Ralph Branca, a right-handed pitcher, is best remembered for his time with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Born on January 6, 1926, in Mount Vernon, New York, Branca grew up in a large family as the fifteenth of seventeen children. He attended New York University before signing with the Dodgers in 1943. His major league debut came on June 12, 1944, when he was just 18 years old.

Branca's early years in the majors were marked by steady development. By 1947, he had become an integral part of the Dodgers' pitching rotation. That year, he posted a 21-12 record with a 2.67 ERA, helping the Dodgers win the National League pennant. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game, the first of three consecutive selections.

The 1947 season was also notable for Branca's role in supporting Jackie Robinson, who broke Major League Baseball's color barrier that year. Branca was one of the few players who openly welcomed Robinson, demonstrating a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship.

In 1951, Branca found himself at the center of one of baseball's most famous moments. During the National League playoff series against the New York Giants, Branca pitched in the decisive third game. In the bottom of the ninth inning, with the Dodgers leading 4-2, he faced Bobby Thomson. Thomson hit a three-run homer, known as the "Shot Heard 'Round the World," which clinched the pennant for the Giants. This moment became an indelible part of baseball history, and Branca's name was forever linked with it.

Despite the setback, Branca continued to pitch for the Dodgers until 1953. He then had brief stints with the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees. Injuries, particularly to his back, began to take a toll on his performance, and he struggled to regain his earlier form. Branca returned to the Dodgers in 1956 but retired after that season.

Throughout his career, Branca compiled a 88-68 win-loss record with a 3.79 ERA. While his career was overshadowed by the famous home run, he remained a respected figure in the baseball community. After retiring, Branca stayed connected to the sport, working in various capacities, including as a broadcaster and in the front office.

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