Jackie Brandt

Who is Jackie Brandt?

John George Brandt Jr. is a former Major League Baseball outfielder. He was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as an amateur free agent before the 1953 season, and played for the Cardinals, New York Giants, San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, and Houston Astros.

Brandt made his major league debut on April 21, 1956 against the Milwaukee Braves at Sportsman's Park, then was traded to the New York Giants almost two months later. He had a very good rookie season, batting .298 in 125 games with 12 home runs and 50 runs batted in. In 1959 he won a Gold Glove for his stellar play as the San Francisco Giants regular left fielder, then was traded to Baltimore, where he would have his most productive years.

His best season was 1961, when he was named to the American League All-Star team. Brandt finished ninth in the A.L. batting race with a .297 average, and he had career highs in hits, at bats, runs batted in, runs scored, and on-base percentage. The Orioles had a great year, winning 95 games and only losing 67.

One of the most famous games he was ever involved in took place at Memorial Stadium on September 12, 1964.