Cy Rigler began as a full-time umpire in 1907 as a the youngest umpire in big league history. Just 24 years old, Rigler spent the next 28 years on the field calling balls and strikes.
The 6’0″, 270 Rigler worked in more than 6,100 games. Only Hall of Fame arbiter Bill Klem worked more games at the time of Rigler’s retirement. In Rigler’s day, umpires for All Star and World Series contests were selected based on merit.
He was chosen along with Klem, Bill McGowan, and Bill Dinneen to call the first All Star Game in 1933. Rigler also worked 10 World Series. Only Klem worked more. Interestingly, Rigler also ranks behind only Klem on the career ejections list.
Autographs of Cy Rigler remain elusive today. Rigler died in 1935 at age 53. Shown here is an album page signed by the umpire, Hall of Fame manager Al Lopez and pitcher Fred Fitzsimmons. When comparing the careers of Rigler and Hank O’Day (HoF class of 2013), it’s difficult to differentiate between the two.