Bob Veale, a towering presence on the mound and a beloved figure in the annals of Major League Baseball, left an enduring legacy as both a player and a mentor. Veale, who passed away at 89, was renowned for his tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he spent the majority of his illustrious 13-year career.
Career Spotlight: A Dominant Force
Throughout the 1960s, Bob Veale emerged as one of the premier left-handed pitchers in the league. He was celebrated not only for a formidable fastball that mesmerized batters but also for his ability to deliver when it mattered most. His career statistics reflect his dual role as both a strikeout artist and a workhorse on the field.
In 1964, Veale emphatically established his presence by leading the majors in strikeouts. This achievement brought him significant recognition and highlighted his power pitching prowess. Yet, like many hard throwers of his era, he often struggled with control, leading the National League in walks issued on four occasions. Nevertheless, Veale finished his career with a respectable 3.07 ERA, and he accrued an estimated 24.7 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference.
His 1.98 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 397 appearances demonstrates both the dominance and the challenges he faced on the mound. Despite these ebbs and flows, Veale’s skills made him an invaluable asset to any team he pitched for, most notably, the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Pirates' Pillar and World Series Hero
Veale's time with the Pirates was marked by crucial contributions, particularly during the team’s glory years in the early 1970s. He played a pivotal role in propelling the Pirates to back-to-back division titles, a testament to his ability to perform under pressure. Perhaps his most defining moment came during the team's 1971 World Series campaign.
Despite the high stakes and intense competition, Veale played a key role throughout the series. He notably pitched in relief during a tough Game 2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his versatility and team-first mentality. Although that particular game didn’t end in victory for the Pirates, the team would ultimately triumph, with Veale's contributions pivotal in securing the championship.
Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting reflected on Veale's impact, 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."
Legacy Beyond the Mound
Veale’s influence in baseball extended beyond his playing years. He furthered his connection to the game as a scout and coach, sharing the wealth of knowledge and experience accrued over decades. His love for the sport dated back to his early days in baseball, where he started as a bat boy and batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and contributions, Veale was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, cementing his place among the greats of baseball. His back-to-back All-Star Game appearances in 1965 and 1966 stand as a testament to his performance and reputation among his peers.
Bob Nutting’s heartfelt words "He was a great man who will be missed" resonate with those who had the privilege of witnessing Veale’s career and benefitting from his mentorship.
Bob Veale’s storied career and contributions to the Pittsburgh Pirates reflect a life filled with passion for baseball. His legacy as a player who combined skill, power, and determination will undoubtedly resonate among fans and players alike for generations to come. The baseball community mourns the loss of a great man, celebrating his life and contributions both on and off the field. Bob Veale’s remarkable journey from the Negro Leagues to World Series champion ensures that his memory will endure in the annals of baseball history.