The Early Careers of Phil and Joe Niekro: A Tale of Two Knuckleballers
The Niekro brothers, Phil and Joe, are legendary names in the annals of baseball history. Known for their mastery of the knuckleball, they carved out remarkable careers in Major League Baseball. While Phil's 1968 season and Joe's 1969 season stand out as pivotal moments in their early careers, their journeys to greatness were as unique as the pitch they perfected. Phil Niekro: The 1968 Season Phil Niekro, affectionately nicknamed "Knucksie," had already begun to make waves in the MLB by 1968. Playing for the Atlanta Braves, Phil showcased his dominance on the mound with his signature knuckleball—a pitch that baffled batters and catchers alike. The 1968 season was a breakout year for Phil, as he led the National League with an impressive 2.59 ERA. His ability to control the unpredictable knuckleball made him a formidable opponent and cemented his reputation as one of the league's premier pitchers. Phil's performance in 1968 was a testament to his resilience a...