Jim Hughes (hugheji02)

James Robert Hughes

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 1", Weight 200 lb.

• Debut September 13, 1952
• Final Game August 27, 1957
• Born March 21, 1923 in Chicago, IL USA
• Died August 12, 2001 in Chicago, IL USA

BR page

Biographical Information

Pitcher Jim Hughes had two distinct careers as a fireman: the first on the baseball diamond, and later as an actual firefighter.

Hughes broke into the big leagues with the Brooklyn Dodgers late in the 1952 season and was a key member of their bullpen during the next three seasons. He led the National League with 24 saves and 60 appearances in 1954 and played in the World Series in 1953. Hughes pitched in Game 1 of the 53 Series, but did not appear again as the Dodgers lost to the Yankees in 6 games. On the same day of Game 4, Hughes' brother was fatally stabbed by his wife, who was 7 months pregnant at the time [1].

While with the Dodgers, he was a teammate and roommate of future Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda. In 1956, he was traded to his hometown Chicago Cubs, who sent him across town to the Chicago White Sox in 1957. An arm injury forced him to retire after just a handful of games with the Sox.

Prior to embarking on his baseball career, Hughes served in the Marines during World War II. After retiring as a player, he became a Chicago firefighter, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He served in the department for more than 20 years, retiring with the rank of captain. He died of a heart attack at age 78.

Notable Achievements

• NL Games Pitched Leader (1954)
• NL Saves Leader (1954)
• Won a World Series with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1955 (he did not play in the World Series)