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Lew Burdette
Lew Burdette
Lew Burdette
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Selva Lewis Burdette, Jr. (November 22, 1926 – February 6, 2007) was an American right-handed starting pitcher in Major League Baseball who played primarily for the Boston / Milwaukee Braves.[1] The team's top right-hander during its years in Milwaukee, he was the Most Valuable Player of the 1957 World Series, leading the franchise to its first championship in 43 years, and the only title in Milwaukee history.[2] An outstanding control pitcher, his career average of 1.84 walks per nine innings pitched places him behind only Robin Roberts (1.73), Greg Maddux (1.80), Carl Hubbell, (1.82) and Juan Marichal (1.82) among pitchers with at least 3,000 innings since 1920.

Key Information

Major League career

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Born in Nitro, West Virginia, Burdette was signed by the New York Yankees in 1947, and after making two relief appearances for the team in September 1950, he was traded to the Braves in August 1951 for four-time 20-game winner Johnny Sain.[3] Along with left-hander Warren Spahn and right-hander Bob Buhl, he gave the Braves one of the best starting rotations in the majors during the 1950s, winning 15 or more games eight times between 1953 and 1961. Burdette led National League pitchers in earned run average in 1956.[4] When Milwaukee won the 1957 World Series against the Yankees, Burdette became the first pitcher in 37 years to win three complete games in a series, and the first since Christy Mathewson in 1905 to pitch two shutouts (Games 5 and 7), starting Game 7 after Games 1 and 4 starter Warren Spahn was stricken by the flu.[5][6] In the 1958 Series, however, the Yankees defeated Burdette twice in three starts. The final setback came in Game 7, which he again started on only two days' rest, a decision for which manager Fred Haney was widely criticized.[7] In addition to winning 20 games in 1958 and tying Spahn for the National League lead with 21 victories in 1959, Burdette won 19 in 1956 and 1960, 18 in 1961, and 17 in 1957.[1][8]

Burdette was the winning pitcher on May 26, 1959 when the Pittsburgh Pirates' Harvey Haddix pitched a perfect game against the Braves for 12 innings, only to lose in the 13th.[9] Burdette threw a 1–0 shutout, scattering 12 hits. In the ensuing offseason, he joked, "I'm the greatest pitcher that ever lived. The greatest game that was ever pitched in baseball wasn't good enough to beat me, so I've got to be the greatest!"

On August 18 of the following year, facing the minimum 27 batters, Burdette no-hit the Philadelphia Phillies 1–0 at Milwaukee County Stadium.[10] Tony González, the only opposing batter to reach base after being hit by a pitch in the fifth inning, was retired on a double play. Burdette helped himself by scoring the only run of the game; after doubling to lead off the eighth inning, he scored on Bill Bruton's double one batter later. Following up his no-hitter, five days later he pitched his third shutout in a row.[11]

In 1963 Burdette was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals (1963–64), and was later sent to the Chicago Cubs (1964–65) and Phillies (1965).[3] Signing with the California Angels, he pitched exclusively in relief for the team in 1966 and 1967 before retiring.

Career statistics

[edit]

In an 18-year career, Burdette posted a 203–144 record with 1,074 strikeouts and a 3.66 ERA in 3,067.1 innings, compiling 158 complete games and 33 shutouts.[1] In two All-Star games, he allowed only one run in seven innings pitched,[12][13] and in 1956 he topped National League pitchers with a 2.70 earned run average.[1] He was twice a 20-game winner and twice led the National League in shutouts.[1] He also led the National League in wins, earned run average, innings and complete games once each.[1] His totals of wins, games and innings with the Braves ranked behind only Spahn and Kid Nichols in franchise history. He won his only NL Player of the Month award in August 1958 (7–1, 1.89 ERA, 38 SO); teammate pitcher Joey Jay had won the award the month previous. As a hitter, he compiled a .183 batting average (185-for-1,011) with 75 RBI and 12 home runs;[1] his first two home runs came in the same 1957 game, and he later had two more two-homer games.[14][15] He also hit a home run in Game 2 of the 1958 World Series, being the first pitcher to do so since Bucky Walters in 1940.

