Walter Johnson
Walter Johnson
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Walter Perry Johnson, commonly known as "The Big Train", was a renowned American baseball player, coach, and executive.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on November 6, 1887, in Humboldt, Kansas. Passed away on December 10, 1946.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Baseball Player, Coach, Executive
Early Life and Background
Walter Johnson was born to George and Louise Johnson in a small farming town in Kansas. His father was an immigrant from Sweden who had settled in the United States as a child. Growing up on a farm, Walter developed a strong work ethic and physical stamina that would serve him well throughout his life.
Johnson's early interest in baseball began when he watched local teams play against each other during the summer months. He soon became a skilled player himself, pitching for his high school team and later playing semi-professional ball before being signed by the Washington Senators of the American League (AL) in 1907.
Major Accomplishments
Johnson's impressive baseball career spanned over two decades, with numerous accolades and records to his name. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Pitching seven no-hitters during his career, a record that stood for nearly 50 years.
Holding the single-season strikeout record (411) in 1913, which still stands today.
Winning two American League MVP awards (1912 and 1913).
Being inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936.
Notable Works or Actions
Johnson's influence on baseball extended beyond his impressive playing career. He served as a player-coach for the Senators from 1914 to 1927, mentoring young players and helping to shape the team's success during that period.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Johnson was also known for his kindness and generosity off the field. He was a beloved figure in the Washington community, often visiting hospitals and orphanages to bring joy and inspiration to those in need.
Impact and Legacy
Walter Johnson's impact on baseball is immeasurable. His impressive pitching career set new standards for excellence, inspiring generations of players to follow in his footsteps. As a coach and executive, he helped shape the game, mentoring young talent and contributing to the success of the Senators during their most successful period.
Johnson's legacy extends beyond baseball itself. He embodied the values of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship that are essential to any pursuit. His inspiring life story continues to captivate audiences today, reminding us all of the power of perseverance and determination in achieving our goals.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Walter Johnson's enduring popularity stems from his remarkable achievements on the field, combined with his kind and generous spirit off the field. As a baseball legend, he continues to be celebrated for his incredible pitching talent, his commitment to excellence, and his lasting impact on the game.
His life story serves as an inspiration to anyone seeking to achieve their goals, reminding us all that with hard work, determination, and a passion for our craft, we can accomplish anything we set our minds to.
Quotes by Walter Johnson
Can I throw harder than Joe Wood? Listen mister, no man alive can throw any harder than Smokey Joe Wood.
One man had been completely submerged in the boiling liquid which inundated the cabin, and in his removal to the deck, the skin had separated from the entire surface of his body. The unfortunate wretch was literally boiled alive, yet although his flesh parted from his bones, and his agonies were most intense, he survived and retained all his consciousness for several hours.
The beanball is one of the meanest things on Earth and no decent fellow would use it. The beanball is a potential murderer. If I were a batter and thought the pitcher really tried to bean me, I’d be inclined to wait for him outside the park with a baseball bat.
Well I can't rightly say (which player hit the ball hardest), but the ones (home runs by) Ruth hit got smaller quicker.
I was the greenest rookie that ever was. One evening I was standing out on the sidewalk when a stranger approached and said, 'You're famous already kid. See, they've named a hotel for you.' I looked across the street and sure enough, there was a big illuminated sign that read 'Johnson Hotel.' Well, do you know that I was so green that I actually believed the man!