In a somber moment for the baseball community, the world marks the passing of Bob Veale, the towering left-handed pitcher who played a pivotal role in the Pittsburgh Pirates' success during the 1960s and early 1970s. Veale, whose career was characterized by a devastating fastball and formidable presence on the mound, passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and leadership both on and off the field.
A Storied Career
Bob Veale's Major League Baseball tenure extended over thirteen commendable seasons, predominantly with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he became a fixture in their pitching rotation. Known for his extraordinary strikeout ability, Veale led the majors in strikeouts in 1964, a testament to his skill in overpowering hitters.
However, Veale's career was not without its struggles. He led the National League in walks issued on four occasions, a reflection of the challenges that often accompany pitchers with overwhelming pitching velocity. Despite these hurdles, he managed to secure a respectable career ERA of 3.07 and maintained a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 1.98 over his 397 appearances.
Impact and Legacy with the Pirates
Veale's contribution to the Pirates went beyond mere statistics. He played an integral part in the team securing back-to-back division titles and was a key figure in their historic 1971 World Series victory. In that series, although the Pirates lost Game 2 to the Baltimore Orioles, Veale showcased his adaptability by pitching in relief, reflecting his team-first mentality and versatility.
Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting paid tribute, saying, "Bob was an integral member of the Pirates who helped our team capture back-to-back division titles as well as the 1971 World Series. He was one of the most dominant left-handed pitchers in all of Major League Baseball during his remarkable big league career that he proudly spent a majority of as a member of the Pirates."
Beyond the Mound
After hanging up his cleats, Veale stayed connected to the sport, transitioning into roles as a scout and coach, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of players. His early days saw him as a bat boy and batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, where he cultivated his love for the game and honed skills that would later define his career.
Veale's legacy extends into the corridors of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, into which he was rightfully inducted in 2006, a testament to his contribution to sports in his home state and beyond.
Celebrated Achievements
Among Veale's accolades are consecutive All-Star Game appearances in 1965 and 1966, signaling his standing among the elite pitchers of his era. His estimated 24.7 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference, further underscores his impact on the field, highlighting a career that, while not always perfect, was built on resilience, skill, and dedication.
Remembering Veale, Bob Nutting echoed sentiments shared by many: "He was a great man who will be missed." The potent combination of Veale's competitive spirit and his commitment to the sport leaves an indelible mark, one that continues to inspire players and fans alike.
As baseball reflects on the contributions of Bob Veale, the memories of his time with the Pirates and his broader influence on the game stand as a powerful reminder of what it means to leave one's mark in sports history. Veale's story is a blend of personal triumphs and professional achievements, all of which helped elevate the game and inspire countless individuals who witnessed his journey from the Negro Leagues to the pinnacles of Major League Baseball.