A Baseball Legacy: Remembering Bob Veale
Bob Veale, a towering figure both in stature and in legacy, commanded the mound as one of the most formidable left-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball. Passing away at the age of 89, Veale left behind a rich tapestry of accomplishments and memories that paint the picture of a career defined by dominance, resilience, and a deep love for the sport.
Veale’s tenure in the big leagues spanned thirteen impressive seasons, during which he became known for his powerful arm and presence on the field. Chiefly associated with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Veale was not just a player but an integral part of the team’s fabric. Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting fondly reminisced, "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." It was this kind of appreciation and honor that marked Veale's time with the Pirates, a team with which he spent the majority of his career.
Making consecutive All-Star Game appearances in 1965 and 1966, Veale’s talent was undeniable. He led the majors in strikeouts in 1964, showcasing his ability to outclass the opposition with precision and skill. However, the journey was not without challenges. Veale also led the National League in walks issued on four occasions, reflecting the dual nature of his power on the mound—a reminder that even the most dominant players face hurdles.
Veale's career statistics offer a glimpse into his role as a baseball stalwart. With an ERA of 3.07, a 1.98 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 397 appearances, and contributing an estimated 24.7 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference, his performance metrics speak volumes of his impact. Yet, numbers alone cannot fully encapsulate Veale's influence within Major League Baseball.
Beyond the regular season accolades, Veale’s contributions were pivotal during playoff runs. Underpinning the Pirates' path to the 1971 World Series crown, he pitched in relief during a Game 2 loss against the Baltimore Orioles, underscoring his readiness and adaptability in high-stakes situations. Nutting recognized Veale's significance, stating, "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 acknowledgment cements Veale's place not just in the annals of the Pirates but in baseball history.
After hanging up his cleats, Veale continued to nurture his ties to baseball as a scout and coach. His involvement in these roles hints at the passion and knowledge he held for the sport, and his dedication to giving back to the next generation of players. Long before his celebrated MLB days, Veale started as a bat boy and batting practice pitcher for the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues—an early indication of the lifelong journey he would have with baseball.
His contributions to sports were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, a testament to his enduring impact both on and off the field. Bob Nutting summarized the sentiments of many who knew him through the decades: "He was a great man who will be missed."
Bob Veale's legacy extends beyond his pitches and wins. It's found in the indelible mark he left on baseball and the inspiration he provided to future athletes. As we reflect on his life, we remember a man who stood tall on and off the mound, embodying the spirit of baseball and camaraderie across his multifaceted career.