Billy Gumbert (August 8, 1865 April 13, 1946) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher in the 19th century.

Biography

Gumbert was born William Skeen Gumbert in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on August 8, 1865. His brother, Ad Gumbert, and great nephew, Harry Gumbert, were also Major League Baseball pitchers.

He is recognized as the first pitcher in Major League baseball history (third MLB player overall) - and the first player in the then-newly christened National League - to hit a home run in their first at-bat, which he accomplished on June 19, 1890. It would be the only home run of his career.

He also played football as a lineman for the Pittsburgh Athletic Club.

Death and interment

Billy Gumbert died in his home town of Pittsburgh and was buried in Homewood Cemetery.

See also

• List of Major League Baseball players with a home run in their first major league at bat

Sources