Born in Refugio, Texas, in 1947, pitcher Nolan Ryan is baseball's all-time leader in strikeouts with over 5,000 during his great career. The right-hander won over 300 games and pitched an unbeaten seven no-hitters in his record. Nolan played all positions during 28 major league seasons (1966--93) with he New York Mets, California Angels, Houston Astros, and Texas Rangers.

In addition to his prowess as a pitcher, Nolan Ryan has always maintained the highest reputation as a man of irreproachable character and integrity. Inspite of the millions of dollars Ryan has made from both his product endorsements and salary, he has always remained one of the last of the old-time players, oblivious to the big-money contracts, and with an eye only on the well-pitched game.

Bibliography: The Cambridge Dictionary of American Biography, edited by J S. Bowmen. Copyright © 1995 Cambridge University Press.