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United States Jim Kaat has transitioned from a record-setting MLB pitcher to an award-winning sportscaster and author, sharing insights from his extensive career in baseball.
Gravitas Ventures acquired 'Kitty To Cooperstown,' a documentary about Jim 'Kitty' Kaat.
Kaat worked as a sportscaster for MLB Network from its inception in 2009 until August 2022, after a brief retirement in 2006. He called Pool D for the 2009 World Baseball Classic in Puerto Rico and games for NESN in 2009.
Hired as a Special Assistant in January 2018 to assist Twins president Dave St. Peter in business, marketing, and community initiatives.
James Lee “Jim” Kaat, nicknamed “Kitty,” was born on November 7, 1938, in Zeeland, Michigan, the youngest of four children. He first showcased his athletic talent in basketball and baseball during his high school years in Zeeland. Kaat then attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, pitching for the Flying Dutchmen baseball team before being signed by the Washington Senators as an amateur free agent in 1957. His professional baseball career began with minor league stints in 1957 and 1958, leading to his Major League debut in 1959 with the Washington Senators.
Kaat became a permanent fixture in the Major Leagues when his team relocated to become the Minnesota Twins in 1961. Over a record 25-year career, he played for several teams, including the Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins (1959–1973), Chicago White Sox (1973–1975), Philadelphia Phillies (1976–1979), New York Yankees (1979–1980), and St. Louis Cardinals (1980–1983). A left-handed pitcher, he was recognized as an All-Star three times (1962, 1966, 1975) and earned a then-record 16 consecutive Gold Glove Awards for his defensive prowess from 1962 to 1977. His best season was in 1966, leading the American League with 25 wins and 19 complete games, and earning the American League Pitcher of the Year by The Sporting News. In 1982, Kaat achieved a World Series championship with the St. Louis Cardinals, marking a significant milestone.
Following his playing career, Kaat transitioned into broadcasting, beginning with a short period as a pitching coach for the Cincinnati Reds. He developed a long and distinguished career as a sportscaster, working for the New York Yankees, Minnesota Twins, CBS, ESPN, ABC, and MLB Network, where he earned multiple Emmy Awards for his commentary. In 2022, Jim Kaat was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Golden Days Era Committee, a fitting recognition of his contributions to the sport. He also received the honor of having his number 36 retired by the Minnesota Twins in the same year, solidifying his legacy within the organization and baseball.
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