herb washington

Oakland A’s release designated runner Herb “Hurricane” Washington

ByThis Day in Baseball

On May 5, 1975, the Oakland A’s release designated runner Herb “Hurricane” Washington, ending his unusual major league career. Washington appeared as a pinch-runner in 105 games with the A’s over two seasons, but never came to bat or played an inning in the field. Washington leaves the game with 31 stolen bases and 33…

A trio of National League righthanded starters (Andy Messersmith, Tom Seaver, and Don Sutton) pose together prior to the 1975 All-Star Game in Milwaukee.

The Dodgers take game 2 of 1974 Series behind Don Sutton

ByBaseball

Herb Washington, representing the tying run in the top of the ninth is picked off first base by Dodger closer Mike Marshall for the second out of Game 2, the only contest the A’s will lose in the Fall Classic. The world-class sprinter, who will never have a plate appearance in his brief 105-game career, was selected by Oakland owner Charlie Finley to become the team’s “designated runner,” a position that doesn’t exist with any other major league club.

Herb Washington

Herb Washington Stats & Facts

ByTom

    Herb Washington Positions: Pinch Runner and Designated HitterBats: Right  •  Throws: Right6-0, 170lb (183cm, 77kg)Born: November 16, 1951  in Belzonia, MS usSchool: Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)Debut: April 4, 1974 (3,471st in major league history)vs. TEX 0 AB, 0 H, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SBLast Game: May 4, 1975vs. CHW 0 AB, 0 H, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SBFull Name: Herbert Lee WashingtonNicknames: Hurricane HerbView Player Info from the B-R BullpenView…