A baseball player turned politician, serving in the US House of Representatives from 1969 to 1975, known for his pitching skills and later, his conservative politics.
Mizell was born on August 13, 1930, in Leakesville, Mississippi, but grew up in Vinegar Bend, Alabama, where he developed his passion for baseball. He was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1949 and made his MLB debut with the team in 1952. Throughout his baseball career, Mizell played for the Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and New York Mets, earning two All-Star Game selections and a World Series championship with the Pirates in 1960.
After retiring from baseball in 1962, Mizell settled in Midway, North Carolina, where he became involved in local politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1968, representing North Carolina's 5th congressional district as a Republican. Mizell served three terms from 1969 to 1975, earning a reputation as a conservative and advocate for environmental protection.
After losing his re-election bid in 1974, Mizell was appointed by three U.S. Presidents – Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush – to various positions. He remained active in politics until his passing on February 21, 1999.
Wilmer "Vinegar Bend" Mizell's remarkable journey from athlete to politician serves as an inspiration to many. His dedication to public service and environmental protection has left a lasting impact on North Carolina and the nation. Through his achievements, Mizell demonstrated that success can be achieved in multiple fields with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference.
92 Years Old
Legendary baseball player who broke Babe Ruth's home run record in 1974, becoming an iconic figure in American sports history.
94 Years Old
Hall of Fame third baseman and manager who played 17 seasons with the Braves, winning two MVP awards and hitting 512 home runs.
Born in 1921
Legendary left-handed pitcher and coach who won 363 games, a record for left-handers, and coached the Cleveland Indians. He's a 17-time All-Star and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973.
87 Years Old
A legendary knuckleballer and 300-game winner, known for his unorthodox pitching style and longevity in the major leagues.
60 Years Old
Left-handed pitcher with 305 wins and 10 All-Star appearances, known for his control and changeup, leading the Atlanta Braves to a World Series title in 1995.
60 Years Old
A legendary baseball player, coach, and manager renowned for his exceptional pitching skills, earning four Cy Young Awards and a place in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
59 Years Old
Legendary pitcher and broadcaster, known for his dominant fastball and 20-year career with the Atlanta Braves, including a Cy Young Award and eight All-Star appearances.
54 Years Old
A legendary third baseman who played his entire 19-year career with the Atlanta Braves, earning eight National League batting titles and a World Series championship. He's a sure-fire Hall of Famer and one of the greatest switch-hitters in baseball history.
