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Bill Virdon

Bill Virdon Counts His Blessings

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In 1955, one humble ROY

Why did I write to Bill Virdon? I wanted to see if he really won Rookie of the Year in 1955.

Of course, he did. However, he’s always more eager to tell reporters about his pride in
being part of the 1960 World Championship. He wants to talk about his teams. His teammates.

Not himself.

Thankfully, the bespectacled Gold Glover fielded my three questions like an All-Star. His letter includes:

“1955 was a dream come true. The Cardinals gave me a chance and I was fortunate in many ways. I never really thought about it during the year.”


Not surprisingly, Virdon sidestepped my inquiry about the actual award, on-field ceremonies or a reward in the next year’s contract.

Looking closely at his season totals, I learned that Virdon’s last season playing wasn’t 1965. He added:

“In 1968, I was activated from the coaching staff and played in one game. Three at bats. Two strikeouts and a home run in the ninth to tie the score. It was a thrill, but we lost in the tenth.”


Lastly, I’ve always wanted to ask a former manager: WHY? I quoted Bobby Bragan’s assessment of the job, “Hired to be fired.” Virdon responded:

“It was enjoyable if you won. I always thought we had a chance to get to the series.

I still enjoy the game. I was blessed to be able to stay in the game so many years.”

Now Pitching, Pirate Infielder Ed O’Brien?

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A position player pitching? You mean blowout game, mop-up duty?

Don’t tell that to Ed O’Brien.

I confess, I wanted to ask about that famous 1954 Topps card, picturing the O’Brien twins. Forget the Olsen twins. Skip those sisters. I’d rather see Ed and John turn a double play.

However, www.Retrosheet.org amazed me again. Going to “top performances” I found results from September 14, 1957, a day in which the Cubs ate humble pie. One infielder took the mound and confounded Chicago.

Ed O’Brien replied in magnificent calligraphy-like penmanship:

“With Dick Groat at shortstop and Bill Virdon in center field, the Pirates were using me as a utility player. In all, I played seven positions. Because I had a strong arm, they decided to see if I could pitch. At Columbus AAA I had 3 or 4 pitching appearances while still playing in the field. Dan Murtaugh started me against the Cubs in Wrigley Field. I won, 3-1, complete game, throwing fastballs and hard sliders.

Both of us on the Topps 1954 card was their (the company’s) idea. They sent copies to all those signed with them. Everyone received the same compensation. Nothing like today’s figures.”

I had asked if Topps paid both brothers an individual fee, even if they shared one card…

Lastly, I wanted to know about a fellow Washingtonian and famous Pirates fan.

“Bing Crosby came to Seattle on three occasions to talk to us (John and I) about signing with the Pirates. He was a minority owner. He would attend spring training every year and became a lifetime friend.”