Pitching style

[edit]

Burdette was a very fidgety pitcher, constantly scratching himself and fussing with his uniform before pitches. Former manager Fred Haney once said, "Burdette would make coffee nervous."[5] Frequently repeated motions such as bringing his fingers to his lips and wiping sweat from his forehead lead to rumors of throwing spitballs.[6][16] After the second game of the 1957 season, Birdie Tebbetts, manager of the Cincinnati Reds, called Burdette a "cheating spitballer," prompting Redlegs' GM Gabe Paul to lodge an official protest with the National League.[17] NL President Warren Giles responded with a statement clarifying that it was okay for a pitcher to moisten his hands as long as he did not transfer the moisture to the baseball and said, "Until someone—the umpires or someone—presents evidence that Burdette is using the spitter, I'll do nothing about it."[17][18] Burdette himself said, "It's the best pitch I've got—and I don't throw it."[17] The rumors persisted, though: Don Hoak said, "Only once did I ever see water fly off a spitball, and the man who threw me that pitch was Burdette."[18] The Sporting News wrote in 1967, "Perhaps no pitcher has engendered more controversy about the spitter than Lou Burdette."[18] New York Times sportswriter Red Smith wrote, "There should be 3 pitching statistics for Burdette: Wins, Losses, and Relative Humidity." Burdette himself referenced this reputation, saying he retired because "they were starting to hit the dry side of the ball."[19]

Personal life

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Burdette was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 [20] and the West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 1974. He died of lung cancer at age 80 in Winter Garden, Florida.[5]

In 1958, a reference to Burdette appeared in an episode of Leave It to Beaver. The text "Lew Burdette just hit a home run and Milwaukee leads seven to one in the series," appears briefly in a few frames showing a letter from the principal to Beaver's parents.[21] Burdette also released a single in 1958 with two Rockabilly songs "Three Strikes and You're Out" on the A side, and "Mary Lou" on the B side.[22]

Burdette's grandson, Nolan Fontana, is a retired former professional baseball player.[23]

Highlights

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  • Two-time All-Star (1957, 1959)
  • Third in Cy Young Award voting (1958)
  • Led league in wins (1959)
  • Led league in games started (1959)
  • Led league in complete games (1960)
  • Twice led league in shutouts (1956, 1959)
  • 5 times in top 4 in wins (1956–58, 1960–61)
  • World Series MVP (1957)
  • Player of the Month for August 1958

See also

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Lew Burdette

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Lew Burdette was an American professional baseball pitcher who played for 18 seasons in from 1950 to 1967, compiling a career record of 203 wins and 144 losses with a 3.66 over 3,067⅓ . Born Selva Lewis Burdette, Jr., on November 22, 1926, in , he debuted with the New York Yankees in 1950 before spending the bulk of his career with the and Braves from 1951 to 1963, later playing for the Cardinals, Cubs, Phillies, and Angels. Known for his exceptional control, competitive spirit, and on-field antics, Burdette earned two selections and led the National League in (2.70) and shutouts (six) in 1956. Burdette's most celebrated achievement came during the , where he pitched three complete games for the Braves against the New York Yankees, including two shutouts, to secure the championship and earn series honors with a 0.67 ERA. He followed with 20-win seasons in both 1958 (20-10 record) and 1959 (21-15), leading the league in wins and games started the latter year, while also hurling a against the Phillies on August 18, 1960. Earlier, in the famous May 26, 1959 regular-season game against , who pitched 12 perfect innings before the Braves scored the winning run in the 13th, Burdette threw 13 scoreless innings for a 1-0 victory, highlighting his clutch performance under pressure. After retiring, Burdette scouted pitchers for the and coached their minor-league affiliates from 1972 to 1973, later working in and . He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001, the Milwaukee Braves Wall of Honor in 2017, and the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1998, and he passed away on February 6, 2007, in , at age 80.

