While Edward Charles "Whitey" Ford is primarily celebrated for his legendary pitching career with the New York Yankees, his life extended far beyond the baseball diamond. From his military service during the Korean War to his unique nicknames and even a foray into the restaurant business, Ford's experiences off the field offer a broader perspective on the man known as "The Chairman of the Board." These aspects of his life reveal a personality that
was both disciplined and, at times, playful, contributing to his enduring appeal.
Military Service and Nicknames
Before solidifying his place as a baseball icon, Whitey Ford answered the call to duty during the Korean War era. He served in the United States Army in 1951 and 1952, a period that temporarily interrupted his burgeoning Major League Baseball career. This commitment to his country highlights a facet of his character beyond his athletic prowess. Upon his return to the Yankees for the 1953 season, he seamlessly rejoined the team, picking up where he left off and continuing his path to greatness.
Ford was known by two prominent nicknames: "Whitey" and "The Chairman of the Board." The former, "Whitey," was given to him while he was still in the minor leagues, a simple descriptor for his light blond hair. The latter, "The Chairman of the Board," reflected his calm and commanding presence on the pitcher's mound, particularly in high-pressure situations. He was also known as "Slick," a nickname bestowed upon him, Billy Martin, and Mickey Mantle by their manager, Casey Stengel, who humorously referred to them as "Whiskey Slicks." These nicknames offer a glimpse into his personality and the way he was perceived by his teammates and management.
Managerial Influence and Personal Habits
Ford's career trajectory was not solely determined by his talent but also by the strategic decisions of his managers. Casey Stengel, recognizing Ford as his top pitching asset, often reserved him for crucial games against formidable opponents like the Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox. This approach, while strategic, meant Ford only exceeded 30 starts once in his nine seasons under Stengel. However, when Ralph Houk became manager in 1961, he promised Ford a consistent pitching schedule every fourth day, leading to a career-high 39 starts that year and his Cy Young Award-winning season.
Beyond the strategic aspects of his career, Ford also made personal choices that impacted his health and performance. In May 1963, after pitching a shutout, Ford publicly announced that he had given up smoking. He famously quipped, "My doctor told me that whenever I think of smoking, I should think of a bus starting up and blowing the exhaust in my face." This anecdote reveals a disciplined side to Ford, willing to make significant lifestyle changes for his well-being, even if it was a decision he made later in his career.
Post-Playing Ventures and Recognition
After retiring from baseball, Ford explored other avenues, including a venture into the hospitality industry. In 2002, he opened "Whitey Ford's Cafe," a sports-themed restaurant and bar located next to Roosevelt Field Mall in Garden City, New York. The establishment was a tribute to his illustrious career, featuring a replica of the Yankee Stadium facade, bar stools displaying uniform numbers of Yankee legends, and widescreen televisions throughout. The main dining area boasted a panoramic display of Yankee Stadium from the 1950s, capturing a moment with Ford pitching and Mickey Mantle in center field. Even the servers wore Yankees road uniforms with Ford's No. 16. Although the cafe operated for less than a year, it demonstrated Ford's continued connection to his baseball legacy and his willingness to engage with fans in new ways. As of 2015, Ford, then 86, split his time between his homes in Long Island and Florida, enjoying a well-deserved retirement after a life filled with significant achievements both on and off the baseball field.
