Bucky Veil

Frederick William Veil

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 5' 10", Weight 165 lb.
• School Bucknell University
• High School Williamsport (PA) High School
• Debut April 19, 1903
• Final Game April 23, 1904
• Born August 2, 1881 in Tyrone, PA USA
• Died April 16, 1931 in Altoona, PA USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Bucky Veil was the first relief pitcher used in a World Series game, when he was called to the mound by Pittsburgh Pirates manager Fred Clarke to replace an ineffective Sam Leever to start the 2nd inning of Game 2 of the 1903 World Series. He only gave up one run in seven innings to the Boston Americans in what was the highlight of a short major league career during which he posted a record of 5-3 in regular season play. In spite of his valiant effort, the Pirates still lost the World Series game 3-0.

Veil was at Bucknell University at the same time as Christy Mathewson and Moose McCormick.

Under the name Fred Veil he won 21 games for the 1905 Columbus Senators. He played at least eight seasons in minor league and independent ball, and managed one year.

"Wilhelm, Falkenberg and Veil are working well. All these men have been recommended high­ly. . . Veil is the Bucknell College lad whom Jeems (sic) Sebring thinks has the goods." - from Sporting Life, March 28, 1903

"Veil comes from Christy Matthewson's 'varsity, and there are people who say Bucky is a better man than Matty when the latter first started on the road." - hype about Veil from Sporting Life, April 4, 1903

Related Sites

• Bucky Veil at the SABR Bio Project