The 24 year big league hurler known as "Knucksie" turns 81 today.
Phillip Henry Niekro was born in Blaine, Ohio, on April 1, 1939, played high school baseball at Bridgeport HS in Ohio, turned down college offers to pursue pro baseball, and signed with the Milwaukee Braves on July 19, 1958.
Niekro's first black type on the back of his baseball card was his National League leading 1.87 ERA in 1967.
Phil would go on to win 318 games in the big leagues, striking out 3,342 batters pitching for the Braves, Indians, and Blue Jays.
As I finish up this quick post, remember to be safe, stay at home, and practice social distancing if you have to go out.
Enjoy your day, and, as always, PLAY BALL! ⚾
Happy birthday Phil Niekro!
ReplyDeleteYou give that picture back right now. Why, I oughta give you a knuckle sandwich. Social distancing saved ya this time, Sharpie. ;)
ReplyDeleteNiekro turned 40 right before the 1979 season. The dude won 121 MLB games in his 40's. Happy birthday!
ReplyDeleteI have some Tigers cards for you as requested (including a couple of Boyds!) - go ahead and shoot me an email at cardsoncards [at] gmail with your mailing address when you get a chance.
ReplyDeleteSent, many thanks.
Delete