Greetings, fellow baseball enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a journey into the extraordinary life of Joe Nuxhall, a Cincinnati icon and one of the most beloved figures in baseball history. Born and raised in Hamilton, Ohio, Nuxhall’s passion for the game was ignited at an early age, leading him to a remarkable career that spanned decades.
From his humble beginnings as a Cincinnati Reds pitcher in 1952, to his iconic role as the team’s long-time broadcaster, Nuxhall’s contributions to the city of Cincinnati and the sport of baseball cannot be overstated. His warm personality, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication made him a legend both on and off the field.
Throughout his illustrious career, Nuxhall witnessed some of the greatest moments in baseball history, including the Reds’ World Series victories in 1975 and 1990. His enduring legacy, however, extends far beyond the statistics and the championships. Nuxhall’s love for the game and his ability to connect with fans from all walks of life cemented his status as a true Cincinnati icon, forever etched in the annals of baseball history.
Joe Nuxhall: A Cincinnati Reds Legend
A Beloved Broadcaster
Joe Nuxhall, affectionately known as “The Old Lefthander,” was not only a legendary pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds but also a beloved broadcaster for over half a century. His infectious humor, captivating storytelling, and genuine love for the game made him an icon in both roles.
Nuxhall’s broadcasting career began in the early 1960s, and he quickly became a fixture in the Reds’ radio and television booths. For decades, his voice graced the airwaves, providing generations of fans with unforgettable moments and insights. His signature call, “Holy Toledo!” became synonymous with the Reds and their passionate fan base.
Nuxhall’s humor was a constant throughout his broadcasting career. He had a knack for turning everyday occurrences into hilarious anecdotes, and his tales of his playing days and encounters with baseball’s biggest names always brought laughter to the booth and the living rooms of fans.
Beyond his wit, Nuxhall was also a master storyteller. His broadcasts were filled with captivating tales of the game’s past, the players he knew, and the moments that had shaped baseball history. He had an uncanny ability to transport listeners and viewers back in time, recounting the golden era of the sport with vivid detail and infectious enthusiasm.
But perhaps Nuxhall’s most endearing quality was his genuine love for the Reds and the game of baseball. He was a true ambassador for the sport, and his passion radiated through his broadcasts. His love for the team and the city was palpable, and fans could sense his pride and joy in every inning he called.
Joe Nuxhall’s contributions to the Reds and the sport of baseball are immeasurable. He was a cherished broadcaster who entertained and educated generations of fans, and a true legend of the game he loved so much.
A Hall of Fame Career
A Solid Pitching Career
Throughout his 16-year career spent solely with the Cincinnati Reds, Joe Nuxhall was a formidable pitcher, amassing a respectable 135 wins and maintaining a commendable earned run average (ERA) of 3.61. His pitching prowess was most evident in 1955 when he emerged as the National League’s strikeout leader, a testament to his exceptional control and ability to keep batters off balance.
Nuxhall’s pitching style was characterized by consistency and durability. He was not known for overpowering fastballs or devastating breaking pitches but rather relied on pinpoint accuracy and a well-placed changeup to neutralize hitters. His deceptive arsenal kept batters guessing, leading to a high number of groundouts and weak contacts.
Nuxhall was a master of efficiency, rarely needing more than 100 pitches to complete a game. His economical pitching style allowed him to start a remarkable 480 games during his career, ranking him among the most durable pitchers of his era. He also displayed remarkable longevity, pitching effectively well into his 40s, a testament to his meticulous conditioning and unwavering determination.
Beyond his impressive statistics, Nuxhall was also known for his impeccable control. He rarely walked batters, issuing just 1,077 free passes over 2,438 innings pitched. His ability to throw strikes consistently put hitters in disadvantageous counts, allowing him to induce weak contact and minimize his pitch count.
Nuxhall’s contributions to the Reds extended beyond the mound. He was a respected clubhouse leader, mentoring young pitchers and providing guidance to his teammates. His professionalism and dedication to the game made him an integral part of the Reds’ success during his tenure.
A Longtime Fixture
Joe Nuxhall’s unwavering loyalty to the Cincinnati Reds organization extended far beyond his playing days. After retiring from the mound, he dedicated the rest of his life to the team he loved.
Nuxhall’s transition to coaching began in 1966, when he took over as the pitching coach for the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate, the Denver Bears. His guidance helped nurture the talents of several young hurlers, including future Cy Young Award winner Gary Nolan. After Nolan’s impressive ascent through the minors, Nuxhall would later serve as his pitching coach at the major league level from 1973 to 1976.
In addition to his coaching duties, Nuxhall also worked as a scout for the Reds, with a keen eye for identifying and developing promising young players. His extensive network of connections throughout the baseball world proved invaluable in bringing new talent to Cincinnati.
When he wasn’t on the field or in the scouting department, Nuxhall served as an ambassador for the Reds, representing the organization at countless events and functions. His infectious personality and deep knowledge of the game made him a beloved figure among fans and fellow baseball enthusiasts alike.
As a testament to his enduring legacy with the Reds, a bronze statue of Nuxhall was erected outside Great American Ball Park in 2004. This iconic sculpture captures the essence of his signature pitching motion, forever immortalizing his status as one of the most cherished figures in Cincinnati baseball history.
