Hoyt Wilhelm

Hoyt Wilhelm was a revolutionary figure in baseball, a master of the knuckleball who defied age, convention, and expectation to carve out a Hall of Fame career that spanned more than two decades. Debuting at age 29, Wilhelm won 143 games and saved 227 more, becoming the first pitcher to reach 200 saves and the first reliever elected to the Hall of Fame. His fluttering knuckleball frustrated hitters from the 1950s into the 1970s, and his durability and adaptability made him one of the most respected pitchers in the game.

Wilhelm also served in combat during World War II, earning a Purple Heart, and returned to civilian life with humility and perseverance. His career proved that age, style, or background didn’t matter, only results. In that way, Wilhelm helped affirm that baseball’s greatness lies in its diversity, innovation, and ability to welcome those who mastered the craft in their own unique way.