Early Life

Youth and Education

Selva Lewis Burdette Jr. was born on November 22, 1926, in , to Selva Lewis Burdette Sr., a foreman at the local American Viscose Rayon plant, and his wife Agnes Burnett. The Burdette family resided in this industrial community, originally established as a boom town for explosives manufacturing along the , where many residents, including Burdette's siblings, were employed in factory work, reflecting the area's working-class character. Growing up in Nitro, Burdette developed an early interest in sports through informal games with local children, which served as his primary introduction to the game amid limited organized opportunities. At Nitro High School, where no team existed, he first gained athletic recognition as a standout on the , honing his competitive drive in a small-town environment that emphasized community and manual labor. Following his graduation from high school, Burdette pitched in semi-organized play, posting a 12-2 record for the Viscose plant's team in the local Industrial League during the summer of 1944, which showcased his emerging talent and drew initial attention from enthusiasts. Burdette graduated from Nitro High School in 1944 at the age of 17, marking the end of his formal in a region shaped by industrial growth and economic challenges. Following a pivotal delay due to during , he enrolled at the in 1946, where he joined the team as a for the Spiders under legendary coach Mac Pitt. That season, Burdette earned All-Virginia Big Six honors for his performances on the mound, further solidifying his skills and attracting scouting interest from teams, including the New York Yankees, who recognized his potential shortly after high school.

Military Service

Following his graduation from Nitro High School in 1944, Lew Burdette enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps Reserve on April 14, 1945, at Camp Atterbury in . Assigned to a outfit due to the full ranks of active pilots and crew, Burdette did not serve overseas or engage in combat roles, reflecting the non-combat nature of his brief wartime contribution. Burdette's military service lasted approximately seven months, from enlistment through the final stages of until his honorable discharge on November 9, 1945. This interruption occurred just as Burdette was beginning to pursue semiprofessional baseball opportunities in , delaying his athletic development amid the broader wartime disruptions affecting many young athletes. The short duration of his service, however, allowed for a swift transition back to civilian life without long-term setbacks. Upon discharge, Burdette returned to baseball in 1946 by enrolling at the , where he pitched for the Spiders baseball team and quickly impressed scouts with his potential. This post-service resumption at the collegiate level proved pivotal, as his performances there facilitated his signing with the New York Yankees organization in 1947, marking the start of his professional career. Thus, while the military briefly halted his progress, it ultimately positioned him to leverage his skills in a competitive environment that accelerated his path to the major leagues.

Professional Career

Minor Leagues and Early Major League Years

Following his discharge from military service, Lew Burdette signed with the New York Yankees organization as an amateur in 1947 for a salary of $200 per month. Initially assigned to the Class B in the League, he appeared in just six games before transferring to the Class C Amsterdam Atoms of the Canadian-American League, where he posted a 9-10 record with a 2.82 over 150 . Burdette's minor league development showed early promise but included setbacks as he advanced levels. In 1948 with the Class B Quincy Gems of the Three-I League, he excelled with a 16-11 mark, a 2.02 ERA, and 185 strikeouts in 214 innings, demonstrating improved control and stamina. Promoted to Triple-A Kansas City Blues of the American Association the following year, he struggled against stiffer competition, finishing 6-7 with a 5.26 ERA in 118 innings and shifting primarily to relief duties; he roomed there with future Yankees teammate . Repeating at Kansas City in 1950, Burdette went 7-7 with a 4.79 ERA over 139 innings and 77 strikeouts, refining his sinking under the guidance of pitching coach while building a reputation for psychological tactics on the mound. Burdette made his major league debut with the Yankees on September 26, 1950, against the Washington Senators, entering in relief during the fifth and inducing a groundout to end the threat; he appeared in two games total that September, allowing two earned runs in 1.1 for a 6.75 without a decision. On August 29, 1951, the Yankees traded him to the along with $50,000 cash in exchange for veteran pitcher , a move that provided the Braves with a promising young arm as part of the deal. With the Braves, Burdette made three relief appearances in 1951, posting a 6.23 over 4.1 . In 1952, he transitioned to a more prominent role, appearing in 45 games mostly from the and starting 9, but endured early major league struggles with a 6-11 record and 3.61 in 137 , though his durability in high-leverage situations hinted at untapped potential. When the Braves relocated to for the 1953 season, Burdette seized the opportunity amid injuries to other starters, emerging as a key rotation member with a breakout 15-5 record, 3.24 , and six complete games in 46 appearances over 175 .

