Rusty Staub

Lore & Background

A six-time All-Star known for his hitting prowess, Staub produced 2,716 hits over his playing career, just 284 hits shy of the 3,000 hit plateau. He was an original member of the Montreal Expos and the team's first star. Although he played just 518 of his 2,951 games as an Expo, his enduring popularity led them to retire his number in 1993, while the Mets inducted him into their team Hall of Fame in 1986. Staub was also known for his charitable work through the Rusty Staub Foundation, supporting emergency food pantries in New York; and for establishing the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children's Benefit Fund.

Reader's Guide

Staub was born in New Orleans on April 1, 1944, to Raymond and Alma Staub. He attended Jesuit High School in New Orleans, where he played first base on the baseball team. He signed his first professional contract with the Houston Colt .45s organization in 1961. He played for the Houston Colt .45s/Astros, Montreal Expos, and New York Mets. In 1972, the Mets traded for Staub in exchange for Mike Jorgensen, Tim Foli, and Ken Singleton. In 1973, he helped the Mets win the National League Pennant, batting .423 in the World Series despite a shoulder injury.

Did You Know?

• Staub was nicknamed "Rusty" by a nurse in the hospital shortly after he was born because of his red hair.
• Staub's charitable work for police families was inspired by his uncle, a New Orleans policeman killed in the line of duty.
• He crashed into the outfield wall during Game 4 of the 1973 NLCS, separating his right shoulder, which led to MLB applying padding on outfield walls.