[Lefty Noob]

According to the Associated Press, "Former major league pitcher Joe Niekro, Houston's career victory leader, died Friday, Astros president Tal Smith said. He was 61... The two-time 20-game winner suffered a brain aneurysm Thursday and was taken to South Florida Baptist Hospital in nearby Plant City, where he lived. He later was transferred to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he died."

The Neikro's were born not far from where I live, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, and they've always been huge favorites around here because of their ties to this area. He'll definitely be missed. Your thoughts on Niekro's life and career?

[Gotham Dark Knight]

Originally Posted by Lefty Noob

According to the Associated Press, "Former major league pitcher Joe Niekro, Houston's career victory leader, died Friday, Astros president Tal Smith said. He was 61... The two-time 20-game winner suffered a brain aneurysm Thursday and was taken to South Florida Baptist Hospital in nearby Plant City, where he lived. He later was transferred to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he died."

The Neikro's were born not far from where I live, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, and they've always been huge favorites around here because of their ties to this area. He'll definitely be missed. Your thoughts on Niekro's life and career?

What!...shocker...damn...players I grew up with are dying...never thought much of him as a pitcher...he was a middle of the staff guy...over shadowed by his brother....and too young to die really.

[ThePundit]

It's a shame...I remember when the nail file or sandpaper came flying out of his pocket on the mound...He's also Lance Neikro's father if I'm not mistaken.

[MJHMarc]

Joe Niekro was an inspirational character on the mound and off the field.

Sad to see him go...

[chsbletz]

Unlike his brother Phil, Joe didn't have big-time talent. He was a very intelligent pitcher who threw a fair number of "junk" pitches. He probably maximized his talents as much as anyone you could name.

[legend]

Joe Niekro won 20 games tiwce, and hit the only homer of his career off of.... his brother Phil!

[Gotham Dark Knight]

Originally Posted by legend

Joe Niekro won 20 games tiwce, and hit the only homer of his career off of.... his brother Phil!

Poetic Justice for having to take a back seat to him...or maybe Phil grooved a fat pitch his way.

[MJHMarc]

Not the same thing applies in the Roger Clemens family.

Didn't the Rocket almost blast his fastball into his son during batting practice?