Paul Splittorff

Paul Splittorff - Kansas City Royals - 1980

Paul Splittorff (October 8, 1946 – May 25, 2011) was an American professional baseball player who pitched in the Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Kansas City Royals from 1970 to 1984. Born in Evansville, Indiana, Splittorff was known for his calm demeanor on the mound and his contributions to the Royals' pitching staff during his career. He became the franchise's all-time leader in wins, a record he held for many years.

Early Life and Education

Paul Splittorff was born in Evansville, Indiana, and grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He attended Arlington High School, where he excelled in baseball. After high school, he went on to pitch for Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, showcasing his talent and drawing attention from major league scouts.

Professional Career

Splittorff was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 25th round of the 1968 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut on September 23, 1970, and quickly established himself as a reliable starter for the Royals. Over his 15-year career, all with Kansas City, Splittorff accumulated a record of 166-143, with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.81 and 1,057 strikeouts. His best season came in 1973 when he posted a 20-11 record, becoming the first 20-game winner in Royals history.

Splittorff's pitching style was not overpowering, but he was known for his excellent control and ability to outthink hitters. He played a key role in the Royals' success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, including the team's first-ever American League Championship Series (ALCS) appearances and their first World Series appearance in 1980.

Post-Playing Career

After retiring from playing, Splittorff transitioned into broadcasting, serving as a color commentator for the Royals on both television and radio. His insights into the game and his connection to the Royals' fanbase made him a beloved figure in Kansas City sports broadcasting.

Death

Paul Splittorff passed away on May 25, 2011, after battling melanoma and oral cancer. His death was a significant loss to the Kansas City Royals organization and its fans. The team honored his legacy by wearing a patch with his number, 34, for the remainder of the 2011 season.

Legacy

Paul Splittorff's impact on the Kansas City Royals is immeasurable. As the franchise's all-time leader in wins for many years, he set a standard for excellence and consistency on the mound. His contributions to the team's early successes helped establish the Royals as a competitive force in the American League. Splittorff's legacy is also preserved through his work in broadcasting, where he continued to share his love and knowledge of the game with fans.