Higbe (118-101 career record) holds a 3.69 ERA while allowing 8.1 hits per nine innings. He has a strikeout to walk ratio of 0.99 and he has gone up against 8,472 batters thus far in his career. So far in his career, Higbe has given up 1,763 base knocks while he has earned 971 punch outs in 1,952 innings. He has given up 800 earned runs while earning a WHIP of 1.405 and having a FIP of 3.6.
Kirby Higbe’s name may not resonate as loudly as some of his contemporaries, but his legacy as a Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher remains significant. Known for his fiery personality and formidable fastball, Higbe’s career spanned over a decade, and he played a crucial role in shaping the baseball landscape during his time. In this article, we’ll explore Higbe’s journey through the MLB, his accomplishments, and the controversies that marked his career.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on April 8, 1915, in Columbia, South Carolina, Walter Kirby Higbe Jr. grew up with a passion for baseball. His talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly gained attention for his pitching skills. Higbe’s early career saw him playing for various minor league teams, where he honed his craft and caught the eye of major league scouts.
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In 1937, Higbe made his MLB debut with the Chicago Cubs. Although his time with the Cubs was brief, it provided him with the exposure and experience he needed to excel at the highest level of baseball.
Rise to Prominence
Higbe’s career took a significant turn when he joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1940. It was with the Phillies that Higbe truly began to make a name for himself. Over the next few seasons, he established himself as one of the most promising pitchers in the league. His fastball was particularly feared by batters, and he quickly became known for his aggressive style on the mound.
The pinnacle of Higbe’s career came in 1941 when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers. That year, he led the National League in wins with 22 victories and was named an All-Star. Higbe’s performance was instrumental in helping the Dodgers secure the National League pennant, although they ultimately lost to the New York Yankees in the World Series.
Kirby Higbe and Jackie Robinson
One of the most notable aspects of Higbe’s career was his connection to Jackie Robinson, who broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947. Higbe was among a group of players who initially opposed Robinson’s inclusion on the Dodgers, citing Robinson’s race as the reason. This stance was not uncommon at the time, reflecting the prevalent attitudes and racial tensions in America.
However, Higbe’s opposition to Robinson’s integration into the MLB was a significant controversy in his career. The Dodgers traded Higbe to the Pittsburgh Pirates in May 1947, just weeks after Robinson’s debut. While Higbe later expressed regret for his initial opposition, this episode remains a notable part of his legacy.
Career Achievements
Despite the controversy, Higbe’s career was marked by several achievements. He was a two-time All-Star and consistently ranked among the league’s top pitchers in various statistical categories. Over his MLB career, Higbe amassed a win-loss record of 118-101, with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.69 and 971 strikeouts.
Higbe was known for his durability and ability to pitch deep into games, often completing what he started. This reliability made him a valuable asset to every team he played for during his career.
Later Career and Retirement
After his stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Higbe played for the New York Giants and St. Louis Browns before retiring from MLB in 1950. Post-retirement, Higbe returned to the minor leagues as a player-manager, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players.
Higbe’s post-baseball life saw him working in various roles, including a stint as a security guard at a casino in Las Vegas. Despite the ups and downs of his career, Higbe remained connected to the sport and often reflected on his time in the majors.
Legacy and Impact
Kirby Higbe’s career in MLB was a mixture of triumphs and controversies. While his initial stance on Jackie Robinson’s integration into baseball cast a shadow over his legacy, his achievements on the mound are undeniable. Higbe’s fiery spirit and competitive nature made him a standout pitcher of his era.
His story serves as a reminder of the complex history of baseball, reflecting both the challenges and progress the sport has seen over the years. Higbe’s journey through MLB offers valuable lessons about resilience, growth, and the importance of embracing change.
Conclusion
Kirby Higbe’s career as an MLB pitcher is a testament to his skill and determination. While controversies marked his time in the league, his contributions to the sport remain significant. As we reflect on Higbe’s legacy, it’s essential to recognize both his achievements and the broader context of his career. In doing so, we gain a deeper understanding of baseball’s rich and complicated history.