Al Lopez was a very capable catcher for 20 season in the major leagues, mainly for Brookyn, the Boston Braves and the Pirates. He was a two-time All-Star, and his 1918 games behind the plate was a record that stood for many years until Carlton Fisk. He then turned into a successful manager, heading the Indians and the White Sox from 1951-1969. He won two pennants (one with each club) and retired with a .584 winning percentage. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a manager in 1977.
Upon Lopez' death in 2005 at the age of 97, he had the longest lifesapan of any member of the Hall.
The Autograph: Lopez had an interesting outlook on autographs. For many years he freely signed, and then abruptly stopped, returning items unsigned sent to him. He started signing again, and then stopped.
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