Brooks Robinson and the Baltimore Orioles

[BaltOrioles]

The Knoxville Smokies were the Orioles Class A affiliate in the South Atlantic League in 1957-58. Post #981 discussed the 1957 team. Here is a little about the 1958 team. They finished 67-73 and were again managed by future O's coach George Staller. The Smokies averaged a little over 900 fans per game.

Staller, George 3 - Copy.jpg


1958 Program

1958 Knoxville Smokies.jpg



In addition to George Staller, a bunch of players players spent time with the Orioles. They included Jerry Walker, Leo Burke, Ron Hansen, Chuck Estrada, Jack Fisher, Dave Nicholson, and Angelo Dagres. Hard throwing Steve Dalkowski was also on the team.

Here are a couple others from the team. Sundin, Papa and Zupo appeared briefly in Baltimore.

Gordon Sundin, John Papa, Frank Zupo, Al Nagel and Al Barth


Sundin, Gordon 1 - Copy.jpg Papa, John 1 - Copy.jpg Zupo, Frank (1961 Rochester Red Wings) - Copy.jpg Nagel, Al 1 - Copy.jpg Barth, Al 1 - Copy.jpg

Although, Al Barth never made it to the majors, he had an interesting career. Barth was a two way player, finishing his minor league career, as a pitcher, with a record of 15-10 in 63 games. He also played 3B and OF. In 776 games and over 3000 plate appearances, he batted .274 and hit 130 HRs.

Additional Note: Frank Zupo is another member of my all Unibrow team.