Nicknamed “Knucksie” for his fluttering knuckleball, Phil Niekro twice led the National League in wins and propelled Atlanta to the National League West title in 1969, when he recorded 23 victories, 21 complete games and a 2.57 ERA. A five-time All-Star, he no-hit the Padres on August 5, 1973. Niekro, who pitched into his late forties, was extremely loyal to the second division Braves; something that earned him the admiration of fans and teammates.