Solly Hofman

File:Solly Hofman.jpg

Solly Hofman, circa 1911.

Arthur Frederick "Solly" Hofman (born October 29, 1882 in St. Louis, Missouri; died March 10, 1956 in St. Louis, Missouri) was a Major League Baseball player from 1903 to 1916. He played the majority of his 1,175 professional games in the outfield.

His nickname was "Circus Solly". Some attribute this name to a comic strip of the era, while others attribute it to spectacular catches while fielding.

In the 1906 World Series, Hofman batted leadoff and played center field for the Chicago Cubs against their crosstown rivals, the Chicago White Sox. He had seven hits and three walks during the Series, batting .304.

Hofman also was the Cubs' center fielder on Oct. 14, 1908 when they defeated the Detroit Tigers 2-0 to win the 1908 World Series. He hit .316 for the Series. It was the Cubs' last championship to date.

He is considered by some to be the first great utility player in baseball due to his versatility.

Personal

He was the uncle of Bobby Hofman of the New York Giants.

See also

• List of Major League Baseball leaders in career stolen bases

Sources

• Career statistics and player information from Baseball Reference, or Baseball Reference (Minors)
• SABR biography