Milwaukee Braves Era

Following the Boston Braves' relocation to Milwaukee in 1953, Lew Burdette transitioned to a full-time role in the starting rotation, marking the start of his most productive period in the major leagues. In his debut season with the team in , he posted a 15-5 record with a 3.24 over 175 , one shutout, and six complete games as the Braves finished fourth in the National League. The following year in 1954, he recorded a 15-14 mark with a 2.76 over 238 , ranking second in the National League in and contributing four shutouts as the Braves finished second in the league. This performance established him as a reliable workhorse, contrasting sharply with his brief and ineffective stint as a with the New York Yankees in 1950, where he appeared in just two games without a decision. Burdette's standout seasons highlighted his rise to stardom within the Braves' rotation, anchored by fellow Hall of Famer . In 1956, he led the National League with a 2.70 and six shutouts, finishing 19-10 over 256.1 innings to help the Braves mount a strong pennant challenge, though they fell one game short of the title. The following year, 1957, Burdette went 17-9 with a 3.72 in 256.2 innings, earning his first All-Star selection and forming a formidable trio with Spahn and Bob Buhl that combined for 56 wins to secure the Braves' first National League pennant in nine years. He won 20 games (20-10, 2.91 ) in 1958 while placing third in Cy Young voting, contributing to the team's repeat pennant with three shutouts and 275.1 . Burdette continued his excellence into the early 1960s, tying for the National League lead in wins with 21 (21-15 record, 4.07 ) and shutouts (four) in 1959, while appearing in both Games despite the Braves' third-place finish amid a competitive race. His signature regular-season moment came on August 18, 1960, when he pitched a against the Phillies, winning 1-0 by facing the minimum 27 batters through exceptional control. That year, he recorded 19 wins (19-13, 3.36 ) over 275.2 with four shutouts, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the rotation during the Braves' consistent contention from 1953 to 1960. Amid growing trade speculation in the early , including discussions with the Baltimore Orioles, Burdette remained loyal to the Braves until his departure in midseason 1963, when he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals on June 15 after a 6-5 start (3.64 in 84 innings). Over his nine full seasons in (1954-1962), he amassed 152 wins, a testament to his enduring impact on the franchise's success.

Later Major League Teams

On June 15, 1963, Burdette was traded from the Braves to the Cardinals in exchange for catcher Gene Oliver and pitcher Bob Sadowski, marking the end of his tenure with the team where he had achieved his greatest success. With the Cardinals that year, he posted a 3-8 record over 98 innings, primarily in relief roles, contributing to a combined 9-13 mark for the season across both teams. His performance showed early signs of inconsistency compared to his peak years in , where he had routinely won 15 or more games annually. Burdette remained with the Cardinals into the 1964 season but appeared in only eight relief outings, going 1-0 with a 1.80 before being traded to the Cubs on June 2 in exchange for pitcher Glen Hobbie. In Chicago, he transitioned to a starting role, finishing the year 9-9 with a 4.88 over 131 , reflecting a further dip in effectiveness as he approached age 38. The move highlighted his diminishing status as a frontline starter, with the Cubs utilizing him in a mixed rotation amid their rebuilding efforts. His time with the Cubs extended into 1965, where he struggled in limited action, going 0-2 with a 5.31 in just 20.1 innings before being sold to the Phillies on May 30. With Philadelphia, Burdette made nine starts, recording a 3-3 mark and a 5.48 , often relying on his veteran savvy in short outings but unable to reclaim his earlier command. This brief stint, totaling just 91 innings for the season, underscored the challenges of maintaining velocity and consistency in his late 30s. Burdette signed as a with the California Angels prior to the 1966 season, shifting primarily to relief duties where he found some late-career stability. He appeared in 54 games, posting a 7-2 record with a 3.39 and five saves, including his 200th career victory on July 22 against the New York Yankees. The following year, at age 40, his role diminished further to 19 relief outings, yielding a 1-0 record and 4.91 over 18.1 innings, with his final major league appearance coming on July 16 against the , where he pitched a scoreless . Burdette's late-career decline was largely attributed to advancing age, which eroded his stamina and reduced his starting opportunities, leading to ERAs above his career mark from 1964 onward except for a resurgent 3.39 in 1966. While no major injuries were reported in these years, the cumulative wear from two decades of professional pitching contributed to his transition to the and eventual after a brief minor-league assignment with the Angels' AAA affiliate in in 1967.

