Central Wisconsin News

James "Jimmy" John Block died on August 6, 1937. He was born on March 13, 1885. He played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. He joined the Washington Senators on the same day as Walter Johnson. He later played for the Chicago White Sox. On August 27, 1911, he caught Ed Walsh’s no-hitter.

Block played five seasons in the major leagues. He used the name Jimmy Block during his playing career. In 1910, he married Maria Czaplewski from Milwaukee. After leaving baseball, he became a salesman. He worked for the Miller Brewing Company. He lived and worked in Wisconsin, including time in the City of Rapids area.

His career and life tied him to both baseball and local business. He settled into a regular life after his years in sports. He lived in the region until his death. His story shows how early athletes moved into everyday work after sports. His legacy connects Rapids to early baseball history.