BABE RUTH & HIS LUCKY CHARM

Little Ray Kelly, often referred to as Babe Ruth’s “lucky charm,” has a fascinating story that intertwines with the lore of one of baseball’s greatest legends. 

Born in New York City in the early 1920s, Ray Kelly was a spirited and lively kid who captured the heart of the Sultan of Swat himself. His time spent with Ruth remains a unique footnote in the annals of baseball history, and the impact he had on Ruth's life and career—whether mystical or coincidental—cemented his place in the legend’s story. 

The story of Ray Kelly and Babe Ruth began in the bustling streets of New York City. By most accounts, Ray Kelly was no more than a precocious young fan when he first encountered Ruth. There are several versions of how Ruth discovered Kelly, but one popular tale suggests that Kelly was introduced to Ruth through a friend of the Yankees. This mutual acquaintance believed Kelly’s exuberant personality and constant admiration for Ruth might endear him to the larger-than-life baseball star.

One afternoon, Kelly attended a Yankees game with this friend and had the chance to meet Babe Ruth in the locker room before the game. Ray, with his boundless energy and unwavering adoration, immediately made an impression on Ruth. Ruth, who had a well-known soft spot for children, was charmed by the young boy. According to baseball historian Harvey Frommer, Ruth liked to surround himself with positive energy and found Kelly’s presence refreshing. Soon, Ray Kelly became a regular fixture at Ruth's side during games.

Though Ruth was known for his supreme confidence and boisterous nature, he was also notoriously superstitious. He believed in various charms and rituals to maintain his on-field success. Ray Kelly quickly became one such charm. Ruth believed that whenever Little Ray Kelly was present at games, the Yankees were more likely to win, and he, personally, would perform better.

In fact, there are documented instances where Ruth insisted that Kelly accompany him to specific games, particularly when he was in a slump, or the Yankees were facing a tough opponent. Baseball folklore expert Thomas Barthel recounted that Ruth’s teammates even began referring to Kelly as the Babe's "rabbit's foot," emphasizing his role as a good luck charm.

One iconic moment involving Kelly came during a particularly crucial game against the St. Louis Browns in 1926. The Yankees were on a losing streak, and Ruth was struggling at the plate. According to a 1926 edition of the New York Times, Ruth was insistent that Kelly be brought to the game to sit in the dugout. With Kelly present, Ruth hit two home runs that day, leading the Yankees to a much-needed victory. After the game, Ruth was quoted as saying, “I knew we were going to win with Little Ray in the dugout.” 

As the years passed and Ruth's career began to wind down, Kelly grew older, and their bond became more like that of an older brother and younger sibling. Eventually, as Ruth retired, the superstitious reliance on Kelly faded from public view. However, their story endured in baseball lore. In interviews during his later years, Ruth would often speak fondly of Kelly, referring to the boy as one of the bright spots during his time with the Yankees.

Kelly himself stayed out of the spotlight in his adult years, though he remained a loyal fan of the Yankees and spoke occasionally about his time as Babe Ruth’s “mascot.” His presence during those years represented more than just a superstitious belief—it was a reflection of Ruth’s deep need for human connection, especially during high-pressure moments.

Ray Kelly's story is now woven into the rich tapestry of baseball legend. His presence might have been symbolic, but to Ruth and the Yankees, it was a reminder that even the greatest of athletes sometimes need a little extra help from unexpected sources.

--Alvin Izzo

BYB Yankee History Contributor