TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/21/2022 | Received: 6/7/2022 | 16 Days
- ’75 Topps, ’76 Topps (2), ’77 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Ed Halicki’s name may not immediately ring a bell for casual baseball fans, but those who followed Major League Baseball in the 1970s know him as a talented pitcher who delivered memorable performances during his career. Best remembered for his stunning no-hitter, Halicki’s journey in professional baseball is a tale of perseverance, skill, and determination.
Edward Louis Halicki was born on October 4, 1950, in Kearny, New Jersey. Growing up in a blue-collar town, Halicki developed a passion for baseball early on, honing his skills in local leagues. His tall, lanky frame—eventually reaching 6’7”—made him an imposing figure on the mound. After excelling in high school, Halicki attended Monmouth College (now Monmouth University), where he further developed as a pitcher. His impressive performances drew the attention of MLB scouts, and in 1972, he was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 24th round of the MLB Draft.
Halicki made his MLB debut with the San Francisco Giants on July 8, 1974, and quickly established himself as a reliable arm in the team’s rotation. His height and overhand delivery made his pitches difficult for hitters to track, and he became known for his strong fastball and sharp breaking ball.
Halicki’s career-defining moment came on August 24, 1975, in a game against the New York Mets at Candlestick Park. On that day, Halicki achieved baseball immortality by pitching a no-hitter, leading the Giants to a 6-0 victory. Striking out 10 batters and walking just two, Halicki’s performance remains one of the most celebrated in Giants history. The no-hitter was a high point in a career that spanned seven seasons. Halicki’s best year came in 1977, when he posted a 16-12 record with a 3.32 ERA and 168 strikeouts. Over his career, he played exclusively for the Giants until his final season in 1980, when he briefly pitched for the California Angels.
Halicki retired with a career record of 55-66, a 3.62 ERA, and 707 strikeouts over 1,063 innings pitched.
After retiring from professional baseball, Halicki returned to his home state of New Jersey and transitioned into a successful career in business. Though he left the spotlight of Major League Baseball, he remained connected to the game, participating in alumni events and mentoring young players.
Halicki’s no-hitter remains a cherished memory for Giants fans and a defining moment in the franchise’s history. His contributions to the team during the mid-1970s helped solidify the Giants’ pitching staff during a challenging era for the organization.
Ed Halicki’s baseball career is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and seizing the moment. While his time in the majors didn’t bring him widespread fame, his no-hitter and contributions to the Giants’ pitching staff have earned him a lasting place in the annals of baseball history.
Halicki’s journey from a small-town kid in New Jersey to a professional pitcher highlights the power of determination and passion for the game. His life after baseball has been equally inspiring, as he continues to contribute to his community and the sport he loves.
Ed Halicki may not have a plaque in Cooperstown, but his legacy as a Giant who shined bright on the mound endures—a reminder that even in a game filled with legends, every player has the chance to create unforgettable moments.
The Score on Ed Halicki – 7.0
Ed has an autograph that might be on the “chicken scratch” side of the spectrum for signatures. I don’t say that in that you can’t really read it, because I think you can identify it as his name. But I would say that the style of signature is like a “scratch”. I think my favorite of this bunch is the 1976 Topps cards.
Thanks Mr. Halicki! I’m giving this return a 7 overall.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.