John Klimchock

John Klimchock

In the late 1950s john klimchock spent his offseason in Puerto Rico playing winter ball. It was a time of great opportunity for him, but it also meant that his big-league career was in doubt.

He played well enough to earn the Indians’ second-base job. Klimchock was grateful for that.

Early Life and Education

In the early days of professional baseball, offseason employment was a must for aspiring players. Klimchock worked for a number of companies, including the Rolling Rock brewery, the Coors brewer and the Coca-Cola bottling company.

He also volunteered at the Phoenix Fall League and served as its first marketing director. In addition, he was one of the founding members of the Major League Alumni Association. The latter has raised a lot of money over the years to support youth baseball programs and former major leaguers in need.

Professional Career

In his professional career, john klimchock spent 11 seasons with five different teams. He played for the Kansas City Athletics, Milwaukee Braves, Washington Senators, New York Mets and Cleveland Indians.

Klimchock began his pro career in Pocatello, Idaho, with the Class C Pioneer League where he led the circuit in hits, runs, and batting average and was named Rookie of the Year and the league’s MVP. He then moved up to Double-A Shreveport where he continued his impressive play, winning the league’s Most Valuable Player award and being an All-Star.

Klimchock made his major league debut on September 27, 1958, with the A’s. He was 0-for-5, but scored the game-winning run on a fielder’s choice against future Hall of Famer Early Wynn. He finished the season with a.272 average and was the team’s leading hitter and second baseman.

Personal Life

He is a long-time member of the Alumni Association, working to raise funds for youth baseball and helping those in the baseball family who have faced hardships. He was also involved in the founding of the Arizona Fall League.

In his personal life, Klimchock is a loving husband and father of three daughters. He enjoys spending time with his family, especially on their annual trip to Arizona.

His wife, Jeri, and their daughters have been an inspiration to him, he says. He is proud of their accomplishments and their willingness to help others.

In his spare time, Klimchock also enjoys playing golf and going on walks. He is a member of the Flame Delhi Chapter of the Major League Alumni Association, and has served on its board of directors.

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