Burdette was a star pitcher in Major League Baseball, best known for his time with the Milwaukee Braves. Born in Nitro, he learned to pitch after high school while playing for the local American Viscose Corporation's team.

He joined the New York Yankees in 1946 but found success with the Braves starting in 1952. Burdette’s best years came between 1957 and 1961. In the 1957 World Series, he won three games against the Yankees, including the championship-clinching one, and was named MVP. He went on to win 20 or more games in both 1958 and 1959.

In his 18-year career, Burdette won 203 games. In 1957, Nitro honored him with a “Lew Burdette Day” for his achievements.