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2011 Hall of Fame Inductee
Irving “Pro” Boim
Born July 2, 1921 in Chicago. Nicknamed “Pro” at five years old as he was great imitator of baseball-stars. High school pitching ace. Attended U of M. Had great curve and live fastball. Number-one pitcher in sophomore year, winning Big Ten Championship. In 1942 had 1.40 ERA and joined the Navy. While in training, pitched against many big-league stars, striking out Ted Williams twice in a row. Following college, enjoyed nine-year career in minor leagues with Pittsburgh, Chicago White Sox, and Cincinnati where he played with or against 56 Big Leaguers. Due to war, lost chance in Majors. His greatest achievement: inspiring thousands of kids in baseball camps and as an elementary physical education teacher for 44 years. Inducted 2011.
Filed Under: Baseball