His father had suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed, so that he could only throw underhand when playing catch with his son.

Author Michael Lewis speculates that memories of his father's throwing motion may have contributed to the development of Bradford's pitching style.

[2] Unlike most players who become major leaguers, he had not exhibited outstanding athletic talent through the early years of high school.

[3] But his high school coach suggested he try sidearm pitching after learning some tips about the approach from a professional player.

[12] Bradford, on the disabled list since undergoing lower back surgery March 7, was activated after the All-Star break.

On December 27, 2005, Bradford signed a one-year, $1.4 million contract with the New York Mets, where he was reunited with Rick Peterson, his pitching coach from the Athletics.

[16] With a lot of postseason experience under his belt, Bradford shone in the 2008 playoffs and played a big part in Tampa Bay's World Series run.

[9] Bradford remained with the Rays into 2009; however, he began the season on the disabled list after injuring his elbow in spring training.

[9] Bradford was a finesse pitcher who specialized in pitching to contact, posting low strikeout and walk rates.