There has never been an athlete quite like Mark "The Bird" Fidrych. 

Despite only playing in the major leagues for five seasons, (and only two of those consistently), Fidrych managed to capture the hearts of fans in Detroit, and around the country, in a way few athletes ever have. 

From the moment he made his debut in 1976, Fidrych was different. Talking to the ball, pacing around the infield, and obsessively manicuring the pitcher's mound were only a few of his regular antics. But if you play well fans will love you, and they loved Fidrych.

Fidrych won 19 games and rookie of the year in 1976, culminating in a dominant complete game against the New York Yankees in front of a packed Tiger Stadium, and national television audience. Refusing to leave before a post-game curtain call, the fans just couldn't get enough of Fidrych's unique style, and heart on sleeve personality. 

Unfortunately, Fidrych suffered an undiagnosed torn rotator cuff the following season, and struggled for the rest of career. But his brief success, and one of a kind style, were enough to stamp his place in the halls of baseball history. 

Tragically, Fidrych was killed in an accident while working on his truck in 2009, at just 54 years old.

Here are 15 eccentric photos of Mark "The Bird" Fidrych just being himself, like no athlete ever has.