What Pitcher Was Known as the Wild Thing?
The “Wild Thing” has become a legendary figure in baseball history, thanks to his wild and crazy antics on the mound. He was a pitcher known for his enthusiasm, his wild hair, and his wild arm. The Wild Thing was none other than the legendary Mitch Williams.
Early Life
Mitch Williams was born on December 13th, 1964 in Santa Ana, California. Williams grew up in a baseball-loving family, and quickly developed a love for the game from a young age. His father was a Little League coach, and his mother and sister also played softball.
Williams was a talented player from the start and was noticed by scouts in high school. He was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the sixth round of the 1982 Major League Baseball amateur draft.
Rise to Fame
Williams quickly moved up the ranks in the Rangers organization, and made his major-league debut in 1986. He quickly made a name for himself with his wild and enthusiastic pitching style. He was known for his wild hair, his unorthodox delivery, and his tendency to throw wild pitches.
Williams was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1991 and he quickly became a fan favorite. He was the closer for the Phillies, and had a stellar season in 1993, finishing with 43 saves and an ERA of 2.34. His season culminated in a World Series appearance, where he earned the nickname “Wild Thing” after his wild pitching style.
Nickname
The nickname “Wild Thing” was given to Williams after his wild pitching style. His wild delivery, unorthodox style, and tendency to throw wild pitches made him an ideal candidate for the nickname. The nickname was quickly picked up by fans, and Williams embraced it as his own.
Career
Williams had a successful career in Major League Baseball, playing for the Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and San Diego Padres. He was a two-time All-Star and finished his career with 192 saves and an ERA of 3.65.
Legacy
Williams’ wild and enthusiastic style of pitching made him a fan favorite, and his nickname “Wild Thing” remains one of the most iconic nicknames in baseball history. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Phillies Wall of Fame in 2014.
Post-Retirement
After retiring from baseball, Williams became a coach and mentor to young players. He coached in the minor leagues and served as an analyst for MLB Network. He also wrote a book, Wild Thing: The Tales of a Pitchin’ Fool, which detailed his wild and crazy career in baseball.
Personal Life
Williams is married to his wife, Laurie, and they have three children together. He is an avid hunter and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Pop Culture
Williams’ nickname, “Wild Thing,” has been referenced in popular culture numerous times. The song “Wild Thing” by the Troggs was used in the 1989 movie Major League, which starred Charlie Sheen as a pitcher based off of Williams. Williams himself even made a cameo in the movie.
Trivia
- Williams had a pet alligator when he was with the Texas Rangers.
- He was the last pitcher to wear the number 99 in the Major Leagues.
- He is the only pitcher in MLB history to have more walks than strikeouts in a season.
Conclusion
Mitch Williams was a legendary pitcher in Major League Baseball, known for his wild and enthusiastic style of pitching. He was the closer for the Philadelphia Phillies in the early 1990s, and earned the nickname “Wild Thing” due to his wild delivery and tendency to throw wild pitches. His legacy as the Wild Thing will live on in baseball history, and his nickname will always be remembered.