Remembering Bob Veale: A Legend on the Mound
Bob Veale, a name etched in the annals of Major League Baseball history, has passed away at the venerable age of 89. In a career highlighted by remarkable achievements and contributions both on and off the field, Veale made an indelible mark as one of the most formidable left-handed pitchers of his era.
Veale's journey in professional baseball is a tale of perseverance and excellence spanning thirteen big-league seasons, where he predominantly showcased his prowess with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Known for his towering presence on the mound and a fastball that kept hitters on edge, Veale was a force to be reckoned with during his tenure in the majors. In 1964, he claimed the crown as the Major League strikeout leader, exemplifying his knack for overpowering batters.
Despite wrestling with control issues that saw him lead the National League in walks on four occasions, Veale’s overall performance was of exceptional caliber. His career earned run average (ERA) stood at an impressive 3.07, a testament to his ability to keep runs in check. Over his 397 appearances, he maintained a 1.98 strikeout-to-walk ratio, underscoring his capacity to strike out batters regularly while occasionally struggling with control.
Veale's time with the Pirates was marked by team success as much as his personal achievements. He played a pivotal role in the Pirates' winning campaigns, helping secure back-to-back division titles. His contributions were instrumental during the 1971 World Series, where Pittsburgh emerged victorious. Even in moments of defeat, like the Game 2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles during the World Series, Veale's presence in relief underscored his importance to the team.
A Lasting Legacy
Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting captures the essence of Veale's contributions with his poignant words: "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."
Veale’s legacy extends beyond his playing days. After hanging up his cleats, he continued to impart his baseball wisdom, taking roles as a scout and coach, further nurturing the game's next generations. His lifelong association with baseball began in its more modest arenas. As a youth, Veale served as a bat boy and later a batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the revered Negro Leagues, a testament to his early passion and dedication to the sport.
Recognized Excellence
Bob Veale's excellence did not go unnoticed. In the mid-1960s, he made consecutive appearances at the All-Star Game in 1965 and 1966, spotlighting his status among the elite players of the time. His career contributions have been quantified with an estimated 24.7 Wins Above Replacement, according to Baseball Reference, further cementing his value and impact as a player.
Signifying his influence and contributions to the sport, Veale's recognition extended beyond the national domains of baseball. In 2006, he was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting honor for a man who proudly represented his home state on baseball's biggest stages.
In the reflections of those who knew him and the records that chronicle his illustrious career, Bob Veale is remembered not only as a remarkable pitcher but also as a great man whose presence will be missed. As Bob Nutting aptly put it, "He was a great man who will be missed."
Bob Veale's impact on the game of baseball and his enduring legacy will remain an inspiration for future generations, showcasing the power of perseverance, passion, and exceptional talent on the sports field.