Fishel, Leo

Very little is known of Fishel, the first Jewish pitcher in the major leagues, whp pitched for the Giants in 1899. Besides being the first Jewish pitcher, Leo was also the first graduate of Columbia University to make the big time.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. December 13, 1877 - d. May 19, 1960

Career Highlights:
After graduating Columbia University, Fishel made his debut as the starting pitcher for the New York Giants on May 3, 1899. Leo went the distance for a complete game. The Giants lost as Fishel allowed six runs, nine hits as well as two batters hit and a wild pitch. He managed six strikeouts in an era particularly favorable for contact hitting. He had four at bats in the game and managed a single only to be stranded on base. Sadly, he would never play big league ball again.

Career Dates:
Fishel played one season in the majors with the New York Giants in 1899.

Position:
Pitcher

Physical description:
6"0, 175 pounds.
Right-handed

Career Statistics:
Games: 1
Games Won: 0
Games Lost: 1
Innings Pitched: 9
Hits Allowed: 9
Base On Balls: 6
Strike Outs: 6
E.R.A: 6.00
Batting:
Batting Average: .250 Hits: 1

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References:
Jewish Major Leaguers: Baseball Cards (By the American Jewish Historical Society)
The Baseball Encyclopedia, Eighth Edition (New York: McMillan, 1990)