A to Z Angels: Dave Chalk

Name: David Lee Chalk
Nickname: Dave
Position: Shortstop/ Third Base                                         
Bats: Right                                                    
Throws: Right
Number(s): 7

Years Played As an Angel: 1973-1979
Angels’ Stats: .255 BA, .327 OBP, 2474 AB’s
Career Stats: .257, .325, .310

How He Was Acquired: Angels first round pick (10th) in the 1972 Free Agent Draft

Why You Should Know Him: Dave made the move to the majors quickly as he got a “cup of coffee” in 1973.  However, his true rookie season was 1974 which was impressive enough to garner him a spot on that year’s American League All-Star team. Chalk also made the All-Star squad the following season (1975).

Initially, Chalk struggled on the defensive part of his game.  His rookie season saw him make an astounding 29 errors.  However, Chalk refined his defense to the point where he became an adept fielder at both Short and Third.

Chalk’s finest season was probably 1977 which saw him achieve a .277 BA and a .345 OBP.  While it would be easy to lump him in with the other light hitting shortstops that played for the Angels in that era I believe it would be a mistake.  Chalk started for the Angels for a majority of the 1970’s and was a solid fixture for the franchise.

Memorable Moments/Games: Chalk was on the 1974 and 1975 American League All-Star rosters. 

Anecdotes and Quotes: Going to the games as a youngster, my step brother and I tried to come up with nicknames for a lot of the Angel players.  Brian Downing was “Jigsaw man” because of his many injuries, Joe Rudi was “grand slam man” due to his, well, grand slams, and Chalk was “choke up man”.  We were always amazed at how high up the bat handle his grip was.