Bud Black

Harry Ralston "Bud" Black is a prominent figure in Major League Baseball (MLB), having held a variety of roles throughout his career. Black was a key player in the Kansas City Royals' rotation in the early 1980s, serving as the Opening Day starter multiple times. His versatility was on display during the 1985 postseason, where he both started and relieved, contributing to the Royals' World Series win that year. Black's prowess as a starting pitcher was evidenced throughout his career by his multiple complete games and shutouts. After transitioning teams several times, he demonstrated adaptability by serving as both a starter and reliever for the Cleveland Indians and San Francisco Giants.

In addition to his playing career, Black has left a significant mark on MLB as a coach and manager. He served as the pitching coach for the Anaheim Angels from 2000 to 2006, during which time the team won the World Series in 2002. Black then took on the role of manager for the San Diego Padres from 2007 to 2015, a tenure highlighted by his receipt of the National League Manager of the Year Award in 2010. In November 2016, Black was named manager of the Colorado Rockies, a role he held until May 2025. Black's tenure with the Rockies was marked by several milestones. He led the team to the playoffs in 2017 and 2018, and achieved his 1,000th managerial win on April 10, 2022.