Postseason Achievements

1957 World Series

The Milwaukee Braves defeated the New York Yankees 4 games to 3 in the , securing their only championship in the city and snapping the Yankees' streak of five consecutive titles. Lew Burdette emerged as the series' standout performer, earning the MVP award for his three complete-game victories in Games 2, 5, and 7, a rare feat last achieved by Stan Coveleski in 1920 and later matched by in 1967 and in 1968. His dominance included two shutouts and a career-best postseason of 0.67 over 27 , allowing just two runs—all in Game 2—while issuing four walks. This performance marked Burdette as the first World Series MVP from a team that had posted a worse regular-season record than its opponent, with the Braves finishing 95-59 compared to the Yankees' 98-56. In Game 2 on October 3 at , Burdette outdueled with nine innings of two-run ball, scattering seven hits and three walks to secure a 4-2 victory that evened the series at 1-1; the Braves' offense was paced by ' two-run homer in the fourth. Three days later, with the series tied 2-2, Burdette started Game 5 at County Stadium on October 7 against , delivering a masterful one-run on seven hits and no walks, as Milwaukee's lone run came on a seventh-inning by Johnny Logan; this 1-0 win gave the Braves a 3-2 lead and forced a decisive Game 7. Working on just two days' rest after fell ill, Burdette closed out the series in Game 7 on October 10, hurling another complete-game —this time a 5-0 blanking of —on seven hits with one walk, as the Braves erupted for four runs in the third inning highlighted by Del Crandall's two-run double. Burdette's heroics carried added personal significance, as he had begun his professional career in the Yankees' organization, signing with them in 1947 and making two relief appearances in 1950 before being traded to the Braves in 1952. His regular-season form in , where he posted a 17-13 record with a 3.05 over 298 , had prepared him for this postseason spotlight, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. The MVP award not only cemented Burdette's legacy as the architect of Milwaukee's triumph but also highlighted his mastery of the Yankees' lineup, including stars like and Yogi Berra, in a series remembered for its underdog drama.

1959 National League Tie-Breaker Series

The 1959 Milwaukee Braves finished the regular season tied with the at 86 wins, necessitating a best-of-three tie-breaker series to determine the National League pennant. Burdette started Game 2 on September 29 at the against . He pitched 8⅔ innings, allowing 10 hits and 5 runs (4 earned), with 2 walks and 5 strikeouts, in a no-decision as the Braves led 5-4 before the Dodgers rallied for two runs in the ninth off reliever Don McMahon to win 6-5 in 12 innings. The Braves lost the series 2-0, with Game 1 also a Dodgers victory, ending Milwaukee's bid for a third consecutive pennant.

1958 and 1964 World Series

In the 1958 World Series, Burdette started Games 2, 5, and 7 for the Braves against the New York Yankees, posting a 1-2 record with a 5.64 over 22.1 innings pitched. He earned a complete-game in Game 2, a 13-5 where he allowed five runs on 10 hits while contributing a three-run in the first to ignite the Braves' offense. However, his performance faltered in subsequent starts, yielding seven runs in six innings during a 7-0 loss in Game 5 and three runs in seven innings of a 6-2 defeat in Game 7, contributing to the Braves' 4-3 series loss despite his strong regular-season form of 20 wins. This outing contrasted sharply with his dominant 1957 World Series MVP performance, where he went 3-0 with a 0.67 , highlighting the challenges of sustaining peak effectiveness against a resilient Yankees lineup. Combined with his 1957 efforts, Burdette's 1957-58 record stood at 4-2 with a 2.93 across 49.1 , establishing him as a key postseason performer for the Braves during their consecutive National League pennants. His career mark finished at 4-2 with a 2.92 in six appearances, all starts, underscoring his historical impact despite the 1958 setbacks. By 1964, at age 37, Burdette had transitioned to a relief role with the St. Louis Cardinals early in the season, appearing in eight games with a 1-0 record and 1.80 before being traded to the Chicago Cubs on June 3. This move occurred well before the Cardinals' appearance against the Yankees, which they won 4-3, leaving Burdette without a postseason opportunity that year and reflecting the physical toll of aging on his once-enduring starting career amid shifting team dynamics in the National League. His limited regular-season contributions with St. Louis exemplified a late-career adaptation to duties, a far cry from his 1957 pinnacle, as injuries and roster changes curtailed his influence on championship contention.

