Celebrating William 'Candy' Cummings: The Birth of a Baseball Legend

The Birth of William 'Candy' Cummings

Candy Cummings: A Legend in the Making

On April 18, 1848, William "Candy" Cummings was born in Ware, Massachusetts. From an early age, Candy showed a passion for baseball that would lead him to become one of the most influential figures in the sport. His journey began in Ware, where he honed his skills on the local diamond, setting the stage for his remarkable career.

The Impact of Cummings' Birth

The birth of Candy Cummings marked not just the arrival of a player but also the dawn of a significant evolution in baseball. As Cummings grew older, he would go on to innovate pitching techniques that would change the game forever.

Innovator of the Curveball

Candy Cummings and the Birth of the Curveball

Cummings is widely credited with creating the curveball, a pitch that would add a new dimension to the game. This revolutionary break in the ball's trajectory confounded hitters and became a staple of pitchers everywhere. Cummings introduced this technique during his time in the major leagues, showcasing it at the highest level of competition.

The Legacy of Candy Cummings

Throughout his career, Candy Cummings made a lasting impact not only as a player but also as a mentor to younger pitchers. His techniques and strategies would inspire generations of baseball players, solidifying his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame when he was inducted, immortalizing his contributions to the sport.

Fun Fact

A Sweet Nickname

Candy Cummings earned his sweet nickname due to his family’s candy business, but it stuck because of his delightful personality and exceptional talent on the field.