Left-handed pitcher who played for several MLB teams, including the Milwaukee Braves and New York Giants, earning an All-Star selection in 1955.
When it comes to baseball legends, Don Liddle is a name that echoes through the annals of history. This left-handed pitcher is best known for his pivotal role in the 1954 World Series, where he threw the pitch that resulted in the iconic "The Catch" by Willie Mays.
In Game 1 of the 1954 World Series, Liddle faced off against Vic Wertz, throwing a pitch that would become etched in the memories of baseball fans forever. Wertz's long drive was seemingly destined for the outfield, but Mays' incredible back-to-the-plate, over-the-shoulder grab preserved the 2-2 tie. The Giants went on to win the game in extra innings, sweeping the Series in four straight contests.
Liddle's professional baseball career spanned four seasons, from 1953 to 1956, during which he played for the Milwaukee Braves, New York Giants, and St. Louis Cardinals. Although his career was marked by several notable moments, it was his role in "The Catch" that cemented his place in baseball history.
In 1954, Liddle was part of a pivotal five-player trade that brought him to the Giants, along with fellow left-handed pitcher Johnny Antonelli, in exchange for 1951 playoff hero Bobby Thomson. Antonelli went on to win 21 games for the 1954 Giants, leading them to the National League pennant.
Throughout his 117-game career, Liddle started 54 games and pitched 427.2 innings, giving up 397 hits and 203 bases on balls, while striking out 198. He retired from baseball after the 1957 season, spending his final year in minor league baseball.
Don Liddle was born on May 25, 1925, in Mount Carmel, Illinois. He passed away on June 5, 2000, at the age of 75, in his hometown. Liddle's legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the field, as he continues to inspire new generations of baseball enthusiasts.
In the locker room after the game, Liddle quipped, "Well, I got my man," joking about his good fortune and Mays' incredible athleticism. This lighthearted comment has become an enduring testament to the camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines baseball.
Liddle's contribution to baseball history extends beyond his playing career. "The Catch" has become an iconic moment in American sports, symbolizing the excitement and drama that defines the game. It has inspired countless documentaries, films, and books, cementing its place in popular culture.
Don Liddle's remarkable career and unforgettable moments on the field have secured his place in baseball history, making him an enduring symbol of excellence and sportsmanship.
Born in 1925
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