Description
In 1939 Gerry stepped up into the senior baseball ranks with his hometown Middleton Cardinals of the Western Counties Baseball league. During this rookie season he hurled a one hitter versus the always strong, Yarmouth Gateways. From 1940-45 Gerry served in the R.C.A.F., primarily on the Pacific coast and played with the Canadian Military Baseball team that played their American military counterparts who were loaded with professionals from both the American and National Leagues. Against such start-studded opponents Gerry more than held his own.
In 1946, “Fat” again suited up with the hometown Cardinals, first in the Valley League and then from 1947-49 in the semi professional Halifax and district league. In 1946 Gerry’s record was 10 wins 0 losses as a fast fireball chucker, considered by many as the best right-handed pitcher in the province. After the withdrawal of the Cards form the Halifax and District League in 1949, he continued to star on the mound and in the outfield for the Intermediate Cardinals through the mid 1950’s. “Fat” had a starring role with the Cards in their match to the Maritime Intermediate title in 1951.
Throughout much of his Baseball career, during the winter months, Gerry also starred as a fleet-footed forward with various editions of the Middleton Maple Leaf Hockey team. Gerry “Fat” Ray passed away in Middleton on March 27th, 1978.
