In a touching tribute, Baseball Australia will fast track Grant Balfour’s induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame to ensure his ailing father, David, can witness the ceremony.

The heart-on-his-sleeve pitcher will be honoured after ten years of service to the sport and will be inducted in the Outstanding International Career category.

Speaking of his induction from the US, Balfour thanked his family and friends for supporting his career.

“I am honoured to be inducted into the Baseball Australia Hall of Fame with many other greats who have played or made a huge impact on this game,” Balfour said.

“I started out playing baseball at the age of 6 and continue to play the game today. It has been my life and I am very fortunate to have made a great living from this game.

“I continue my passion for the game and hope to accomplish many more things to come. I want to thank my family who have been there for me my whole career and are my biggest fans.”

media_camera Balfour throws down from the mound for Tampa Bay. Picture: Brian Blanco

Balfour has earned a cult following in the MLB for his explosive personality as much as his rocket right arm.

Currently on his second stay at the Tampa Bay Rays, Balfour has had stints at several MLB clubs in his 18-year career in America, including the Minnesota Twins, Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers and the Oakland Athletics.

Originally published as Touching HOF tribute for Balfour