Remembering Bob Veale: A Pittsburgh Pirates Legend
The baseball world mourns the loss of Bob Veale, a key figure in the Pittsburgh pirates’ 1971 World Series victory. Veale, a dominant left-handed pitcher, passed away peacefully at his Birmingham, Alabama home on January 8, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 89.
Veale’s career was marked by exceptional talent and consistency. He earned All-Star honors in both 1965 and 1966, cementing his place among the league’s elite. his 1964 season was particularly noteworthy, as he led the National League with an impressive 250 strikeouts, surpassing even the legendary Bob Gibson. Throughout the 1960s, Veale was a force to be reckoned with, becoming one of only eleven left-handed pitchers to achieve 100 victories during that decade.
“Bob was an integral part of the Pirates’ success,” stated Pittsburgh Pirates president Bob Nutting. “He helped us secure back-to-back division titles and ultimately, the 1971 World Series championship. His dominance on the mound during his remarkable career, largely spent with the pirates, made him a true icon. He will be deeply missed.”
Veale’s legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics.He was a dedicated teammate and a respected figure in the baseball community. His contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Veale’s professional baseball journey began with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1962, where he spent a decade honing his skills and establishing himself as a formidable force.He later played for the Boston Red Sox from 1972 to 1974, further solidifying his reputation as a talented pitcher.A Legacy of Accomplishments
Veale’s career was adorned with numerous accolades, including:
Two-time All-Star (1965, 1966)
World Series Champion (1971)
* National League Strikeout Leader (1964)
His impact on the game is undeniable, and his memory will forever be cherished by baseball fans worldwide.
Remembering a Titan: Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson Reflects on the Passing of Bob Veale
This week,the baseball world said goodbye to a true legend. Bob Veale, a key member of the 1971 World Series champion Pittsburgh Pirates, passed away at the age of 89.To discuss Veale’s legacy and impact on the game, we’re honored to be joined by Baseball Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson, who faced Veale during his own storied career.
Moderator: Reggie, thanks for joining us. Bob Veale was known for his dominating presence on the mound. What was it like facing him as a batter?
Reggie jackson: Bob Veale had this electric fastball, and his slider could break your bat. Honestly, stepping into the batter’s box against him was intimidating. He just had this intensity,this aura about him that commanded respect.There wasn’t a hitter in the league who looked forward to facing him.
Moderator: He led the National League in strikeouts in 1964. Did you notice any specific strategies he used to get batters out?
Reggie Jackson: Veale was a master of setting up hitters. He’d start with his fastball, really jamming you inside, then work in that devastating slider. It kept you off balance, guessing constantly. He was a classic power pitcher, relied on his stuff more than anything else.
Moderator: You played in an era dominated by incredible pitchers. Where would you rank Veale among them?
Reggie Jackson: Bob Veale definitely belonged in that conversation.You had your Gibsons, Seavers, and Marichals – guys who defined an era. Veale was right there with them. He may not have always gotten the same recognition, but he had the talent, the grit, the will to compete with any of them.
Moderator: Beyond those stats and accolades, what will you remember most about Bob Veale?
Reggie Jackson: I remember him as a true competitor.He played hard, always respected the game, and was a true gentleman off the field. He was the kind of player you loved to compete against, as you knew you were facing the best.
Moderator: now, many fans, perhaps due to his playing career being pre-internet explosion era, may not be as familiar with Bob Veale. What message would you give to them about his legacy?
Reggie Jackson: I’d tell them to look up his career stats, read about his contributions to the 1971 World Series. This was a true baseball talent,a force to be reckoned with on the mound. He was a cornerstone of that Pirates regime, and his name deserves to be mentioned among the greats.
Moderator: Thank you, Reggie, for sharing your insights and memories of Bob Veale. It’s clear his impact transcended baseball.
We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on Bob Veale’s legacy in the comments below. What are your memories of him as a player? How do you think his accomplishments should be remembered?
Let’s keep this conversation going.
