Harvey Haddix, known affectionately as "The Kitten," was born on September 18, 1925, in Medway, Ohio. His passion for baseball was ignited at a young age, and he quickly excelled in the sport. Haddix played on various amateur teams before being signed by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1947.
Haddix made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1952. He showed great promise as a pitcher, quickly becoming a key player for the team. Haddix's talent caught the attention of the baseball world, and it wasn't long before he became a household name.
In 1959, Haddix was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he truly made a name for himself. During his time with the Pirates, he earned the nickname "The Kitten" for his fierce competitiveness on the mound. Haddix was a crucial part of the team's success, leading them to victory in the 1960 World Series.
Throughout his career, Haddix set numerous records and achieved several milestones. In a memorable game against the Milwaukee Braves in May 1959, he set a major league record by retiring 36 consecutive batters in a single game. This remarkable feat solidified Haddix's reputation as one of the greatest pitchers of his time.
Off the field, Haddix was a devoted family man. He had three children, Teri, Ann, and Harvey, who were his pride and joy. Despite his demanding career, Haddix always made time for his family and cherished the moments he spent with them.
Harvey Haddix's legacy lives on in the hearts of baseball fans everywhere. His impressive accomplishments on the field, including three consecutive All-Star appearances and three consecutive Gold Glove Awards, cemented his status as a baseball legend. Haddix's influence extended beyond his playing days, inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness.
Harvey Haddix will always be remembered as a true icon of the sport, a player whose talent and passion for the game left an indelible mark on baseball history.
Related links