Curt Schilling
The fierce ace who anchored the Diamondbacks' first World Series championship run.
Acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies on July 26, 2000, mid-season, Curt Schilling immediately paired with Randy Johnson to form one of baseball's most dominant pitching duos during the club's early years. As a key member of the franchise's first championship team, his time on the mound defined the competitive streak that drove their 2001 World Series title.
- Years with Club
- 2000-2003
Lore & Background
The defining moment of his Diamondbacks career came during the 2001 playoffs. Schilling delivered legendary performances while managing significant injury, pitching through pain to advance the team toward the World Series. His willingness to sacrifice his body for the win resonated deeply with fans in Phoenix and beyond.
In Their Own Story
The stadium lights hummed over Chase Field as the ninth inning approached. Schilling wiped sweat from his brow, gripping the mound dirt with a focus that silenced the crowd. He knew this pitch mattered more than any statistic. With a deep breath, he wound up, delivering the slider that sealed another victory for the Diamondbacks.
Reader's Guide
Curt Schilling stands as one of the most formidable pitchers in franchise history, anchoring the rotation during the club's formative championship years. Arriving from Philadelphia via trade in late 1999, he immediately formed a terrifying duo with Randy Johnson that defined the early 2000s era. His style was aggressive and physically imposing, relying on a devastating slider and sheer mental toughness to dominate opposing lineups. Schilling's crowning achievement remains his pivotal role in securing the franchise's first World Series title in 2001. He delivered clutch performances throughout the postseason, including legendary outings where he pitched through significant injury to keep Arizona alive against Atlanta. This resilience cemented his status as a warrior among fans and teammates alike. Beyond the trophy case, Schilling left an indelible mark on the organization's culture of competitiveness. His jersey number 35 was eventually retired by the club, honoring his contributions alongside other legends. For Diamondbacks supporters, he represents the grit required to win a championship in a new league, forever linking his name with the team's greatest victory.
Did You Know?
- He was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies on July 26, 2000, mid-season.
- Schilling pitched through a torn tendon during the 2001 NLCS to help secure the pennant.
- His jersey number 35 is not retired by the Arizona Diamondbacks organization.
- He formed a legendary starting rotation partnership with Randy Johnson.