TurkeyMike, an intriguing and divisive figure in the world of professional baseball, held the attention of spectators with his striking and unconventional manner of walking, a trait that became an integral part of his enduring appeal.
As the 1905-1906 season unfolded, the pinnacle of his illustrious career was reached, with Donlin's extraordinary talent and captivating presence on the field catapulting him to the forefront as the star outfielder for the esteemed New York Giants, thereby earning him the distinguished and revered title of "the baseball idol of Manhattan".
Donlin's journey on the iconic Great White Way led to a chance encounter and subsequent union with the talented vaudeville star Mabel Hite. This serendipitous meeting culminated in the pair co-starring in a baseball-themed play titled "Stealing Home," which astonishingly enjoyed a remarkable three-year run, captivating audiences and solidifying the duo's reputation as a formidable on-stage presence.
After the untimely demise of his cherished wife, Mabel, in 1912 due to the relentless progression of cancer, Donlin felt compelled to rekindle his passion for baseball, albeit briefly. However, the cumulative effects of his advancing age and recurring absences from the sport, which were largely attributed to his burgeoning aspirations in the theatrical world, ultimately led to the conclusion of his illustrious baseball career.
Following this poignant chapter in his life, Donlin made the bold decision to relocate to the city of angels, where his close confidant and fellow thespian, the esteemed John Barrymore, proved instrumental in securing him a foothold in the competitive landscape of Hollywood.
The cinematic endeavors of Donlin, a talented individual who, despite not achieving widespread recognition on the big screen, still managed to accumulate an impressive total of 53 film credits, predominantly comprising minor roles or appearances as an extra.
Following a trade that brought him to the New York Giants from Pittsburgh in the year 1912, Donlin made the deliberate decision to forgo reporting to the team, opting instead to dedicate his time and energy to the pursuit of a film career, which, unfortunately, failed to come to fruition.
