Why this card is awesome: Because of second chances. Look at that terrible, terrible 1985 Young had. In 46 IP, he compiled a 7.24 ERA, more BBs than Ks, and an 0-4 record. But Oakland stuck with him, and Young became a valuable member of the pitching staff, helping them to the World Series in 1988 to 1990 (although he didn't pitch much in any of the post-seasons, actually.)
Cool stat: Young had two complete-game 1 hitters in his career. But they were quite different. This one was your standard 1-hit shutout, with just Kevin Seitzer single in the 7th inning. However, this one, while also a complete-game win, featured 3 runs scoring, with the only hit being a 2-run homer by Ken Williams (current White Sox GM.) The other run scored on a walk, error, and fielder's choice.
When I've run across his baseball card, the first thing that comes to mind is "CYoung," but Curt didn't quite pitch up to those levels.
ReplyDeleteI actually thought the EXACT same thing, and almost included it in the post. I remember seeing his name in the paper as the projected starter and thinking--if only he WERE Cy Young...
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