Nuxhall’s Legacy
A Broadcasting Great
Joe Nuxhall’s remarkable broadcasting career left an enduring legacy on Reds baseball and the sport as a whole. His induction into the broadcasters wing of the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2004 stands as a testament to his exceptional contributions to the industry. The Ford C. Frick Award, which he received in 1977, recognized his unparalleled excellence in broadcasting. Nuxhall’s distinctive voice and passionate storytelling became synonymous with Reds baseball, capturing the excitement and artistry of the game for generations of fans.
Nuxhall’s journey in broadcasting began in 1955, when he joined the Reds’ radio booth as an analyst. His natural charisma and deep knowledge of the game quickly made him a fan favorite. In 1964, he assumed the role of play-by-play commentator, and his legendary voice became inextricably linked to the Reds’ golden era. For over four decades, Nuxhall’s voice graced the airwaves, narrating the triumphs and heartbreaks of countless games.
Nuxhall’s broadcasting style was marked by his infectious enthusiasm, witty humor, and unwavering optimism. He had a remarkable ability to connect with fans on a personal level, making them feel as if they were part of the action. His signature catchphrases, such as “This one belongs to the Reds!” and “Golly, gee whiz,” became part of the Reds’ lore. Through his masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions, Nuxhall brought the game to life, creating lasting memories for countless fans.
Nuxhall’s contributions to baseball extended beyond his broadcasting career. He served as a coach and scout for the Reds, and his insights and experience proved invaluable to the team’s success. His tireless work behind the scenes helped shape the Reds’ identity and elevate their performance on the field. Throughout his life, Nuxhall remained a tireless ambassador for the game he loved, promoting baseball at every opportunity and inspiring generations of young players.
Joe Nuxhall’s legacy as a broadcasting great lives on in the indelible memories of Reds fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. His voice, his wit, and his unwavering passion for the game continue to enrich the tapestry of baseball history, ensuring that his impact will be felt for years to come.
His Battle with Cancer
A Long Struggle
In the early 1990s, Joe Nuxhall was diagnosed with melanoma, a type of skin cancer. It was a devastating blow to the beloved broadcaster and former pitcher, who had always been known for his indomitable spirit and infectious enthusiasm. Determined to fight the disease, Nuxhall underwent multiple surgeries and grueling treatments.
Despite the physical and emotional toll that the cancer took on him, Nuxhall refused to let it define him. He continued to work, broadcasting Reds games and inspiring others with his unwavering optimism. In his autobiography, “Joe Nuxhall: The Old Lefthander,” he wrote, “I’m not going to let cancer beat me. I’m going to keep fighting, and I’m going to keep living.”
Nuxhall’s courage in the face of adversity was an inspiration to many. His fellow broadcasters, players, and fans alike rallied around him, offering support and prayers. Former Reds manager Sparky Anderson said, “Joe is the toughest guy I’ve ever known. He’s a fighter, and he’s not going to give up without a fight.”
Nuxhall’s battle with cancer lasted for nearly a decade. During that time, he became a symbol of hope and perseverance. He showed the world that even in the face of a life-threatening illness, it was possible to maintain a positive attitude and continue to live a full and meaningful life.
The Power of Perseverance
Nuxhall’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. He refused to let cancer break his spirit or rob him of his love for life. He continued to work, to broadcast games, and to inspire others. His determination to live life to the fullest was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Even as his health declined, Nuxhall never lost his sense of humor or his love for the game of baseball. He would often joke about his cancer, saying that it was “just another bump in the road.” And he would always make sure to catch a Reds game whenever he could, even if he had to use a wheelchair to get to the stadium.
Nuxhall’s perseverance was an example to us all. It showed us that no matter what challenges we face in life, we can overcome them if we have the courage and determination to keep fighting.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Joe Nuxhall passed away in 2007 at the age of 82. But his legacy continues to inspire others to this day. His story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and hope. It is a story that teaches us the importance of perseverance, courage, and living life to the fullest.
Nuxhall’s memory is honored in many ways. The Reds retired his jersey number, 41, in 2004. In 2008, the team unveiled a statue of Nuxhall outside of Great American Ball Park. And in 2014, the Reds established the Joe Nuxhall Courage Award, which is given annually to a player who demonstrates the same courage and perseverance that Nuxhall displayed throughout his life.
Joe Nuxhall was a true legend both on and off the field. His story is an inspiration to us all, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can overcome challenges and live a full and meaningful life.
A Symbol of Cincinnati
A City Icon
Joe Nuxhall was more than just a baseball player in Cincinnati. He was a symbol of the city itself, embodying the best of its baseball tradition. His warm personality, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering loyalty to the Reds made him a beloved figure in the Queen City.
Nuxhall’s legacy extends beyond his time on the field. His memory continues to live on through the Nuxhall Miracle League, a baseball league for children with disabilities. The league was founded in 2004 by the Nuxhall family and has since become a thriving organization, providing opportunities for hundreds of children to experience the joy of playing baseball.
Nuxhall’s impact on Cincinnati baseball is immeasurable. His number 41 was retired by the Reds in 1967, and he was inducted into the Reds Hall of Fame in 1971. In 2003, a statue of Nuxhall was erected outside Great American Ball Park, forever immortalizing his place among the city’s baseball legends.
Nuxhall’s legacy as a Reds great will never be forgotten. His name and number are synonymous with Cincinnati baseball, and his spirit continues to inspire future generations of Reds fans.