chambers pitched a 3-0 no hitter against the Boston Braves in the second game of a doubleheader, marking the second no-hitter in team history, and the first of the modern era.

Upon leaving Pittsburgh, Fitz Gerald would serve as Washington's primary catcher in 1955 and '56, remaining in the majors through 1959 before spending several seasons coaching and managing in the majors and minors.