Clyde King, a figure in the world of baseball, began his journey in the sport as a pitcher. Born in Goldsboro, North Carolina, King entered Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1944. His debut marked the start of a career that would span several decades, both on the field and in various managerial and executive roles.

During his time as a player, King was known for his pitching skills. He played for the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1944 to 1945 and again from 1947 to 1948. His career as a player was interrupted by military service during World War II, a common occurrence for many athletes of his generation. After his stint with the Dodgers, King went on to play for the Cincinnati Reds from 1949 to 1950. His playing career concluded with the Seattle Rainiers, a minor league team, in 1953.

Transitioning from player to coach, King found a new path in baseball. He served as a pitching coach for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates. His understanding of the game and ability to mentor young pitchers made him a valuable asset to these organizations.

King's career took another turn when he moved into managerial roles. He managed the San Francisco Giants in 1969 and later took the helm of the Atlanta Braves in 1974 and 1975. His managerial career continued with the New York Yankees, where he served as manager in 1982. Although his time as a manager was not marked by long tenures, his leadership was respected by players and colleagues alike.

Beyond managing, King also held executive positions within baseball organizations. He worked as a special advisor and assistant to the general manager for the New York Yankees, contributing to the team's strategic decisions. His experience and knowledge of the game were assets in these roles, allowing him to influence the direction of the teams he worked with.

Throughout his career, Clyde King was involved in various aspects of baseball, from playing and coaching to managing and executive roles.