Boston Red Sox: 30 Greatest Players in Team History
21: Harry Hooper, OF (1909-1920)
Harry Hooper was a stable for the Red Sox during their early 20th century run of World Series championships. He played with the team from 1909 until 1920, in that time he captured four World Series championships (1912, 1915, 1916, and 1918).
Hooper, a right fielder, was widely regarded as a great defensive outfielder in his day and was always among the league leaders in put-outs during his playing day. Along with Tris Speaker and Duffy Lewis, the trio would man the outfield at Fenway Park and were considered one of the best outfield trios in baseball history.
While he was probably best known for his defense, Hooper was among the greatest lead off hitters of his generation. Blessed with great speed, contact ability and a strong eye at the plate, Hooper hit .281/.368/.387 for his career, and stole 300 bases in 383 attempts in his 12-year career with the Red Sox.
In a breakout decade for the Red Sox, their string of four championships during that decade are largely thanks to Hooper. His ability to set the table and play incredible outfield defense was a true game changer for the Red Sox.
Bio on Hooper was given by DJ Smith. Check out his work, and give him a follow on Twitter, @dj_smitty.
Next: Number 20