Jim Leyland
| Birthdate | 12/15/1944 |
| Death Date | |
| Debut Year | 1986 |
| Year of Induction | |
| Teams | Marlins, Pirates, Rockies, Tigers |
| Position | Manager |
Three-time Manager of the Year Jim Leyland is well within Hall of Fame consideration with 1,769 wins and the 1997 World Series triumph.
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Jim Leyland is commended for second place finish in 1988
Jim Leyland is commended for second place finish in 1988
After Chuck Tanner’s “We Are Family” Pirates won the World Series in 1979, the Pittsburgh franchise stumbled. Over the next nine seasons the team finished in fourth place or lower six times.
When Tanner was fired after consecutive last place finishes in ’84 and ’85, the Pirates turned to 41-year old Jim Leyland. By 1988 Pittsburgh had the look of a contender, finishing second to the 100-win Mets. Two seasons later, Leyland guided the club to the first of three consecutive Eastern Division crowns.
In the collection is a plaque given to Leyland recognizing him for turning the team around. Dated December 14, 1988, the ornate plaque is signed by Leyland toward the top.
Leyland managed a total of 22 big league seasons, 11 in Pittsburgh. The skipper guided his teams to 1,726 wins, three league championships and one World Series title. His accomplishments put him in the Cooperstown conversation.
Jim Leyland was Pittsburgh Man of the Year in 1988
Jim Leyland was Pittsburgh Man of the Year in 1988
In the collection is this plaque presented to Pirates manager Jim Leyland after the 1988 season. The Pirates excited Pittsburgh with their second-place finish in the National League’s Eastern Division. No team since the 1979 championship club finished higher than the ’88 club.
For his efforts as manager, Leyland was named Pittsburgh’s Man of the Year. Before he left the Pirates, Leyland would guide them to three consecutive Eastern Division crown. He won the Manager of the Year Award three times – twice in the NL and once in the AL.
His success might someday earn him a place in Cooperstown.
Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce salutes Jim Leyland, the 1990 NL Manager of the Year
Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce salutes Jim Leyland, the 1990 NL Manager of the Year
Jim Leyland guided the Pittsburgh Pirates to the National League East crown in 1990. The roster featured first-time MVP Barry Bonds and Cy Young winner Doug Drabek. For his efforts, Leyland was received his first Manager of the Year Award.
In the collection is a plaque presented to Leyland by the Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce saluting Leyland for winning the award. It features a picture of a young Leyland who has affixed his signature near the bottom on the plaque. With two pennants in the AL and a World Series championship in the NL, Leyland is a serious candidate for Cooperstown.
Earl Weaver won one World Series title, 1970, and he’s in. Wilbert Robinson, HOF, won 1,399, lost 1,398, .500. He’s in. Can’t see how Leyland would not have a shot for Cooperstown.