Rest in Peace - Bob Feller

Bob Feller (aka Rapid Robert) the Cleveland Indians greatest pitcher died this evening. Feller had been in declining health for months and entered hospice last week so his passing is not too surprising. Sad to hear nonetheless. Feller was one of the last ties to the last World Championship Indians team of 1948. While best known for his performance as a Hall of Fame baseball player, Feller was proudest of his service in the Navy during World War II. The day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor Feller enlisted in the Navy and served until hostilities ended almost four years later. Feller attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer and served in combat on the battleship Alabama. He lost four seasons in the middle of his prime to the war. His career total of 266 wins is impressive on its own. However, when you consider what he likely would have accomplished in the four lost years you get a better sense of his domination of his era. The years before WWII he won 24, 27 and 25 games and then won 26 and 20 in 1946 & 47. Even a conservative guess at what Feller might have done in the missing years would have gotten him well over 300 career wins.

Rest in Peace, Bob and thanks for your service.