Frank Viola, American baseball player and coach

Frank John Viola Jr., born on April 19, 1960, is an esteemed American former starting pitcher whose impressive career left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball. Known for his crafty left-handed pitching and competitive spirit, Viola distinguished himself as one of the league's top hurlers during his active years, earning a reputation for consistently delivering quality performances from the mound.

A Storied Playing Career

Viola’s journey in professional baseball saw him grace the pitching rotations of several iconic franchises. He began his Major League career with the Minnesota Twins, where he played from 1982 to 1989, becoming a cornerstone of their pitching staff. His time in Minnesota was undoubtedly the most successful and memorable phase of his career, culminating in the team's historic 1987 World Series victory. Viola's exceptional performance in that championship series earned him the prestigious World Series Most Valuable Player award, solidifying his place in Twins lore. The very next year, in 1988, he further cemented his legacy by winning the coveted American League Cy Young Award, recognizing him as the league's best pitcher.

Following his impactful tenure with the Twins, Viola moved to the New York Mets, where he pitched from 1989 to 1991, continuing to showcase his talent in a major market. His career then took him to the Boston Red Sox (1992–1994), followed by brief stints with the Cincinnati Reds in 1995, and finally concluding with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1996. Throughout his career, he was celebrated as a three-time All-Star, a testament to his consistent excellence and appeal to fans and peers alike.

"Sweet Music": The Unforgettable Nickname

One of the most endearing aspects of Frank Viola's persona was his iconic nickname, "Sweet Music." This moniker was not merely a random designation but a tribute to his captivating performances. The story goes that a Minnesota sports writer, enthralled by Viola's masterful pitching, declared that when he took to the mound, there was "Sweet Music" filling the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome – the Twins' home stadium at the time. The nickname also cleverly played on the fact that his last name, "Viola," is also the name of a musical instrument, although the pronunciation differs (Vi-OH-la for the pitcher versus Vee-OH-la for the instrument).

This nickname soon transcended mere words. A dedicated fan began displaying a large banner bearing the phrase "Sweet Music" in the upper deck of the outfield whenever Viola pitched. This banner quickly became more than just a fan tribute; Twins fans embraced it as a cherished good luck charm, believing it brought fortune to their team. Today, this piece of baseball history is rightfully preserved as property of the Minnesota Historical Society. Its significance was once again highlighted when it was proudly displayed during Viola's induction into the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame, a moment that beautifully connected his past achievements with his lasting legacy.

Post-Playing Career and Legacy

Even after hanging up his cleats, Frank Viola has remained deeply involved in baseball. He continues to share his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of players, currently serving as the pitching coach for the High Point Rockers. His impact on the Minnesota Twins organization is particularly profound; in 2009, he was honored as a distinguished member of the Twins' "All Dome" team, recognizing the best players who played in the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome during its operational years. These post-career recognitions underscore his enduring influence and the high regard in which he is held within the baseball community, especially by the fans of the Minnesota Twins who watched him bring "Sweet Music" to their hearts and their ballpark.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frank Viola

What teams did Frank Viola play for during his MLB career?
Frank Viola played for the Minnesota Twins (1982–1989), New York Mets (1989–1991), Boston Red Sox (1992–1994), Cincinnati Reds (1995), and Toronto Blue Jays (1996).
What were Frank Viola's major achievements in Major League Baseball?
Viola was a three-time All-Star, won the World Series MVP award with the Minnesota Twins in 1987, and was awarded the American League Cy Young Award in 1988.
How did Frank Viola get his nickname "Sweet Music"?
The nickname "Sweet Music" originated from a Minnesota sports writer who commented that Viola's pitching brought "Sweet Music" to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. It also cleverly played on his last name being a musical instrument, despite a difference in pronunciation.
What is Frank Viola doing now?
As of now, Frank Viola serves as the pitching coach for the High Point Rockers.
Is Frank Viola in the National Baseball Hall of Fame?
While Frank Viola is a revered figure and a member of the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame, he has not been inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
When was Frank Viola inducted into the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame?
The text states the banner was displayed when he was inducted, but does not provide the exact year of his induction into the Twins Hall of Fame. However, he was honored as a member of the Twins' "All Dome" team in 2009.