A converted third baseman, Bucky Walters took the mound later in his career, but once he did, he made up for the lost time. Walters would even win the MVP for his pitching prowess and was one of the rare hurlers who could often be used as a pinch-hitter.
Walters did not just win the MVP in 1939; he won the coveted pitcher’s Triple Crown in the process. He would win twenty games on two more occasions and, with a dazzling sinking fastball, was more than adept at fanning hitters. The prime of his career saw Walters as the Reds’ staff ace, winning games, eating innings, and leading Cincinnati to a World Series title in 1940.
Walter did not reach the 200-win mark, but he did start late and did not receive much run support during his seasons in Philadelphia. He had a very good career and is often brought up as a candidate for the Veterans Committee.
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