Dave Bancroft was a professional baseball shortstop and manager who played in the Major Leagues from 1915 to 1930. He was born in Sioux City, Iowa on April 20, 1891 and began his professional career in 1909 with the Sioux City Cornhuskers of the Western League.

Bancroft joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1915 and quickly established himself as one of the best shortstops in the game. He won the National League batting title in 1920 and was a two-time All-Star. He was also a leader in the field, leading the National League in putouts, assists, and double plays three times each.

In 1921, Bancroft was traded to the New York Giants and helped the team win the 1922 World Series. He was named the National League Most Valuable Player that season. He was also a member of the Giants' 1924 World Series championship team.

After the 1926 season, Bancroft was traded to the Boston Braves and became the team's player-manager. He led the Braves to the World Series in 1928, but lost to the New York Yankees. He retired from playing in 1930 and continued to manage the Braves until he was fired in 1932.

Bancroft was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971. He was known as a great defensive shortstop and a strong leader. He is remembered as one of the greatest players of his era and one of the best shortstops in baseball history.

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