Ted Abernathy

Ted Abernathy

Ted Abernathy was born on March 6th, 1933

Full Name: Ted Abernathy
Nationality: American
Profession: Baseball player
Position: Pitcher
MLB Debut: 1955
Teams Played For: Washington Senators
Notable Achievement: World Series champion
Coaching Career: Minnesota Twins

Relief pitcher who played for several teams, including the Washington Senators and Cincinnati Reds, earning multiple All-Star selections and a World Series championship. Known for his unique submarine-style pitching delivery.

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Ted Abernathy: The Master of the Submarine Pitch

A Relieving Presence in the Game

Ted Abernathy is widely regarded as one of the most dominant relief pitchers in Major League Baseball history. With 148 saves to his name, he led the National League in saves twice, in 1965 and 1967, and left an indelible mark on the game.

The Early Years

Born on March 6, 1933, in Stanley, North Carolina, Abernathy was the son of Wade and Genora McGinnis Abernathy. He graduated from Stanley High School and signed with the Washington Senators in 1952. After marrying Margie Clemmer in 1953, the couple had two sons, Ted Jr. and Todd.

A Career Marred by Injury

Abernathy's pitching career was not without its setbacks. He tore two muscles in his shoulder during his freshman year of high school, forcing him to change his pitching motion from an overhead delivery to a three-quarter delivery. Later, in 1959, he underwent shoulder surgery, which left his career in doubt. However, he adapted by switching to a sidearm delivery, developing a submarine pitch that would become his signature.

Military Service and Minor Leagues

During the Korean War, Abernathy was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served with medics, drove an ambulance, and repaired vehicles. He served at Fort McPherson, Georgia, and was discharged as a corporal in time to join the Senators for the 1955 season. Throughout the 1950s, Abernathy split time between the Senators' major league squad and their farm system.

A 14-Year MLB Career

Abernathy made his MLB debut with the Senators in April 1955 and went on to play for seven different teams over 14 seasons. He compiled a 63-69 record with 765 strikeouts and a 3.46 ERA in 1,147.23 innings pitched. Abernathy gave up 1,010 hits and permitted 592 bases on balls.

Notable Achievements

Legacy

Ted Abernathy's remarkable career and adaptability in the face of injury have made him a beloved figure in baseball history. His mastery of the submarine pitch and his impressive relief pitching statistics continue to inspire new generations of players. Abernathy's legacy serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation in the game.
Timeline
1933
Birth
Ted Abernathy was born on April 30th in Stanberry, Missouri, USA.
1955
MLB Debut
Abernathy made his Major League Baseball debut with the Washington Senators.
1967
World Series Champion
Abernathy won the World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals.
1972
Retired from Baseball
Abernathy retired from professional baseball.
2004
Passing
Ted Abernathy passed away on December 16th at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy in American baseball.
Ted Abernathy

Ted Abernathy Quiz

Ted Abernathy was known for his unique __________ pitching delivery.

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FAQ
What was Ted Abernathys baseball career like?
Ted Abernathy was an American baseball player who pitched in the major leagues from 1955 to 1972. He played for several teams, including the Washington Senators and the Cincinnati Reds.
What was Ted Abernathys role in the Cincinnati Reds?
Ted Abernathy was a key relief pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds during their championship seasons in the 1960s, helping the team win two National League pennants.
What awards did Ted Abernathy receive?
Ted Abernathy was named the National Leagues Most Valuable Relief Pitcher in 1965 and was an All-Star in 1967.
What was Ted Abernathys pitching style?
Ted Abernathy was known for his sidearm delivery and sinkerball, which made him an effective ground-ball pitcher.
How did Ted Abernathy influence the game of baseball?
Ted Abernathys success as a relief pitcher helped to establish the importance of bullpens in modern baseball, paving the way for future generations of relievers.

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