TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/3/2022 | Received: 7/25/2022 | 82 Days
- ’81 Fleer, ’82 Fleer, ’91 Line Drive
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Joseph Paul Pettini, born on January 26, 1955, in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a testament to perseverance in professional baseball. Though undrafted, his dedication led him from the minor leagues to the Major Leagues and eventually to coaching roles that culminated in two World Series championships.
Pettini’s baseball journey began at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, where he showcased his durability by starting 196 consecutive games. Despite this feat, he went undrafted but was signed by the Montreal Expos in 1977. In 1980, he was traded to the San Francisco Giants, making his MLB debut on July 10 of that year. Over four seasons (1980–1983) with the Giants, Pettini played as a utility infielder, covering second base, third base, and shortstop. He concluded his playing career with a .203 batting average, one home run, and 20 RBIs over 188 games.
After retiring as a player, Pettini joined the St. Louis Cardinals organization in 1984, initially playing for their Triple-A affiliate, the Louisville Redbirds. He transitioned to coaching in 1989, managing various minor league teams, including the Hamilton Redbirds, St. Petersburg Cardinals, Arkansas Travelers, and Louisville Redbirds. Notably, he led the Louisville Redbirds to the 1995 American Association championship.
In 2002, Pettini was appointed as the bench coach for the St. Louis Cardinals under manager Tony La Russa. In this role, he was instrumental in organizing pregame routines, infield positioning, and game strategy. His tenure saw the Cardinals clinch two World Series titles in 2006 and 2011.
Following La Russa’s retirement, Pettini joined the Houston Astros as their bench coach in 2012, reuniting with former colleague Brad Mills. However, his stint with the Astros was brief, concluding after the 2012 season.
Pettini and his wife, Barbara, married in 1981 and have two children. They reside in Bethany, West Virginia. Known for his strategic acumen and dedication, Pettini’s journey from an undrafted player to a two-time World Series champion coach serves as an inspiration in the baseball community.
Joe Pettini’s career exemplifies the impact of determination and adaptability in professional sports. His contributions, both on the field and from the dugout, have left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball.
The Score on Joe Pettini – 6.5
Joe has a really fun signature. I just wish you could see it better in these returns. I think that the black on blank in at least two of these cards, and black on dark in the others just don’t do him any favors. But I think his signature is as fun as his ‘stache.
Thanks Mr Pettini! I’m giving this return a 6.5 overall.
This isn’t my first return from him. To see the first return, check out my post from April 2021.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.