Greatest Moment In Marlins History: #133 Satchel Paige

Welcome back to the Greatest Moments in Marlins History. From 1956-1960 there was a team in Miami called the Marlins who played in the International League. This team has no affiliation with our current Marlins, but earlier this year the Marlins wore the 1956 Miami Marlins Jersey with a Satchel Paige patch. So today we present moment 133- Satchel Paige pitching for the Miami Marlins!

Jul 20, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Miami Marlins pitcher Nate Eovaldi pitches in 1st inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

In 1956 Bill Veeck signed Satchel to a contract to pitch for the Marlins. Veeck, being the showmen he is, brought Satchel to the mound on Opening Day on a helicopter. Insane! A rocking chair was put in the bullpen for old Satchel who was in his 50’s, however he didn’t throw like a man in his 50’s. In 1956 Satchel went 11-4 with an ERA of 1.86 and throwing 2 complete game shut outs. He could also still draw a crowd too.

On August 7, 1956 he drew 51,000 plus fans in a game against the Columbus Jets. This game is considered the biggest drawing Minor League game of all time!  During this game he pitched 8 innings, and helped his own cause by smacking a 3 run double to help him get the win. This team might not be the Marlins we know but these moments are hanging in Marlins Park, so we will count it. Join me next time as we continue the countdown. Till next time… Let’s Go Marlins