Fred Marberry, born in Streetman, became baseball's first great relief pitcher. His combination of an overpowering fastball and near-perfect control helped the 1924 Washington Senators win the World Series over the New York Giants. Marberry played 14 years in the major leagues with the Washington Senators (1923-1932, 1936) Detroit Tigers (1933-1935) and New York Giants (1936). He achieved remarkable success in the 14 years he played in the major leagues. He went to the mound 551 times, winning 147 and losing 89. He was equally impressive in relief, posting a 53-37 record with 101 saves. Marberry was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 1982.

Fred "Firpo" Marberry's nickname originated from a resemblance to a famous boxer: Luis Firpo. His nickname came from his resemblance to Argentine boxer Luis Firpo. Luis Firpo was known as "The Wild Bull of the Pampas," and he gained notoriety for his 1923 title fight with Jack Dempsey. Sportswriters noticed the physical similarity between Marberry and the boxer, and the nickname stuck. It is also documented that Fred Marberry did not care for his nickname.