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Averill, Earl

Howard Earl Averill
Born: May 21, 1902, Snohomish, Washington
Died: August 16, 1983, Everett, Washington
Bats: 
Left
Throws: 
Right
Played For: 
Cleveland Indians (1930-1939), Detroit Tigers (1939-1940), Boston Braves (1941)
Elected to the Hall of Fame by Veterans Committee: 1975
Biography: 

The first American League player to hit a home run in his initial Major League at-bat, Earl Averill became a nimble fielder and outstanding offensive performer during his 13-year playing career, primarily with the Cleveland Indians. He hit over .300 during eight seasons and finished with a lifetime average of .318. A fan favorite, The Earl of Snohomish also smacked 238 home runs and was elected to the American League All-Star team six times.

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Induction Speech

Did You Know: 
that Earl Averill was the only American League outfielder to be named to each of the first six All-Star Games (1933-38)?
I kept two things in mind at the plate. One was that I was up there to swing; the other was to keep my eye on my target. That was the pitcher's cap. I always aimed for that, tried to go to the middle. But, if the ball was outside, I'd hit to left.