Jesse Haines, known for his knuckleball and curveball, was a right-handed pitcher who spent the majority of his Major League Baseball career with the St. Louis Cardinals. Born on July 22, 1893, in Clayton, Ohio, Haines began his professional baseball journey in the minor leagues before making his way to the majors. His early career saw him playing for teams like the Dayton Veterans and the Kansas City Blues, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of major league scouts.

Haines made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds but found his true home with the St. Louis Cardinals, joining them in 1920. Over the years, he became a reliable and durable pitcher for the Cardinals, contributing significantly to the team's success during the 1920s and 1930s. His pitching style, characterized by a deceptive knuckleball, made him a challenging opponent for batters.

One of the highlights of Haines' career was his performance in the 1926 World Series. In Game 7 against the New York Yankees, he pitched a complete game, leading the Cardinals to their first-ever World Series championship. This victory was particularly memorable as it marked the beginning of the Cardinals' emergence as a powerhouse in baseball.

Throughout his career, Haines was known for his consistency and ability to pitch effectively in crucial games. He achieved a career milestone by pitching a no-hitter against the Boston Braves on July 17, 1924, further cementing his reputation as a skilled pitcher. His ability to perform under pressure was evident in his postseason appearances, where he maintained a commendable record.

Haines' tenure with the Cardinals saw him winning three World Series titles, in 1926, 1931, and 1934. His role in these championship teams was instrumental, as he provided veteran leadership and stability to the pitching staff. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and the natural decline that comes with age, Haines remained a valuable asset to the Cardinals until his retirement.

In recognition of his achievements and contributions to the game, Jesse Haines was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1970. His legacy as a pitcher who excelled in both regular season and postseason play endures, and he is remembered as one of the stalwarts of the St. Louis Cardinals during a transformative era for the team.

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