Aug. 22, 2005

EVANSTON, Ill. - Former major league pitcher and current Northwestern pitching coach Tim Stoddard will show off his singing abilities tonight at Wrigley Field. The former fire-baller will thrill the Friendly Confines with his rendition of "Take Me Out to The Ballgame" in tonight's game against the Atlanta Braves.

Stoddard, who will begin his 13th season with the Wildcats next February, holds the unique distinction of playing for a World Series champion and an NCAA men's basketball champion. Under his tutelage, NU claimed its first-ever Big Ten ERA title in 1995 with a 3.08 ERA in conference games. In addition, 10 of his pitchers have been selected in the Major League free agent draft--Brad Niedermaier (Twins) and Brian Cummins (Tigers) in 1995, Chad Schroeder (Tigers) in 1996, Josh Levey (Cardinals) in 1997, John Seaman (Marlins) in 1998, Phil Rosengren (Indians) in 1999,Dan Padgett (Giants) in 2000), Michael Nall (Phillies) in 2001, Gabe Ribas (San Diego) in 2002 and most recently J.A. Happ (Phillies) in 2004. Also in 2002, Zach Schara was signed as a free agent by the Texas Rangers.

A native of East Chicago, Ind., Stoddard pitched in the major leagues from 1975-88. He played with the Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and New York Yankees. Working mostly in relief, Stoddard compiled a 41-35 career record with a 3.95 ERA, 582 strikeouts and 76 saves in 485 games. The right-hander played in the 1979 World Series with the Orioles and was the winning pitcher in Game 4. He also was a member of the 1983 World Champion Orioles and the 1984 National League East champion Cubs.

Stoddard attended North Carolina State from 1971-75, playing baseball and basketball. He was a starting forward for the Wolfpack's 1974 national basketball championship team and helped N.C. State win consecutive ACC baseball titles from 1973-75.

Stoddard, 51, resides in Rolling Meadows, Ill. He has three daughters: Laura, 27, Anne, 25, and Ellen, 20.