Dick Hoblitzel

Richard Carleton Hoblitzell (October 26, 1888 – November 14, 1962) was an American professional baseball player who played first base in the major leagues from 1908 to 1918. He played for the Cincinnati Reds and Boston Red Sox. Nicknamed "Doc" by his teammates, Hoblitzell's baseball career was cut short with his World War I induction into the U.S. Army as a dentist in 1918.

Early life Born in Waverly, West Virginia, Hoblitzell excelled in football at Parkersburg High School in Parkersburg, West Virginia; he was the team's halfback and kicker. Hoblitzell was often assigned to room with Babe Ruth when the team traveled, as the team's management hoped that Hoblitzell would be a good influence on the rowdy superstar.

Hoblitzell's baseball career was interrupted by his induction into the U.S. Army Dental Corps in 1918, and he never returned to the major leagues. At various times, Hoblitzell also coached baseball at West Point and worked in newspaper and radio. Though Hoblitzell did not open a dental practice, he performed some dental work for friends at his home. He died of colon cancer in 1962.