Nolan Ryan

(Baseball Hall of Fame)

Nolan Ryan, arguably the best pitcher that ever lived, is my hero. He is my hero for many reasons. He played 27 years in the MLB (Major League Baseball), which is a very long time. He was a pitcher for the New York Mets, California Angels, Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers. He is most well known  for his time with the Rangers. He also broke many records during his long-spanning career. He threw seven no-hitters during his time as a pitcher which is amazing. He is the best pitcher who ever lived.

Nolan wasn't just a great pitcher, he was also intimidating. His pitches could reach 100 miles per hour, which is very fast, from 60.5 feet away. If that hit you, believe me that would hurt. One time he hit a young player named Robin Ventura, but he hit him with a curve ball so it didn't hurt that much. When Robin Ventura was hit, he charged the mound and 46-year old Nolan fought back. That’s another reason Nolan is my hero: because he is fearless. However, "Ryan and Ventura reunited with no hard feelings at a game in 2012 (ESPN)."

(Nolan Ryan Foundation)

Nolan Ryan is a great man on and off the field. He is also a very generous man. He has put together a foundation that is called the Nolan Ryan Foundation that benefits youth, education and community development. The first task the foundation took on was to build the Nolan Ryan Center, which was given to Alvin Community College. They use the center for education.

Nolan Ryan is my hero for many reasons. He is one of the best pitchers to ever live. He is fearless and intimidating but he is also a very generous person. I hope other people see him as a hero because I believe he has the qualities to be a hero to anyone. It doesn’t matter if you are a baseball fan or not. Nolan Ryan is my hero and I hope he is yours.