Bob Tewksbury's journey in Major League Baseball is characterized by his precision and control on the mound. Born on November 30, 1960, in Concord, New Hampshire, Tewksbury attended Merrimack Valley High School and later Saint Leo University in Florida. His professional career began when he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 19th round of the 1981 MLB Draft.
Tewksbury made his MLB debut with the Yankees in 1986. His time in New York was brief, as he was traded to the Chicago Cubs in 1987. However, it was with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played from 1989 to 1994, that Tewksbury truly found his stride. Known for his exceptional control and ability to outthink hitters, he became a reliable starter for the Cardinals. In 1992, he achieved a career highlight by being selected for the All-Star Game, a testament to his skill and consistency on the mound.
During his tenure with the Cardinals, Tewksbury developed a reputation for his low walk rate, often leading the league in fewest walks per nine innings. His approach to pitching relied heavily on finesse rather than power, utilizing a variety of pitches to keep batters off balance. This strategy proved effective, as evidenced by his impressive 16-5 record and a 2.16 ERA in 1992, which placed him third in the National League Cy Young Award voting that year.
After his successful stint with the Cardinals, Tewksbury signed with the Texas Rangers in 1995. His time in Texas was short-lived, and he moved on to the San Diego Padres in 1996. With the Padres, he continued to demonstrate his control and veteran presence on the mound. In 1997, Tewksbury joined the Minnesota Twins, where he played for two seasons before retiring from professional baseball in 1998.
Throughout his career, Tewksbury was known for his cerebral approach to the game. He often used a unique pitch called the "eephus," a high-arcing, slow pitch that caught many hitters off guard. This pitch became a signature part of his repertoire and highlighted his ability to adapt and innovate on the field.
After retiring as a player, Tewksbury remained involved in baseball, transitioning into roles that included coaching and mental skills training. He worked with the Boston Red Sox as a mental skills coach, helping players develop the psychological aspects of their game. His post-playing career also included authoring a book, "Ninety Percent Mental," which delves into the mental challenges faced by athletes.
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