Remembering Bob Veale: A Stalwart of the Pittsburgh Pirates
Bob Veale, a formidable left-handed pitcher known for his time in Major League Baseball (MLB), particularly with the Pittsburgh Pirates, has passed away at the age of 89. Veale's career is distinguished by his dominant performances on the mound and his contributions to the Pirates' successes during the 1960s and early 1970s.
Veale's tenure in the majors spanned thirteen seasons, during which he established himself as one of the most effective pitchers of his era. His remarkable ability to strike out batters was underscored in 1964 when he led all of MLB in strikeouts. However, his aggressive pitching style also led him to lead the National League in walks issued on four occasions, illustrating the dual-edged nature of his power.
With a career ERA of 3.07 and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 1.98 across 397 appearances, Veale's numbers speak volumes about his skill. He was more than just a powerful arm; he was a key player for the Pirates, assisting them in clinching consecutive division titles and securing their 1971 World Series victory. In a vivid testament to his contributions, he pitched in relief during a Game 2 loss against the Baltimore Orioles in that Series.
Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting succinctly captured Veale's importance to the team, stating, "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 prowess on the field was not limited to statistics alone. He made consecutive All-Star Game appearances in 1965 and 1966, cementing his status as one of the elite pitchers of his time. His estimated 24.7 Wins Above Replacement, as recorded by Baseball Reference, further corroborates his impact and value to his team.
Beyond his Major League success, Veale's baseball journey began humbly as a bat boy and batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues. This foundation laid the groundwork for his later achievements and his eventual induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, a fitting accolade for his lifelong dedication to the sport.
Following the conclusion of his playing days, Veale remained committed to baseball, imparting his knowledge and experience as a scout and coach. His continuous involvement in the sport he loved extended the impact of his legacy beyond his time on the mound.
Reflecting on his loss, Bob Nutting added, "He was a great man who will be missed." These sentiments echo the broader baseball community's respect and admiration for Veale, both as a player and as an individual.
The legacy of Bob Veale is one characterized by his dominant left-handed pitching, his perseverance, and his integral role in the Pittsburgh Pirates' history. His contributions to the game have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his memory will be cherished by fans and fellow players for generations to come.