Sam Crawford

The King of Triples

Sam Crawford, known as “Wahoo Sam” for his Ohio roots, was one of baseball’s first true power hitters and a cornerstone of the Deadball Era. Famous for his record-setting triples and partnership with Ty Cobb on the Detroit Tigers, Crawford’s combination of speed, power, and clutch hitting made him one of the game’s most formidable players. Over a remarkable 19-season career (1899–1917), Crawford became a pioneer of the sport and a key figure in its early history.

This collection celebrates Sam Crawford—the Hall of Famer whose legacy as the king of triples and a dynamic offensive force endures to this day.

A Career of Early Brilliance: Stats and Achievements

Sam Crawford’s career numbers underscore his offensive dominance in the Deadball Era:

• Batting Average: .309
• Hits: 2,961
• Triples: 309 (MLB all-time leader)
• Doubles: 458
• Home Runs: 97
• RBIs: 1,525
• Runs Scored: 1,391

Crawford led the league in triples six times, a testament to his speed and ability to drive the ball into gaps. He was also a key run producer, finishing among the league leaders in RBIs nearly every season. His 309 career triples remain a record unlikely to ever be broken.

A Legend of the Deadball Era

During an era defined by small ball and strategic play, Crawford stood out for his ability to combine power and speed. He was known for his aggressive baserunning and his knack for driving in runs in critical moments. His partnership with Ty Cobb in the Tigers’ lineup created one of the most dynamic offensive duos in baseball history.

Crawford helped lead the Detroit Tigers to three consecutive American League pennants (1907–1909), anchoring a lineup that was among the most feared in baseball.

The King of Triples

Crawford’s record of 309 career triples is one of the most enduring marks in baseball history. Known for his ability to hit the ball into gaps and take extra bases, Crawford turned what seemed like routine doubles into exciting triples with his speed and aggressive baserunning.

In 1914, he hit an astonishing 26 triples, a single-season feat that still stands as a major league record. His unique combination of power and speed made him a terror for opposing defenses.

Two Stories That Define Sam Crawford

1. The 1908 Pennant Race:
   In one of the most dramatic pennant races in baseball history, Crawford’s clutch hitting helped propel the Tigers to the AL championship. His ability to deliver key hits in tight games made him a cornerstone of the team’s success during their run of dominance.

2. The Rivalry and Partnership with Ty Cobb:
   While Crawford and Cobb’s relationship was famously tense, their combined offensive prowess made the Tigers’ lineup one of the most dangerous in baseball. Crawford’s steady power complemented Cobb’s aggressive baserunning, creating a tandem that terrorized pitchers and defenses alike.

The Most Iconic Sam Crawford Cards

Sam Crawford’s cards are treasured by collectors who value his role as one of baseball’s earliest superstars and his enduring records.

1. 1909–1911 T206 Sam Crawford (Batting or Portrait):
   Part of the iconic T206 set, Crawford’s cards are highly sought after and represent his Hall of Fame career during the peak of the Deadball Era.

2. 1915 Cracker Jack Sam Crawford (#30):
   This beautifully designed card captures Crawford during his final years with the Tigers and remains a favorite among vintage card collectors.

3. 1907 Dietsche Postcards Sam Crawford:
   Featuring early photography, this collectible celebrates Crawford’s contributions to the Tigers’ early dominance.

The Lasting Legacy of Sam Crawford

Sam Crawford’s career was about more than just records—it was about pioneering a style of play that combined power, speed, and consistency. His remarkable achievements, especially his all-time triples record, remain a testament to his unique abilities and his impact on the game’s early years.

Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1957, Crawford remains a revered figure in baseball history. His exploits on the field, particularly during the Deadball Era, continue to inspire fans and players alike.

The Hall of Fame Exchange proudly celebrates the legacy of Sam Crawford: the king of triples, the Tigers’ cornerstone, and one of baseball’s earliest power hitters. From his record-setting triples to his Hall of Fame career, Crawford’s story is a timeless testament to greatness.

As long as baseball honors its pioneers, Sam Crawford’s name will remain synonymous with innovation, excellence, and the beauty of the Deadball Era.