What player first used or invented the shin guard?

by Johnny Randolph
(Newport or )

Johnny asked: What player first used or invented the shin guard? We were just wonderin.

Rick answered: Johnny, thank you for your question.

Shin guards were invented by Roger Bresnahan, a professional baseball player and manager from 1901-1945.

A newspaper quote from the time stated,"the latest protection for catcher's (worn by Roger Bresnahan) looks rather clumsy, besides delaying a game while the guards are strapped above the knee and around the ankle, doubtful the fad will ever become popular."

Guess they were wrong on that one.

Yours in baseball,

Rick