Definition
Virgil Eugene Stallcup (March 23 1932 – February 23 1983) was an American professional baseball infielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Cincinnati Redlegs/Reds from 1954 to 1956.
Overview
Born in Dallas, Texas, Stallcup signed with the Cincinnati organization after graduating from high school. He made his MLB debut on April 13 1954 as a shortstop. Over three seasons, he appeared in 269 major‑league games, primarily at shortstop and second base. Stallcup batted left‑handed and threw right‑handed. After his major‑league tenure, he continued to play in the minor leagues until 1962, after which he retired from professional baseball. He died in his hometown of Dallas at the age of 50.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Virgil” derives from the Roman poet Publius Vergilius Maro, commonly used in English‑speaking countries. The surname “Stallcup” is of English origin, historically associated with occupational or locational roots, possibly referring to a “stall” (a booth or market stand) and “cup” (a small container), though specific genealogical details for this family name are not documented.
Characteristics
- Position: Shortstop / Second baseman
- Batting/Throwing: Bats left, throws right
- Physical stature: Listed at 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) and 185 lb (84 kg) during his playing career
- Statistical highlights (MLB, 1954‑1956):
- Batting average: .244
- Home runs: 2
- Runs batted in (RBIs): 55
- Games played: 269
- Known for solid defensive abilities and a contact‑oriented hitting approach rather than power.
Related Topics
- Cincinnati Reds (formerly Cincinnati Redlegs) – the MLB franchise for which Stallcup played
- Major League Baseball shortstops and second basemen of the 1950s
- Minor league baseball in the United States (particularly the Triple‑A and Double‑A affiliates of the Cincinnati organization)
- Baseball statistics and player evaluation metrics (batting average, RBIs, defensive positions)