Mike Sandlock

Who is Mike Sandlock?

Michael Joseph Sandlock is a former utility player in Major League Baseball who played for three different teams from 1942 to 1953. Listed at 6 ft 1 in, 180 lb., he was a switch-hitter and threw right-handed. He was born in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. With the death of Connie Marrero on April 23, 2014, Sandlock is the oldest living former major league player.

Basically a catcher, Sandlock also saw action at shortstop and at second and third base. He entered the majors in 1942 with the Boston Braves, spending one year with them before serving during World War II. After his discharge, he returned to Boston and later played for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He also spent time in the Pacific Coast League with the Hollywood Stars and returned to the majors with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1953, his last major league year. His most productive season came in 1945 with Brooklyn, when he hit .282 with two home runs and 17 runs batted in in 80 games played, all career-highs.

In a five-season career, Sandlock was a .240 hitter with two home runs and 31 RBI in 195 games, including 34 runs, 19 doubles, two triples, and two stolen bases.