Bill Lee made quite the impression during his time in the majors. The former All Star was beloved by Boston Red Sox fans for his quirky personality and humor as he transcended the game. Although he retired from the majors in 1982, Lee has continued to be active in adult leagues and even made a pair of appearances in independent ball despite being in his 60s.
Lee is continuing to show that age is just a number. He has become a part of the Savannah Bananas, a team known for quirky rules and their style of “Banana Ball.” Lee made another appearance for the Bananas recently, coming out of the stands with a beer in hand to pitch.
Boston Red Sox legend Bill Lee still taking the mound
He is now 75 years old. The velocity is not quite the same. It takes Lee a little longer to stretch out and get ready to pitch. But he is still going out there, giving it everything he has and delighting the crowd as he does so.
Velocity also does not matter when one throws the ‘Leephus.’ Lee’s infamous eephus pitch is still getting batters out, the lack of velocity not making any difference in that case. In fact, Lee was even able to strike out an opposing batter with his Leephus, an impressive feat for anyone coming out of the stands with a beer in hand.
At this point, Lee has made three appearances for the Bananas, each of which have lasted an inning. He has allowed three runs, although only one was earned. He said that the league is roughly the equivalent of A-ball, with some players that could probably handle Double-A.
It is hard to say how long Lee will keep going, at least with the Bananas. However, he is enjoying himself, and that is really what matters. Anything that allows the Leephus to be seen by a new generation of fans has to be a positive.
Former Boston Red Sox star Bill Lee is still pitching at 75 years old. He is, fittingly, getting outs for the Savannah Bananas, a team after his own heart.