by Max Silberman

One of the reunion regular guests was Randy Gumpert - who died November 25, 2008.

Since he gave up Mickey Mantle’s first home run on May 1, 1951, he was often asked to add 5-1-51 to his autograph. He sometimes pretended to be annoyed by this remembrance but in fact he enjoyed the reunions as much as the fans. He was indeed a wonderful gentleman.

His major league career began with the A’s in 1936. At the age of 18 he faced another teenager, 17 year old Bob Feller! In 1939 he was picked up by the Yankees and after war service returned to them later going to the White Sox, Red Sox and Senators. The 1952 season was his last in the majors. Randy Gumpert spent the next several years scouting for the New York Yankees and Major League Scouting Bureau.

He was always accompanied by his wife Ann at the reunions and we extend our deepest sympathy to her and his family.

His passing leaves 56 living Philadelphia Athletics. It was an honor and pleasure to have known him.