Celebrating the Legacy of Bob Veale: A Pillar of the Pittsburgh Pirates
Bob Veale, whose formidable presence on the mound once made him one of the most feared left-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball, left us with memories of a storied career that spanned thirteen unforgettable seasons. Known for his towering stature and blistering fastball, Veale left an indelible mark on the game, particularly during his years with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team with which he shared his most celebrated moments.
Veale's reign as a strikeout king reached its zenith in 1964 when he led the majors in strikeouts, a testament to his overpowering style. His career, characterized by a 3.07 ERA, also saw its fair share of challenges. Among the league's leaders in walks on four separate occasions, Veale's aggressive pitching style was both a boon and a bane—a duality that shaped his reputation as a resilient competitor on the diamond.
His contributions to the Pirates were pivotal in the team's success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. As a cornerstone of the pitching staff, Veale played a critical role in securing back-to-back division titles, a testament to his impact on the field. His role in the Pirates' 1971 World Series victory further cemented his legacy, despite the team's Game 2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles where he pitched in relief. He was an integral part of a team that captured the hearts of Pittsburgh and earned a place in the annals of baseball history.
Veale's prowess wasn't confined to regular seasons alone. His back-to-back All-Star appearances in 1965 and 1966 underscored his status among the elite in the league. Over 397 appearances, he maintained a 1.98 strikeout-to-walk ratio, consistently challenging batters and showcasing his skill and tenacity on the mound.
Beyond the statistics, Bob Veale's impact was also measured by the respect and admiration he garnered from peers and fans alike. Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting remarked, "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." Such tributes reflect the high regard in which Veale was held within the baseball community.
Veale's journey in the sport began with humble roots, working as a bat boy and batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues. This early exposure to the game nurtured his love for baseball, leading to a professional career that would see him inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, a fitting recognition of his contributions and achievements.
Even after his playing days ended, Veale remained deeply connected to the sport, transitioning into roles as a scout and coach. His continued involvement in baseball speaks volumes about his passion for the game and his commitment to nurturing future generations of players.
Bob Veale's legacy is also enshrined in numbers—the 24.7 Wins Above Replacement he contributed mainly during his time on the mound for Pittsburgh. Yet, beyond the calculable accomplishments, his life and career embodied the spirit of the game he loved. To many, he was not just an athlete, but a great man, lauded by Nutting as "a great man who will be missed."
As we reflect on the passing of Bob Veale at the age of 89, we remember a remarkable athlete whose career transcended the baseball field. His story is one of perseverance, excellence, and a lifelong dedication to baseball. For fans of America's pastime, Veale will always be remembered as a pillar of the Pittsburgh Pirates and a true legend in Major League Baseball.