Ralph Kiner

Profession: Baseball Hall of Fame Left Fielder

Nationality:

Biography: Ralph Kiner was an American baseball player and broadcaster. He made a name for himself as a powerful hitter during his decade-long Major League Baseball career and later as an announcer. Kiner is best known for leading the National League in home runs for seven consecutive seasons and for his long tenure as a broadcaster for the New York Mets.

Raised in California, Kiner served as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II before debuting in MLB with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1946. He quickly became a prominent figure in baseball, leading the league in home runs from 1946 to 1952 and becoming a six-time All-Star.

Kiner played for the Pirates, Chicago Cubs, and Cleveland Indians, retiring due to a back injury with 369 home runs and a batting average of .279.

After retiring as a player, Kiner became the general manager of the San Diego Padres from 1956 to 1960 and was later inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975. He shifted to a broadcasting career, starting with the Chicago White Sox in 1961, until he found his longstanding role with the New York Mets the following year.

Kiner became known for his signature home run call and was awarded a local Emmy for his work in broadcasting. He continued this role despite health challenges, including suffering from Bell's palsy.

Kiner's personal life included high-profile romances, and he was married four times, notably to tennis star Nancy Chaffee. His family connections to baseball continued with his second cousin twice removed, MLB infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa.

Born: October 27, 1922
Birthplace: Santa Rita, New Mexico, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Dog
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: February 6, 2014 (aged 91)