From the Helmar T3 series, this elegant portrait depicts right-hander Tommy Bridges
of the Detroit Tigers in the smooth follow-through of his delivery. Artist Natalia Valiukevich
renders Bridges with painterly precision—the soft lavender sky and fading sunlight
create a tranquil yet dramatic backdrop to the poised figure in pinstripes. The composition
balances motion and stillness, with Valiukevich’s brushwork lending depth to the uniform’s folds
and warmth to the pitcher’s focused expression.

Tommy Bridges was one of Detroit’s most reliable pitchers during the 1930s, a mainstay
of the Tigers’ rotation during their championship years. A six-time All-Star, Bridges
helped lead Detroit to World Series titles in 1935 and 1945. Known for his sharp curveball
and calm control under pressure, he compiled 194 career victories, all with the Tigers,
and earned a reputation as one of the American League’s steadiest arms of his era.

Original watercolor painting by Natalia Valiukevich.