Randy Poffo

Randy Poffo was born November 15, 1952 in Columbus, Ohio. His father, Angelo was a professional wrestler in the 1950’s and 60’s. Angelo was featured on an episode of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not for his ability to do sit-ups for hours on end. Randy would go on to graduate from Downer Grove North High School in Illinois. Quickly after his graduation, the St. Louis Cardinals Organization would sign him as a catcher.Poffo was placed in the minor leagues where he would spend most of his days playing outfield and developing in with the Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds farm systems. He had an at-home training technique where he’d swing a bat at a hanging tire to strengthen his hands and ensure he used his legs when swinging. This exercise was picked up by his teammate/roommate, and eventual major-leaguer, Larry Herndon. In a collision at home plate, Randy injured his right shoulder; his natural throwing shoulder. No big deal, he learned to throw with his left instead. In 4 minor league seasons, he hit .254 with 16 home runs and 129 RBIs.