A memorable player from the Bill Veeck era has passed away.
As first reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, former White Sox shortstop Harry Chappas has died at the age of 66. His passing came on September 15 in Florida due to cancer, the publication reports.
Chappas, who played in 72 games for the White Sox over three seasons (1978-80), was known more for his stature than his play on the field. Then broadcaster Harry Caray measured Chappas and publicly declared him to be 5 ft. 3 in., making him one of the shortest players at the time. Chappas later stated in an interview with Sports Illustrated that he was closer to 5 ft. 5 in., leading many to speculate whether Veeck added him to the roster for his talent or strictly the publicity alone.
After beginning his baseball career with the ex-Negro league Indianapolis Clowns, which was then racially integrated and known more for their entertainment product, Chappas signed with the White Sox in 1976 as a sixth-round draft pick. He impressed Veeck enough with his good performances for the Appleton Foxes in 1978 that he earned a September promotion. In his 20-game stint, Chappas held his own with a .267/.318/.280 slash and fielded 92 chances without an error.
Chappas later secured his place with the team after a strong spring in 1979. During this time, he garnered national attention after appearing on a Sports Illustrated cover next to the headline, “The Littlest Rookie.” Chappas would go on to start as the White Sox’s Opening Day shortstop before getting sent back down to the minors just two weeks later.
Following the 1980 season, Chappas would never make another appearance in the majors. He ended his short career in Chicago having hit .245/.307/.283 (45-for-184) with one home run and 12 driven in.
According to the Sun-Times, memorial services are being planned in Coral Springs, Florida.
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