Member-only story
Former MLB Star Gus Triandos On Why Casey Stengel Disliked Him, And The Importance Of Being An A**hole
One of baseball’s most memorable players was as well known for his grit as he was his playing ability
Catcher Gus Triandos is still remembered as one of baseball’s most recognizable gritty players. He used his scrappy nature to forge a successful career patrolling behind the plate during the 1950s and 1960s, widely considered baseball’s golden era. This was in spite of his conviction that Hall-of-Fame manager Casey Stengel disliked him, and his pride in being a jerk when he needed to.
A four-time All Star, Triandos played for five teams over the course of 13 seasons (1953–1965). After starting as a prospect with the New York Yankees, he spent the next and best eight years of his career with the Baltimore Orioles where he found his greatest success. This included receiving MVP votes in four seasons, although he never finished higher than 11th.
In 1,206 games, the backstop batted a combined .244 with 167 home runs and 608 RBIs. He was also an above average defender, throwing out 47% of would-be base stealers over the years. Above all else, he was not afraid to speak his mind.
