Jim Hearn, American baseball player (d. 1998)

James Tolbert Hearn, born on April 11, 1921, in Atlanta, Georgia, and passing away on June 10, 1998, also in his hometown, was a distinguished American professional baseball player. For thirteen seasons, from 1947 to 1959, Hearn was a formidable right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball, known for his imposing presence on the mound. He stood at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) tall and weighed 205 pounds (93 kilograms), a physique that certainly contributed to his pitching prowess during his era.

Hearn's journey through professional baseball saw him don the uniforms of several prominent teams. He began his MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals, pitching for them from 1947 to 1949. His career truly blossomed after a trade to the New York Giants in 1950, where he quickly became a pivotal component of their pitching staff. It was with the Giants that Hearn achieved some of his most memorable successes, particularly during the thrilling 1951 season. That year, he not only earned an All-Star selection but also led the National League in shutouts, demonstrating his ability to dominate opposing lineups. He played a crucial role in the Giants' improbable run to the 1951 National League pennant, famously clinched by Bobby Thomson's "Shot Heard 'Round the World." Hearn started a game in the subsequent World Series against the New York Yankees, further cementing his place in baseball lore.

After his impactful tenure with the Giants through 1954, Hearn moved on to pitch for the Baltimore Orioles from 1954 to 1957. He concluded his lengthy and respected career with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he pitched from 1957 until his final season in 1959. Over his 13-year career, Jim Hearn, as he was commonly known, accumulated a solid win-loss record, showcasing his consistency and durability as a starting pitcher during a competitive period in baseball history. His legacy is one of a reliable, workhorse pitcher who contributed significantly to the teams he represented, particularly during a golden age of baseball in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jim Hearn

Who was James "Jim" Hearn?
James Tolbert Hearn was an American professional baseball pitcher who played for 13 seasons in Major League Baseball from 1947 to 1959.
What teams did he play for?
He played for the St. Louis Cardinals (1947–49), New York Giants (1950–54), Baltimore Orioles (1954–57), and Philadelphia Phillies (1957–59).
What was his primary position?
He was a right-handed starting pitcher.
What were some of his notable career achievements?
Jim Hearn was an All-Star in 1951, led the National League in shutouts that same year, and was a key pitcher for the pennant-winning 1951 New York Giants, including starting a game in the World Series.
When was he born and when did he pass away?
He was born on April 11, 1921, and passed away on June 10, 1998.