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Joe Niekro, Knuckleballer and Astros Legend

Houston Astros Legend

Joe Niekro, the knuckleballing right-hander who won 221 major league games in 22 seasons, died tragically in 2006 from a brain aneurysm. Niekro was a key member of the Houston Astros' pitching staff during their run to the National League Championship Series in 1980 and 1981. He was inducted into the Astros Hall of Fame in 2000.

Knuckleballer Extraordinaire

Niekro was known for his unique knuckleball, which he threw with a slow, looping motion that made it difficult for hitters to square up. He developed the pitch while playing in the minor leagues, and it became his signature weapon in the majors. Niekro was a master of control, and he could throw his knuckleball for strikes even when he was behind in the count.

Niekro was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the third round of the 1967 draft. He made his major league debut with the Cubs in 1969, and he spent the next four seasons with the team. In 1973, he was traded to the Astros, where he would spend the next 10 seasons. Niekro was a key member of the Astros' pitching staff during their run to the National League Championship Series in 1980 and 1981. He was also a member of the Astros' team that won the National League West division in 1986.

After leaving the Astros, Niekro pitched for the Blue Jays, Yankees, Braves, and Indians. He retired from baseball in 1988. Niekro finished his career with a 221-204 record and a 3.60 ERA. He was inducted into the Astros Hall of Fame in 2000.

Niekro's knuckleball was one of the most effective pitches in baseball history. He was a master of control, and he could throw his knuckleball for strikes even when he was behind in the count. Niekro was a key member of the Astros' pitching staff during their run to the National League Championship Series in 1980 and 1981. He was a beloved figure in Houston, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest Astros of all time.

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