Jim Rooker
From BR Bullpen
James Phillip Rooker
- Bats Right, Throws Left
- Height 6' 0", Weight 201 lb.
- Debut June 30, 1968
- Final Game May 2, 1980
- Born September 23, 1942 in Lakeview, OR USA
[edit] Biographical Information
Jim Rooker started his career as an outfielder. He led the New York-Penn League with 13 3B in 1961 and the Northern League with 11 3B in 1963. He also seemed to be a pretty good defensive player, leading the NYP League in putouts in 1961 and 1962 (183 and 214) and fielding average in 1961 (.958) and leading his league in assists all three years (17, 23, 20). By 1965 he was a full-time pitcher. In 1968, he led the AAA International League in strikeouts with 206.
Was an announcer for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1981 to 1993. In 1989, when the team was winning 10-0 in the first inning against Philadelphia, Rooker said he would walk home if the Pirates lost. The Phillies came back to win 15-11. Rooker didn't walk home following the game - but after the season he did walk from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and earned $81,000 in charity for a children's hospital in the process.
After a brief broadcasting run at ESPN, Jim currently spends time at his tavern located in Ambridge, PA, Rooks East Side Saloon.
A Democrat, Rooker ran once for state representative and once for Congress, but lost both races.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 15 Wins Seasons: 2 (1974 & 1976)
- 200 Innings Pitched Seasons: 3 (1970, 1974 & 1977)
- Won a World Series with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1979
