The oldest of the four Nilsson brothers, Robert “Bob” Nilsson is widely regarded as one of the greatest relieving pitchers in the history of Australian domestic and national league baseball.

 

Although he never made it through the minor league system, Bob Nilsson was another Australian baseball pioneer, having signed a professional contract with Cincinnati Reds in 1978 and later going on to a stellar career in the original Australian Baseball League.

 

Starting with the ABL when the league was initiated in 1989, Bob Nilsson played with Gold Coast Clippers, Daikyo Dolphins and Brisbane Bandits during an eight-year career that gleaned a 34-25 record with 53 saves and an ERA of 3.54 over 194 games pitched.

 

Representing Australia at the highest level – including the Intercontinental Cup – Bob Nilsson later went on to coach at national state and club level, including a stint with the progressive Pine Hills Lightning Baseball Club.

 

Bob Nilsson spoke recently with fellow Queenslander and Australian Baseball Alumni official Grant McDonald.