Hall of Fame pitcher and coach who dominated on the mound with a fierce fastball and intimidating presence, leading his team to World Series championships.
Bob Gibson, nicknamed "Gibby" and "Hoot," is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in Major League Baseball history. With a career spanning 16 seasons, Gibson tallied 251 wins, 3,117 strikeouts, and a 2.91 earned run average, cementing his legacy as a dominant force on the mound.
Born on November 9, 1935, in Omaha, Nebraska, Gibson overcame childhood illness to excel in youth sports, particularly basketball and baseball. His athletic prowess earned him contracts with both the Harlem Globetrotters basketball team and the St. Louis Cardinals organization. Gibson ultimately decided to pursue a career in baseball, a decision that would change the course of baseball history.
Gibson became a full-time starting pitcher in July 1961 and earned his first All-Star appearance in 1962. He won two of three games he pitched in the 1964 World Series, then won 20 games in a season for the first time in 1965. Gibson's impressive performance on the mound continued, as he pitched three complete game victories in the 1967 World Series.
The 1968 season was the pinnacle of Gibson's career, as he posted a remarkable 1.12 ERA and recorded 17 strikeouts in Game 1 of the 1968 World Series. This dominant performance earned him the National League Most Valuable Player Award, solidifying his status as one of the greatest pitchers of all time.
Gibson's impressive career was marked by numerous awards and accolades. He was a nine-time All-Star, a two-time World Series Champion, and a two-time Cy Young Award winner. In 1981, Gibson was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
Gibson's impact on the game extends beyond his impressive statistics. He was a fierce competitor who inspired generations of baseball players with his unwavering work ethic and unrelenting passion for the game. At the time of his retirement in 1975, Gibson ranked second only to Walter Johnson among major league pitchers in career strikeouts.
Gibson's personal life was marked by tragedy, as he struggled with health issues in his later years. He passed away on October 2, 2020, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Despite his untimely passing, Gibson's legacy continues to inspire and influence the game he loved.
Bob Gibson's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics and accolades. He was a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations of baseball players. His fierce competitiveness, unwavering work ethic, and unrelenting passion for the game continue to inspire and influence the sport he loved.
Born in 1920
Legendary baseball player and manager who won three World Series championships and was a 24-time All-Star, known for his consistent hitting and iconic stance.
69 Years Old
Legendary shortstop and charismatic broadcaster known for acrobatic defensive plays and iconic backflips, entertaining fans with his unique blend of athleticism and showmanship.
85 Years Old
A legendary baseball player and broadcaster who stole 118 bases in a single season, holding the record for 24 years, and brought excitement to the game with his speed and charisma.
Born in 1916
Hall of Fame right fielder and manager known for his clutch hitting and aggressive base running, helping the St. Louis Cardinals win the 1946 World Series.
Born in 1923
A baseball legend who played, coached, and managed for over 70 years, earning 10 World Series championships and a Hall of Fame induction. He's a beloved figure in baseball history, respected for his dedication and success.
92 Years Old
Hall of Fame manager who led three teams to the World Series, winning one championship, and is known for his aggressive base running style and defensive shifts.
80 Years Old
Legendary baseball figure who won three World Series titles and managed over 5,000 games, earning him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
71 Years Old
Hall of Fame relief pitcher credited with popularizing the split-finger fastball, earning multiple awards and setting numerous records.
