Dick Brubaker (1933–2026)
Born on May 28, 1933, in Kewanee, Illinois, to Frank and Eloise Brubaker, Dick Brubaker became one of the most respected and accomplished pitchers in Men’s Fast Pitch softball. An Illinois native, Brubaker made his first appearance at a USA Softball National Championship at the age of 36 and quickly established himself as one of the game’s premier pitchers.
A staple of the Home Savings & Loan squad for 13 years, Brubaker was known for his lightning-fast delivery, trademark grunt and devastating drop ball that baffled hitters throughout his career. He compiled an outstanding 337-63 record with a remarkable 0.63 earned run average while earning USA Softball All-American honors four times. His teams finished runner-up at the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship on five occasions, highlighting his consistent excellence in the circle.
Brubaker’s success also extended to the international stage, where he represented the United States on the 1972 USA Softball Men’s National Team. He played a key role in helping the team earn a silver medal at the 1972 WBSC Men’s World Championship, posting a 4-1 record with a 0.18 ERA while contributing offensively with a .333 batting average.
In recognition of his outstanding career and contributions to the sport, Brubaker was inducted into the USA Softball Hall of Fame in 2018, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
