Larry Ressler

Lawrence P. Ressler (August 10, 1848 – June 12, 1918) was an American professional baseball player. He was the first French-born major league baseball player. He enlisted in the 213th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment at 14, and served for one year during the Civil War, before his mother arranged to have him discharged due to his age. Before playing baseball professionally, he worked as a molder.

He was the captain and manager of the Reading Actives in the minor leagues, and for the Washington Nationals during the 1875 season.

In later life he managed hotels, and was a police sergeant and civil servant. He was active in Democratic politics.

Larry Ressler died from gastritis at St. Joseph's Hospital in Reading, Pennsylvania on June 12, 1918.