Rube Waddell: Celebrated Pitcher of the Philadelphia Athletics
The page from the 1961 Big Time Baseball sports publication focuses on George Edward "Rube" Waddell, a legendary left-handed pitcher renowned for his eccentric personality and remarkable talent. Known as "Mack's Mad Moundsman," Waddell captivated fans in the early 20th century with both his pitching skills and unpredictable behavior. The page describes how "Rube fan 'em out" was a common slogan painted on walls, acknowledging Waddell’s ability to strike out batters consistently. Despite his prowess, Waddell's unpredictability often left teams frustrated. Stories abound of his sudden absences, whether due to fishing, joining a parade, or chasing fire engines. His antics necessitated constant management, and while many struggled with his behavior, Connie Mack, a successful manager of the Philadelphia Athletics, seemed adept at handling him.