Robert Thomas "Bob" Purkey (born July 14, 1929 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is a former knuckleball specialist starting pitcher in Major League Baseball. From 1954 through 1966, Purkey played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1954-57, 1966), Cincinnati Reds (1958-64) and St. Louis Cardinals (1965). He batted and threw right handed. In 1974 was elected to the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame.

In a 13-season career, Purkey posted a 129-115 record with 793 strikeouts and a 3.79 ERA in 2114.2 innings pitched.

Best season

• 1962: 23-5 and led NL in winning percentage (.821), 2.81 ERA, Player of the Month for May

Highlights

• Three-time National League All-Star (1958, 1961-62).
• Twice on MVP ballot (1958, 1962).
• Finished third in the 1962 Cy Young Award vote, tied with Billy Pierce (AL), and behind Don Drysdale and Jack Sanford.

References

• Baseball Library
• Baseball Reference

1958 National League All-Stars | 1961 National League All-Stars | 1962 National League All-Stars | Cincinnati Reds players | Pittsburgh Pirates players | St. Louis Cardinals players | Major league pitchers | People from Pennsylvania | Major league players from Pennsylvania | 1929 births | Living people