On this day, August 14, 1954, Mark Fidrych was born.

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Last edited Tue Aug 15, 2023, 01:28 AM - Edit history (1)

Sun Aug 14, 2022: On this day, August 14, 1954, Mark Fidrych was born.

Mark Fidrych


Born: August 14, 1954; Worcester, Massachusetts
Died: April 13, 2009 (aged 54); Northborough, Massachusetts
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
MLB debut: April 20, 1976, for the Detroit Tigers
Last MLB appearance: October 1, 1980, for the Detroit Tigers

Mark Steven Fidrych (/ˈfɪdrɪtʃ/ FID-rich; August 14, 1954 – April 13, 2009), nicknamed "The Bird", was an American Major League Baseball (MLB) baseball pitcher. He pitched his entire career for the Detroit Tigers (1976–1980).

Known for his quirky antics on the mound, Fidrych led the major leagues with a 2.34 ERA in 1976, won the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year award, and finished with a 19–9 record. Shortly thereafter, however, injuries derailed his career, which ended after just five seasons in the major leagues.

{snip}

[multigraincracker]

1. I'll never forget his major league debut.

I had thought I was just going to sit in front of the tv and watch, just another baseball game.

[MiHale]

2. He was a fun pitcher always entertaining...

How’s it going, mgc?

[multigraincracker]

3. He sparked a lot of interest in the game.

Trying to survive in a crazy world. Great to have this place to find like minded folks.

[shrike3]

4. Me, too. So much fun. I remember him running around and congratulating everyone including

the ground crew. Nice memory.

[LisaM]

5. I got to see him pitch once.

I think it was Opening Day 1977. He was such a fan favorite.