Bobby Fenwick was a Major League Baseball infielder who played for the Houston Astros in 1972 and the St. Louis Cardinals in 1973. He was born on December 10, 1946, in Naha, Japan, making him the first MLB position player born in Japan. Fenwick was a right-handed batter and thrower, standing 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall and weighing 165 pounds (74 kg). His primary positions were second baseman, shortstop, and pinch runner. He was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the first round of the 1967 June Baseball Draft. Though his MLB career was brief, he contributed as a utility player, appearing in 41 games over two seasons.
Fenwick attended Anoka High School in Minnesota before playing college baseball at the University of Minnesota. His talent was recognized early, leading to his selection by the Giants in the first round of the 1967 draft. After developing in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut on April 26, 1972, for the Houston Astros. Later, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals along with Ray Busse in exchange for Skip Jutze and Milt Ramírez on November 29, 1972. His final MLB appearance was on May 8, 1973. Despite limited playing time, Fenwick showcased his versatility as an infielder.
Fenwick was unique among MLB players due to his Japanese birthplace, making him a historical figure in baseball. His ability to adapt to different infield positions made him a valuable utility player. Unlike star players, Fenwick’s role was more specialized, often used as a pinch runner or defensive substitute. His career was marked by perseverance, as he navigated the challenges of professional baseball despite limited opportunities. His trade history and brief tenure in the majors highlight the competitive nature of MLB, where roster spots are fiercely contested.
Fenwick was known for his dedication to the sport and his team-first mentality. His background as a Japanese-born American player added a unique dimension to his identity. He maintained strong ties to his Minnesota roots, having played high school and college baseball there. His hobbies and personal life remain less documented, but his commitment to baseball was evident throughout his career.
Below are Bobby Fenwick’s MLB statistics: | Year | Team | Games | Batting Avg | OBP | SLG | OPS | HR | RBI | SB | |——|——|——|————|—–|—–|—–|—-|—-|—-|
| 1972 | Houston Astros | 36 | .180 | .226 | .240 | .466 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| 1973 | St. Louis Cardinals | 5 | .167 | .167 | .167 | .333 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Total | – | 41 | .179 | .220 | .232 | .452 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
Fenwick’s career may not have been lengthy, but his presence in MLB history remains significant. His journey from Minnesota to the major leagues, combined with his Japanese birthplace, makes him a fascinating figure in baseball history.