On-Field Analysis

Pitching Style

Lew Burdette was renowned as a who emphasized control and precision over raw velocity, lacking an overpowering but excelling through meticulous command of the . His career average of 1.84 walks per nine underscored this approach, placing him among the most controlled hurlers of his and allowing him to induce weak contact rather than overpowering hitters with speed. This style contributed to his effectiveness in pitching complete games, a hallmark of his 18-year major league tenure where he logged 158 such outings by relying on location and movement to navigate lineups efficiently. Burdette's delivery was deliberately fidgety and methodical, designed to unsettle batters through a series of pauses, mannerisms, and adjustments that disrupted their timing and focus. He frequently fussed with his uniform, wiped his brow, adjusted his cap, and even muttered to himself on the , creating an aura of unease that former Braves manager Fred Haney described as enough to "make coffee nervous." These antics, far from signs of nerves, were a calculated psychological tactic to throw off opponents' rhythm before unleashing his pitches. Throughout his career, Burdette faced persistent rumors of employing illegal pitches, particularly the , which had been banned in since 1920, though he was never suspended for such activity. Opposing managers and players, including Cincinnati Reds skipper Birdie Tebbetts, accused him of violating rules by on the ball, glove, or hands, but Burdette and his teammates consistently denied the claims, with umpires finding no evidence during inspections. He shrewdly cultivated the suspicion as a mental edge, once quipping, "My best pitch is one I do not throw," which amplified the intimidation factor without confirming any wrongdoing. Anecdotes from contemporaries, such as Yankees outfielder noting that Burdette's sinker alone was deceptive enough without needing illicit aid, highlighted how the rumors enhanced his reputation as a crafty operator. Burdette's arsenal centered on a mix of off-speed and movement pitches that complemented his control: a sharp sinker (often called a sinking ) to generate ground balls, a reliable delivered from a sidearm slot for deception, and a to further vary speeds and keep hitters off-balance. He also incorporated a and occasional screwball variations, but his success stemmed from seamlessly locating these offerings within the rather than overwhelming batters with power. This repertoire proved particularly potent in high-stakes situations, as evidenced by his three complete-game victories in the .

Career Statistics

Lew Burdette compiled a distinguished 18-year career from 1950 to 1967, amassing 203 wins against 144 losses while posting a 3.66 over 3,067.1 in 626 appearances, including 373 starts. He struck out 1,074 batters, completed 158 games, and recorded 33 shutouts, showcasing durability and effectiveness as a workhorse starter in an era dominated by complete games and high pitch counts. Burdette earned selections in 1957 and , representing the National League in both games that year. His peak performance came during the late with the Milwaukee Braves, where he frequently anchored the rotation alongside . Burdette led the National League in with a 2.70 mark in , tied for the wins lead with 21 in , paced the circuit in shutouts with six in , and shared the complete games lead with 18 in 1960. These accomplishments highlighted his command on the mound, as evidenced by a career-low 1.07 walks per nine that stemmed from his meticulous control-oriented pitching style. In postseason play, Burdette appeared in two , posting a 4-2 record with a 2.78 across 49.1 innings in six starts; his standout contribution came in the , where he went 3-0 with a 0.67 over 27 innings, including two shutouts. The following table summarizes Burdette's annual wins and during his MLB career:
YearTeamWins
1950NYY06.75
1951BSN06.23
1952BSN63.61
1953MLN153.24
1954MLN152.76
1955MLN134.03
1956MLN192.70
1957MLN173.72
1958MLN202.91
1959MLN214.07
1960MLN193.36
1961MLN184.00
1962MLN104.89
1963MLN/STL93.71
1964STL/CHC104.66
1965CHC/PHI35.44
1966CAL73.39
1967CAL14.91
Career-2033.66
Burdette's statistics often invite comparison to his longtime teammate , the era's premier left-handed pitcher and a Hall of Famer whose endurance far exceeded Burdette's but whose peak efficiency mirrored it closely. The table below contrasts their career pitching totals:
StatisticLew Burdette
Wins-Losses203-144363-245
ERA3.663.09
Innings Pitched3,067.15,243.2
Strikeouts1,0742,583
Complete Games158382
Shutouts3363
While Spahn's longevity produced superior volume stats, Spahn's win rate (.597) slightly exceeded Burdette's (.585), underscoring his reliability in high-leverage situations during the Braves' contending years.

