On Mark 'The Bird' Fidrych's birthday, let's recall his Monday Night Baseball celebration in '76

Mark 'The Bird' Fidrych, who passed away in 2009, would've turned 59 on Wednesday. In addition to his quirky mound maneuvers and luscious golden locks, The Bird is remembered for one of baseball history's more intriguing pitching performances - and postgame celebrations -- against the Yankees in 1976.

After going the distance in a Tigers' 5-1 win, Fidrych proceeded to shake hands with every player/grounds crew member/human being within reach. He also cried and bowed to the adoring Detroit crowd multiple times. Fidrych moved to 8-1 in 11 career starts with the victory, but it was the first time most of the country had seem him perform, antics and all, on national TV.

Fidrych went on to start the All-Star game and win AL Rookie of the Year honors that season (19-9, 2.34 ERA), but he suffered arm trouble in 1977 and ultimately made just 58 career big league appearances.