Wednesday, January 10, 2001
Phillies to retire Bunning's No. 14 on opening day
The Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies will retire the No. 14 jersey worn by Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Bunning before the team's home opener in April.
Bunning, now a Republican U.S. Senator from Northern Kentucky, accumulated a record of 224 wins and 184 losses in 17 years in the majors. He was the second pitcher in history (after Cy Young) to achieve 1,000 strikeouts and 100 wins in both the National and American Leagues.
While with the Phillies, the Fort Thomas native pitched a perfect game against the Mets in 1964 and became the first to pitch in All-Star Games for both leagues.
“Jim won the first game at Veterans Stadium 30 years ago this April and it is fitting that we honor him at this year's home opener,” said Larry Shenk, the team's vice president of public relations.
His jersey number is the fifth to be retired by the Phillies, joining Richie Ashburn (1), Robin Roberts (36), Steve Carlton (32) and Mike Schmidt (20).
Bunning pitched for Detroit, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Los Angeles in his 17-year career. From 1955 to 1971, he led the majors in wins, innings and strikeouts.
After ending his playing career, he managed in the Phillies minor league system for five years.
During the April 6 home opener, the Phillies will also honor right-handed pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander and outfielder Chuck Klein by displaying the block-like “P” that was worn on Phillies uniforms early in the 1900s.
Alexander played for the Phillies from 1911-1917 and again in 1930; he died in 1950. Klein played for the Phillies for 12 years; he died in 1958.
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Phillies to retire Bunning's No. 14 on opening day