Personal Life

Family

Lew Burdette married Mary Ann Shelton on June 30, 1949, in , after meeting her at a local the previous October. The couple remained together for nearly 58 years until Burdette's death in 2007, with Mary Ann outliving him by several months; she passed away on June 6, 2007, in . Their marriage coincided with the early stages of Burdette's professional baseball career, and Mary Ann provided steadfast support as the family navigated the demands of frequent team relocations and road schedules. The Burdettes had four children: son Lewis Kent, born in July 1951; daughter Madge Rhea, born on December 25, 1954, whom Lew famously helped deliver himself in a police ambulance en route to during an emergency; daughter Mary Lou, born just days before Game 1 of the ; and daughter Elaina, born in May 1960. Despite the challenges of Burdette's traveling schedule as a major league pitcher—which often kept him on the road for weeks at a time—the family maintained close bonds, splitting time between during the season and , in the offseasons, where Lew worked in to supplement their income. Burdette's grandson Nolan Fontana, the son of daughter Elaina, followed in the family tradition by pursuing a career as an infielder. Drafted by the Houston Astros in the second round of the 2011 MLB Draft out of the , Fontana made his major league debut with the on May 22, 2017, appearing in 17 total MLB games over 2017 and 2018 before continuing in the minors and retiring after the 2020 season. Fontana often honored his grandfather by wearing jersey number 33, Burdette's longtime number with the Milwaukee Braves, and credited Burdette's influence for inspiring his own path in the sport.

Entertainment and Interests

Beyond his accomplishments on the baseball diamond, Lew Burdette ventured into the entertainment world with a novelty single released in 1957 on , featuring "Three Strikes and You're Out" on the A-side and "Mary Lou" on the B-side, capitalizing on his fame. This recording reflected the era's blend of sports celebrity and trends, showcasing Burdette's playful side amid the 1950s boom. Burdette made several media appearances that highlighted his public persona as a charismatic pitcher. Following his standout performance in the 1957 World Series, he appeared on The Steve Allen Show, engaging audiences with discussions on his craft and the excitement of postseason play. He also featured in Camel cigarette advertisements, leveraging his image as a tobacco-chewing hurler known for his mound rituals, which added to his folksy, entertaining reputation among fans. Additionally, Burdette participated in the lecture circuit, delivering talks on pitching techniques that drew crowds eager for insights from one of the game's top control artists. In his off-field pursuits, Burdette enjoyed leisurely activities that provided respite from the rigors of . He was an avid golfer, , and , often spending time on the or the course to unwind, activities that his family joined him in during downtime. These interests underscored his appreciation for , balancing the intensity of his career with personal relaxation.

Post-Retirement and Legacy

Coaching and Scouting

Following his retirement as a player after the 1967 season, Burdette transitioned into scouting roles within Major League Baseball's organizational structure. In 1968, he served as a scout for the southeastern region through the Central Scouting Bureau, leveraging his extensive experience as a 203-game winner to evaluate amateur and professional talent. Burdette continued his involvement in player development as a pitching coach in the Gulf Coast League from 1969 to 1970, where he focused on instructing young pitchers in fundamentals and mechanics while dividing his time between coaching duties and business ventures in his hometown of . This role allowed him to impart lessons from his own 18-season MLB career, emphasizing control and strategy over raw velocity. In 1972, Burdette returned to the major leagues as the pitching coach for the , a position he held through the 1973 season, shortly after the franchise's relocation from in 1966. He mentored the Braves' pitching staff during a transitional period, drawing on his expertise to guide hurlers in a competitive National League environment. By the mid-1970s, Burdette stepped away from full-time operations, marking the end of his active advisory contributions to the sport.

Later Years and Death

After concluding his brief tenure as a pitching coach for the from 1972 to 1973, Lew Burdette entered civilian employment, working for a cable installation contractor and investing in in . Burdette resided in , for nearly 50 years after moving there in 1953, before relocating to Winter Garden, northwest of Orlando, in 2000. In retirement, he enjoyed hobbies such as golfing, , and . In the late 1990s, Burdette was diagnosed with lung cancer and battled the disease for eight years. He died on February 6, 2007, at the age of 80 in Winter Garden, Florida. A memorial service was held on February 24, 2007, in Orlando, with details available through his son, Lew Burdette Jr. In lieu of flowers, the family requested contributions to the Lou Burdette Foundation, reflecting their emphasis on supporting community causes in his memory. Burdette was survived by his wife, Mary Ann; son, Lew Jr.; three daughters, Madge, Mary Lou, and Elaina; brother Les; sister Fay; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Awards and Honors

