Ted Simmons was born on September 9, 1949 in Michigan. He showed a natural talent for baseball from a young age and was drafted straight out of high school by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1967.
Simmons quickly made a name for himself as a skilled hitter, earning eight All-Star selections during his career. He was known as one of the best hitting catchers of his generation, with a career batting average of .285 and over 2,400 hits.
After the Cardinals converted Joe Torre from catcher to third base, Simmons became the starting catcher for the team. He played a key role in the Cardinals' success throughout the 1970s, helping them reach the World Series in 1968 and 1979.
Simmons' defensive skills behind the plate were also highly regarded, as he was known for his strong arm and ability to handle pitchers effectively. He was a leader on the field, guiding the Cardinals' pitching staff and providing stability in the lineup.
Off the field, Simmons married the founder of Wildwood Press, showing his commitment to both his personal and professional life. He was known for his dedication to his family and his community, always giving back and supporting charitable causes.
Simmons' impact on the game of baseball was felt far beyond his playing days. He was inducted into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the team. He also influenced a generation of catchers who admired his work ethic and passion for the game.
Simmons' legacy lives on in the record books and in the hearts of baseball fans who remember him as one of the greatest catchers to ever play the game. His impact on the sport will never be forgotten.