Ron Taylor (baseball)

Canadian baseball player and physician

Ron Taylor in his baseball uniform

Ronald Wesley Taylor (born December 13, 1937) is a Canadian former professional baseball player and a physician. He played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres. After retiring from baseball, Taylor pursued a career in medicine and became a team physician for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Early life and education

Ron Taylor was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He attended Leaside High School in Toronto, where he excelled in sports, particularly baseball. Taylor went on to study at the University of Toronto, where he played for the university's baseball team and earned a degree in engineering.

Baseball career

Minor leagues

Taylor began his professional baseball career in the minor leagues. He was signed by the Cleveland Indians in 1956 and spent several years developing his skills in the minor league system. His performance as a pitcher caught the attention of major league scouts, leading to his debut in the MLB.

Major League Baseball

Taylor made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1962. He was known for his effective pitching style, which included a strong fastball and a reliable curveball. In 1963, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he became an integral part of the team's bullpen.

With the Cardinals, Taylor achieved significant success, including winning the World Series in 1964. He was a key relief pitcher during the series, helping the team secure the championship. Taylor continued to play for the Cardinals until 1965, when he was traded to the Houston Astros.

In 1966, Taylor joined the New York Mets, where he played a crucial role in the team's bullpen. He was part of the "Miracle Mets" team that won the World Series in 1969, marking a highlight in his baseball career. Taylor's performance in the postseason was instrumental in the Mets' success.

Taylor concluded his MLB career with the San Diego Padres in 1972. Over his career, he was known for his durability and effectiveness as a relief pitcher, compiling a respectable record and earning a reputation as a reliable player.

Medical career

After retiring from professional baseball, Taylor pursued a career in medicine. He returned to the University of Toronto to study medicine, eventually earning his medical degree. Taylor specialized in sports medicine, combining his passion for sports with his medical expertise.

Taylor became the team physician for the Toronto Blue Jays, where he applied his knowledge of sports injuries and athlete care. His unique background as a former professional athlete provided him with valuable insights into the needs and challenges faced by players.

Legacy

Ron Taylor is remembered not only for his contributions to baseball but also for his successful transition to a medical career. His dual achievements in sports and medicine serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the possibilities of pursuing multiple passions and careers.

Related pages

• List of Major League Baseball players from Canada
• Toronto Blue Jays
• World Series