Ron Stead grew up in Toronto close to Maple Leaf Stadium, where he struck up a friendship with Leafs’ trainer, Bill Smith. Stead acted as the Leafs’ mascot in 1946, before becoming batboy the following year. He also honed his pitching skills by tossing batting practice. As his arm strengthened, he would sign a playing contract with his employer. The Leafs sent him to the Florida State League, where he recorded 17 wins and a sparkling 2.43 ERA for Gainesville in 1957.

Read more HERE.