Background
He was born in Staten Island, New New York
He was born in Staten Island, New New York
Mikkelsen batted and threw right-handed. A sinker-ball specialist, Mikkelsen filled various relief roles coming out from the bullpen, as a closer or a middle reliever, and as a set-up man as well. He reached the majors in 1964 with the New York Yankees, spending two years with them before moving to the Pirates, Cubs, Cardinals and Dodgers.
He finished 7–4 with a 3.56 European Research Area and 12 saves in his rookie season, but in the 1964 World Series against Saint Louis he allowed a Tim McCarver game-winning three-run home run in the 10th inning of Game Five.
His most productive season came in 1966 with Pittsburgh, when he posted a 3.07 European Research Area and set career-highs with nine wins, 14 saves, 76 strikeouts, 126 innings, and 71 games pitched. He also gave four years of good service for the Dodgers with 24 wins and 20 saves in 155 appearances.
In 1969-1970 he averaged a 2.76 European Research Area for each season. In a nine-season career, Mikkelsen posted a 45–40 record with a 3.38 European Research Area and 49 saves in 364 games.
Pete missed the start of the 1970 season after contracting infectious hepatitis, allegedly during a hunting trip before spring training.
Mikkelsen died in Mabton, Washington, at the age of 67.