Dizzy Dean was a professional baseball player who is remembered as one of the greatest and most colorful stars in the history of the game. He was born Jay Hanna Dean in Lucas, Arkansas, and was given the nickname "Dizzy" by a childhood friend. He was a pitcher in the major leagues for 13 years, playing for the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and St. Louis Browns.

Dean was a pioneer of the power pitcher, combining a fastball with a big-breaking curveball that he called a "daffy" or "fadeaway" pitch. His fastball was so fast that it was said to "hum like a bee," and he once boasted that he could "throw a pea through a cannon." Dean also had a famous competitive streak, and was known for playing the game with a great deal of gusto and enthusiasm.

In 1934, Dean had one of the greatest seasons in baseball history, leading the National League in wins, ERA, strikeouts, shutouts, and complete games. He was the only pitcher to win 30 games in a single season between 1920 and 1968. He was also the last National League pitcher to win 30 games in one season.

Dean was also one of the most popular players in baseball. He was known for his wit and humor, and his famous phrase "It ain't braggin' if you can back it up." He also regularly appeared on radio shows, and in films and advertisements.

Dean's career ended in 1947 due to arm injuries. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1953. He is remembered as one of the greatest pitchers of all time, and one of the most memorable characters in the game.

⚾