The Pecan Park Eagle

The late Joe Niekro was one of the great "Dukes of the Astrodome Diamond." With the wobbler stuff that Joe served up, there was no way most hitters were going to win the timing/surprise battle between batter and pitcher.

The True Duke of the Diamond

by Bill McCurdy

Pitchers may boil up –  a hot bitter brew,

With heat that both curves – and curves that will screw.

And they can’t be afraid – to hold back the knuckle,

On weavers and wobblers – that jitter and buckle.

And if they are smart – they will hammer the timing,

Of the batter’s next swing – it’s all so subliming.

Give him the grease ball – when he’s waiting for eighty

Then watch him show early – for the date-dressing lady.

And in those tough games – when your hand hits the dryness,

It may be the time – for some royal wryness.

Just moisten those fingers – before you deliver,

And watch the ball dance weird – from slip-slide to slivver.

Up the ladder – in and out,

With balls that move – on hitter’s doubt,

Is really all – your job’s about.

Just watch ’em come – and get ’em out,

By ground – or air – or the strike out route.

The batter has the club – but the pitcher has the clout.