Veteran Pitcher Wilbur Wood Passes Away at 84
Wilbur Wood, the iconic knuckleball pitcher who dominated on the mound for nearly two decades, has left an indelible mark on baseball history. At just 84, his passing is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic prowess in today's game.
Wood's legacy as a workhorse was cemented by his remarkable durability, which earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable pitchers of his generation. In 1972, he set an MLB record for most innings pitched with 376 2/3, a feat that likely won't be seen again due to the modern era's emphasis on bullpen specialist roles and high-pitched fastballs.
But Wood's impact went beyond mere statistics. His innovative use of the knuckleball, which he learned from his father, was an instant sensation in the late 1960s and 1970s. The pitch's unpredictable movement and velocity made it nearly unhittable at times, earning him three consecutive All-Star appearances.
Wood's transition from bullpen to rotation specialist was a masterclass in adaptability, one that allowed him to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of baseball. His on-field accomplishments – including a career record of 164-156 with a 3.24 ERA – are a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As news of Wood's passing spreads, fans and fellow players alike will remember him for his unwavering commitment to the craft and his status as one of the most memorable knuckleballers in baseball history.
Wilbur Wood, the iconic knuckleball pitcher who dominated on the mound for nearly two decades, has left an indelible mark on baseball history. At just 84, his passing is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic prowess in today's game.
Wood's legacy as a workhorse was cemented by his remarkable durability, which earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable pitchers of his generation. In 1972, he set an MLB record for most innings pitched with 376 2/3, a feat that likely won't be seen again due to the modern era's emphasis on bullpen specialist roles and high-pitched fastballs.
But Wood's impact went beyond mere statistics. His innovative use of the knuckleball, which he learned from his father, was an instant sensation in the late 1960s and 1970s. The pitch's unpredictable movement and velocity made it nearly unhittable at times, earning him three consecutive All-Star appearances.
Wood's transition from bullpen to rotation specialist was a masterclass in adaptability, one that allowed him to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of baseball. His on-field accomplishments – including a career record of 164-156 with a 3.24 ERA – are a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As news of Wood's passing spreads, fans and fellow players alike will remember him for his unwavering commitment to the craft and his status as one of the most memorable knuckleballers in baseball history.
. Still can't believe he was only 84 when he kicked the bucket. The man was a true original, throwing that crazy knuckleball for decades 
. His record's not gonna be broken anytime soon 
. What's with all these bullpen specialists nowadays? Can't we just have one guy who can pitch like Wilbur Wood, but stay healthy for more than 10 years? 
he was literally a legend on the mound with that knuckleball of his 
no way he set an MLB record for most innings pitched back in 72 
and still managed to be one of the most reliable pitchers of his gen 
but its crazy how times have changed now with all these bullpen specialists 
think wood would've been lost in that era 
. Growing up, my dad always told me about him being a legend on the mound. He was one of those guys who just made you want to watch baseball more 
. His story is actually kinda inspiring - from pitching for like 20 years with barely any injuries to now he's no longer with us, it's crazy how fast time flies 
. What I love most about his legacy is that he adapted and innovated instead of just sticking to what everyone else was doing 
.
he was so reliable on the mound it's crazy to think about how hard he must've thrown over the years, 376 2/3 innings is insane, i dont know how anyone can do that nowadays they all seem to be more focused on being closers and stuff. but wilbur wood's knuckleball was a game changer, it was like nothing anyone had ever seen before, and he could throw it for miles 
his legacy is def going to live on though, i mean who can forget the guy who dominated in the 70s?
. I'm still amazed by that record he set back in '72, it's crazy how long ago that was 
. The knuckleball was just weird and wonderful, all those unpredictable bounces 
. It's a shame we won't see anyone like him again, but at the same time, it's awesome how he adapted and thrived in his career 
.
.
. And let's not forget those three consecutive All-Star appearances... 
.
. I mean, who needs retirement when you can still dominate on the mound at that age? 
️.
. RIP, Wilbur 