Joe Niekro

Joseph Franklin Niekro (November 7, 1944 – October 27, 2006) was a right-handed pitcher who spent 22 seasons in the major leagues from 1967 to 1988, appearing for seven franchises with the Houston Astros as his primary club. Born in Martins Ferry, Ohio, he attended Bridgeport High School and West Liberty University before being drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 1966. He posted a 3.34 ERA in his 1967 debut and followed with a 14–10 record in 1968. The younger brother of pitcher Phil Niekro, he was also the father of major league first baseman Lance Niekro.