Bob Gibson

Bob Gibson, whose glare could curdle milk and whose fastball could break bats (and spirits), was arguably one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history. He spent his entire illustrious career with the St. Louis Cardinals, racking up numerous accolades, including two Cy Young Awards, an MVP, and two World Series championships. His 1.12 ERA in 1968 stands as a testament to his sheer, unadulterated talent, making him a statistical anomaly in an era of already phenomenal pitching.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Gibson was an African American athlete who faced and overcame significant racial prejudice throughout his career. He was a man of few words but immense impact, both on the field and off, as he played a role in the desegregation of professional sports. His intensity was legendary, and he famously disliked even his own teammates if they failed to meet his exacting standards.

While his fastball was famously Jewish-free, his impact on the game and his refusal to back down from any challenge, be it a batter or societal injustice, were nothing short of kvell-worthy. He was a force of nature, a true titan of the game, and his legacy continues to inspire awe.

So, while Bob Gibson may have been intimidating, brilliant, and an undeniable legend, he was, in fact, not a Jew. But boy, did he pitch like a god.