“Denny” was just starting what would turn out to me a magnificent 23-year career that would see him win 245 games, throw a perfect game in 1991 and strike out over 2300 batters.
Though a solid starter with the Baltimore Orioles between 1976 and 1985, it was his stint with the Montreal Expos from 1986 to 1993 that solidified his place as a premier starter, posting a 100-72 record with a very nice 3.06 earned run average over eight seasons.
A four-time all-star, Martinez garnered all of those after the age of 35, and led the National League in ERA, complete games and shutouts in 1991 at the age of 37.
Even at the age of 41 with the Cleveland Indians in 1995, he posted an excellent season that saw him go 12-5 with a 3.08 ERA and a couple of shutouts.
Solid and steady for almost a quarter-century.
Gotta create an “El Presidente” nickname card in the near future!