Lew Burdette's most prominent accolade came in 1957 when he was named the after pitching three complete games, including two shutouts, to lead the Braves to victory over the New York Yankees. He also received the Babe Ruth Award that year, recognizing his outstanding postseason performance as the top player in the Fall Classic. During his career, Burdette earned two All-Star selections (appearing in three games: 1957 and both 1959 midsummer classics as the National League's representative). He led the National League in with a 2.70 mark in 1956, showcasing his control and effectiveness early in his tenure with the Braves. In 1959, Burdette tied for the league lead in wins with 21 and also paced the circuit in shutouts with four, contributing to another strong season for the Braves despite their pennant loss. Additionally, on , 1960, he pitched a against the Phillies at County Stadium, allowing just one baserunner in a 1-0 victory. Burdette's contributions were formally recognized through several inductions into halls of fame. He was enshrined in the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1998 for his impact on the sport and his ties to the state, where he resided later in life. In 2001, he entered the Hall of Fame, honoring his role as a key during the franchise's era. In 2017, Burdette was posthumously inducted into the Braves Wall of Honor. Posthumously, following his death in 2007, Burdette was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2008, acknowledging his college roots and professional success. The (SABR) further highlighted his legacy through a detailed BioProject entry, emphasizing his partnership with as one of the era's premier pitching duos. Despite these honors, Burdette's achievements have often been overshadowed by contemporaries like Hall of Famer , with whom he formed a dominant rotation for the Braves, yet Burdette received less acclaim for his consistent excellence and postseason heroics.

References

  1. https://www.mlb.com/player/lew-burdette-111701
  2. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/lew-burdette/
  3. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=burdele01
  4. https://cityofnitro.org/about-nitro-west-virginia/history-of-nitro/
  5. https://beisbol101.com/lew-burdette-nitro-west-virginia-to-mayaguez-puerto-rico-to-world-series-mvp-part-i/
  6. https://richmondspiders.com/honors/richmond-athletics-hall-of-fame/lew-burdette/27
  7. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Burdette-932
  8. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/Lew_Burdette
  9. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/college/university_of_richmond_baseball_players.shtml
  10. https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=burdet001sel
  11. https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burdele01.shtml
  12. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/trades.php?p=burdele01
  13. https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/NL/1959-pitching-leaders.shtml
  14. https://retrosimba.com/2023/06/09/why-cardinals-had-high-hopes-for-lew-burdette/
  15. https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/1957_WS.shtml
  16. https://www.mlb.com/news/1957-world-series-recap
  17. https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/NYA/NYA195710030.shtml
  18. https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/MLN/MLN195710070.shtml
  19. https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/NYA/NYA195710100.shtml
  20. https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN195909290.shtml
  21. https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/1958_WS.shtml
  22. https://www.mlb.com/news/1958-world-series-recap
  23. https://www.baseball-reference.com/bullpen/1958_World_Series
  24. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/playerpost.php?p=burdele01&ps=ws
  25. https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/majors/1964-transactions.shtml
  26. https://www.baseball-reference.com/b/burdele01.shtml
  27. https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/07/sports/baseball/07burdette.html
  28. https://thisdayinbaseball.com/lew-burdette-accused-of-spitball/
  29. https://www.nytimes.com/1957/10/04/archives/bombers-hail-burdettes-pitching-they-detect-no-sign-of-illegal.html
  30. https://vault.si.com/vault/1957/10/21/a-mean-hand-with-a-rock
  31. https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2007/02/11/sarasota-resident-lew-burdette-was-mvp-of-57-series/28564038007/
  32. https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/NL/1956-pitching-leaders.shtml
  33. https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/NL/1960-pitching-leaders.shtml
  34. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/lew-burdette
  35. https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/spahnwa01.shtml
  36. https://www.geni.com/people/Mary-Burdette/6000000041303558108
  37. https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2010/05/20/gators-star-nolan-fontana-paying-tribute-to-his-late-grandfather-former-pitcher-lew-burdette/
  38. https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fontano01.shtml
  39. https://www.bsnpubs.com/dot/dotstory.html
  40. https://www.thedeadballera.com/Obits/Burdette.Lew.Obit.html
  41. https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/august-18-1960-lew-burdette-tosses-a-no-hitter-for-braves/
  42. https://www.baseball-reference.com/awards/ruth.shtml
  43. https://flasportshof.org/fshofmember/lew-burdette/
  44. https://www.mlb.com/news/brewers-to-honor-corey-hart-lew-burdette-c217408246
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