Hunter made his major league debut on May 13, 1965, at the age of 19. His early years with the Athletics were marked by steady development and flashes of brilliance. In 1968, the Athletics moved to Oakland, and Hunter's career began to ascend. That year, he pitched a perfect game against the Minnesota Twins on May 8, becoming the youngest pitcher in the American League to achieve such a feat at the time.
The 1970s saw Hunter at the peak of his career. As a cornerstone of the Oakland Athletics' pitching staff, he played a crucial role in the team's success. From 1972 to 1974, the Athletics won three consecutive World Series titles, with Hunter being a vital part of their rotation. In 1974, he earned the American League Cy Young Award, recognizing him as the league's best pitcher. That season, he achieved a 25-12 record with a 2.49 ERA, further cementing his reputation as one of the game's elite pitchers.
Hunter's success on the field was matched by his influence off it. In 1974, he became one of the first players to challenge the reserve clause, which bound players to their teams indefinitely. An arbitrator ruled in his favor, making him a free agent. This decision not only changed the course of Hunter's career but also had lasting implications for player rights in baseball.
In 1975, Hunter signed a lucrative contract with the New York Yankees, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. His tenure with the Yankees was marked by continued excellence. He helped lead the team to three consecutive American League pennants from 1976 to 1978 and back-to-back World Series championships in 1977 and 1978. Hunter's leadership and experience were invaluable to the Yankees during this period of success.
Throughout his career, Hunter was known for his pinpoint control and competitive spirit. He was an eight-time All-Star and finished his career with a record of 224 wins, 166 losses, and a 3.26 ERA. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations made him a favorite among teammates and fans alike.
Hunter retired after the 1979 season, citing arm problems and a desire to spend more time with his family. In 1987, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding career and contributions to the game. Tragically, Hunter's life was cut short when he passed away on September 9, 1999, at the age of 53, due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
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