Who Is Harmon Killebrew? Age, Biography and Wiki
Harmon Killebrew, a celebrated American baseball legend, was born on June 29, 1936. He made a significant mark in Major League Baseball (MLB) and is best known for his powerful hitting as a first baseman and outfielder. Killebrew played for the Minnesota Twins and the Kansas City Royals, earning a reputation as one of the game's great sluggers. Sadly, he passed away on May 17, 2011, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of countless fans and the annals of baseball history.
| Occupation | Baseball Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 29, 1936 |
| Age | 74 Years |
| Birth Place | Payette, Idaho, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 17 May, 2011 |
| Died Place | Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S. |
Popularity
Harmon Killebrew's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During his playing days, Harmon Killebrew stood tall at 6 feet (183 cm) and weighed approximately 220 pounds (100 kg). Known for his formidable physique, Killebrew showcased exceptional strength, which contributed to his impressive career stats, including 573 home runs. Although he is no longer alive, his athletic stature remains influential in discussions about baseball power hitters.
Having played left field for the previous three years with a below-average throwing arm, the additional complication of Killebrew's knee surgery necessitated a move to the infield. For the remainder of his career, he played only 19 games in the outfield. He finished the 1964 season with a .270 batting average, 49 home runs, and 111 RBI; he led the AL in home runs for the third consecutive year.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Harmon Killebrew was married to his wife, Nita Killebrew, for several decades. Together, they shared a family that included four children. Killebrew was a dedicated family man, and his relationships were marked by love and commitment. As he dedicated much of his life to the sport, maintaining personal relationships was critical to balancing his career and family life.
and Katherine Pearl (May) Killebrew. His father, a painter and sheriff, was a member of an undefeated Millikin College football team who was later named an All-American under eventual Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Greasy Neale.
According to family legend, Harmon Killebrew's grandfather was the strongest man in the Union Army, winning every available heavyweight wrestling championship. Clayton encouraged Harmon and his brothers to stay active in various sports before his sudden death in 1953 at age 59.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Harmon Killebrew's net worth was estimated to be around $6 million. His earnings came from his long-standing baseball career, endorsements, and post-retirement engagements, including speaking events and appearances. Killebrew's financial legacy continues to resonate, especially with younger generations who admire his contributions to the sport.
Killebrew signed his contract under the bonus rule in effect at the time. Since he received a bonus of over $4,000 ($0 today), Major League Baseball rules required that he spend two full seasons on the major league roster.
He made his major league debut four days after signing and six days from his 18th birthday (becoming the youngest active player in the majors at the time), running for pinch-hitter Clyde Vollmer, who had been hit by a pitch with the bases loaded by Chicago White Sox starter Jack Harshman.
On August 23, 1954, Killebrew made his first start in the second game of a doubleheader against the Philadelphia Athletics, hitting two singles and a double as the Senators won, 10–3.
A year and one day after making his major league debut, Killebrew hit his first major league home run on June 24, 1955, in the fifth inning off Detroit Tigers starter Billy Hoeft, five days shy of his 19th birthday. In his first two seasons, Killebrew struck out 34 times in only 93 at bats, recording a .215 batting average with four home runs.
Killebrew also had defensive difficulties at third base, where he played behind veteran Eddie Yost.
Career, Business and Investments
Harmon Killebrew's illustrious career began in 1954 when he made his MLB debut. Over 22 seasons, he became synonymous with consistent power hitting, earning 13 All-Star selections and winning the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1969. After retiring, Killebrew remained involved in baseball through various initiatives, including coaching and philanthropy. He also ventured into business, including investments and partnerships within the sports community, which helped sustain his financial success even after his playing days were over.
Harmon Clayton Killebrew Jr. (June 29, 1936 – May 17, 2011), nicknamed "the Killer" and "Hammerin' Harmon", was an American professional baseball first baseman, third baseman, and left fielder. He spent most of his 22-year career in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Minnesota Twins.
A prolific power hitter, Killebrew had the fifth-most home runs in major league history at the time of his retirement. He was second only to Babe Ruth in American League (AL) home runs, and was the AL career leader in home runs by a right-handed batter. Killebrew was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984.
Social Network
Killebrew's legacy is celebrated on various social media platforms where fans and baseball enthusiasts pay tribute to his remarkable career. His family's social media presence continues to share cherished memories and milestones associated with his life. While he was not active on social media during his lifetime, his legacy thrives online through fan pages and tributes.
Education
Before his legendary career in baseball, Harmon Killebrew attended Payette High School in Idaho, where he showcased his exceptional athletic talent. His love for sports and dedication to his craft set the stage for his successful journey in professional baseball.
As a child, Killebrew played baseball at Walter Johnson Memorial Field, named after the Hall of Fame pitcher who spent part of his childhood in Idaho. He worked as a farmhand in his youth, lifting ten-gallon milk cans, each weighing about 95 lb.
Killebrew earned 12 letters in various sports and was named an All-American quarterback at Payette High School; the school retired his uniform number. He was offered an athletic scholarship by the University of Oregon, but declined the offer.
