Art Schallock, the last link to a bygone baseball era, has passed away at the age of 100. A World War II veteran and the oldest surviving MLB player, Schallock was a rare breed—a man who served his country and excelled on the field with equal dedication. Growing up in the Bay Area, Schallock spent his high school summers playing semi-pro baseball. In 1946, Schallock joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, marking the start of his baseball career. However, on July 16, 1951, he debuted in MLB after being traded to the Yankees.

Between 1951 and 1955, Schallock appeared in 58 games as a pitcher for the Orioles and Yankees. Schallock pitched in the 1953 World Series for the Yankees and threw two innings in relief against the Dodgers in Game 4, even though he only played seven games during the regular season. That year, Schallock and the Yankees won the World Series after defeating his old squad in six games. However, in his brief career stint, Schallock played only 58 games and ended with a 6-7 record. Bill Greason, a former player in the Negro Leagues who also played for the 1954 Cardinals, is currently the oldest player still alive at the age of 100.

The New York Yankees paid tribute to Art Schallock, sharing a heartfelt message on their X (formerly Twitter) handle: “The Yankees mourn the passing of former Yankees pitcher Art Schallock and extend our deepest condolences to Art’s family, friends, and loved ones.”

Though Schallock’s MLB career was brief, his legacy is undeniable—a World War II veteran, a Yankees pitcher, and a living bridge to baseball’s golden era. Fans have flooded social media, sharing their grief and appreciation for a man who symbolized more than just stats—he represented perseverance, history, and the love of the game.

Legends never fade: Yankees fans bid goodbye to Schallock

“RIP,” the most simple and repeated comments poured in the Yankees’ X handle, and wishing him peace is the best fans can do for their beloved legend. Despite his brief career, Schallock’s passion for the game made him a fan favorite. He was away from the field, but Schallock’s passion for baseball was intact.

A fan called him a GOAT, but is Schallock eligible to be called a GOAT? Well, Schallock’s legacy lies in his simultaneous job with the US Navy and the MLB. He served in the Pacific theater of World War II from 1943 to 1946 after being drafted into the US Navy. 

Art Schallock cannot be defined by words and numbers, and the fans can only offer him rest in peace. His dedication is something that cannot be defined with numbers. After being released in 1946, he pitched for a semi-pro team in San Francisco. During the summer, he struck out 19 batters in a seven-inning game.

A fan is mourning for the Yankees’ 2025 season. Why? The Yankees this year are playing a third fiddle behind the Dodgers and Mets. This year, they are majorly depending on prospects and rookies, along with a few veterans like Aaron Judge and DJ LeMahieu.

Offering condolences to Schallock’s family matters, and his family played an important role in his life. During the 1960s and early 1970s, he and his wife, Donna, won several amateur golf titles in the Bay Area. 

Schallock’s story is one of resilience, talent, and a deep love for the game. In this time of grief, prayer is the only price to be paid, and may he rest in peace.