On the blog today, we spotlight my 1970 "In-Game Action" card for former Detroit Tigers ace Denny McLain, who was coming off his second straight Cy Young Award in 1969:
McLain
experienced both the highs and the lows of playing in the Big Leagues,
reeling off five super seasons between 1965 and 1969, including the
aforementioned two Cy Youngs and an MVP, then plummeting in 1970 where
he never again found his form, retiring from the game at only 28 years
of age after the 1972 campaign.
His 1968 season was the stuff of legend, as he helped the Tigers on their way to a World Championship, with the 24-year
old McLain led the way anchoring the staff with an incredible 31-6
record, along with a 1.96 earned run average, 280 strikeouts, six
shutouts and completing 28 of 41 starts!
Not only was that good for the Cy Young Award, but he also took home the Most Valuable Player Award as well.
Of course 1968 will forever be known as the “Year of the Pitcher”, but it does not take away from what McLain accomplished.
He would lead the league in wins, winning percentage, complete games and innings pitched that year, and would follow it up with another Cy Young season in 1969 when he posted a 24-9 record along with a 2.80 E.R.A., nine shutouts and 181 strikeouts in 41 starts.
What an amazing run!
Not only was that good for the Cy Young Award, but he also took home the Most Valuable Player Award as well.
Of course 1968 will forever be known as the “Year of the Pitcher”, but it does not take away from what McLain accomplished.
He would lead the league in wins, winning percentage, complete games and innings pitched that year, and would follow it up with another Cy Young season in 1969 when he posted a 24-9 record along with a 2.80 E.R.A., nine shutouts and 181 strikeouts in 41 starts.
What an amazing run!
