The oldest bat boy in Major League Baseball (MLB) history is Dave “Skippy” McBride. He is a remarkable man who has held the title for more than 50 years. Despite his advanced age, McBride continues to serve as the bat boy for the Chicago Cubs, a team he has been with since he was a teenager.
Early Life of Dave “Skippy” McBride
Dave “Skippy” McBride was born in Chicago in 1945. He was the youngest of five children, and his father worked as a pipefitter at the Union Stock Yards. Growing up, McBride was a huge baseball fan and dreamed of one day playing in the major leagues.
In 1957, when McBride was 12 years old, the Chicago Cubs invited him to be their bat boy for the season. He quickly accepted the offer and began working at Wrigley Field, the home of the Cubs.
McBride’s Journey to Becoming the Oldest Bat Boy
For the next several years, McBride continued to work at Wrigley Field as a bat boy. He quickly became a fixture in the clubhouse, and the players and coaches began to refer to him as “Skippy.”
In 1967, McBride graduated from high school and enlisted in the United States Navy. He served for four years before returning home to Chicago. When he got back, he was eager to get back to work as a bat boy.
By this time, the Cubs had moved to their new home at Wrigley Field, and McBride was welcomed back with open arms. He continued to serve as the team’s bat boy, and he quickly became a beloved member of the team.
In the years that followed, McBride continued to work as the team’s bat boy. He was a fixture in the clubhouse and was known for his infectious enthusiasm for the game. As the years passed, McBride began to develop a reputation as the “oldest” batboy in the league.
McBride Becomes the Oldest Bat Boy in the MLB
In 2009, McBride finally became the oldest bat boy in Major League Baseball. He was 64 years old at the time and had held the position for more than 50 years. He was officially recognized as the oldest bat boy in the league by the Chicago Cubs, and he continues to serve in the role today.
McBride’s Legacy in the MLB
McBride is an inspiring figure in the MLB and an example of someone who has dedicated his life to the sport he loves. He is a beloved member of the Cubs organization and a source of inspiration to those around him.
In 2015, McBride was inducted into the Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the team. He is also the recipient of many awards, including the MLB’s “Good Guy” Award in 2014.
Conclusion
Dave “Skippy” McBride is the oldest bat boy in MLB history. He has held the title for more than 50 years and continues to serve as the bat boy for the Chicago Cubs. McBride is an inspiring figure in the MLB and an example of someone who has dedicated his life to the sport he loves. He is a beloved member of the Cubs organization and a source of inspiration to those around him.