Nickname: "Romie"

New York Yankee system

Playing for Jasper from 1936-39 he became one half of, what was known them , as the Twirling Twins. The other half of the duo was Tom Tucker. Romie led Jasper to the mythical state championship in 1939 and 1940. An overall high school record of 32-4, which included three no-hitters and five one-hitters was followed by a equally sterling legion baseball career during each summer. Jasper Legion teams were led by Romie to three straight state title games. His prowess did not go unnoticed by scouts and he was signed by the Yankees after the 1940 season and played in their minor league system until 1941 when W.W.II beckoned. After beating the parent Yankees in an exhibition game he was called to the big show, but W.W. II got him first. A most promising career was cut short by an arm injury.

A most outstanding accomplishment occurred during the 1940 high school season, when, against Huntingburg, he struck out the first 20 batters he faced, gave up a hit with a two strike count, then struck out the next hitter. Amazing, all 21 outs in the game were via the strike out.