Charles Edward "Chuck" Finley, a left-handed pitcher, spent the majority of his Major League Baseball career with the California Angels, later known as the Anaheim Angels. Born on November 26, 1962, in Monroe, Louisiana, Finley attended the University of Louisiana at Monroe before being drafted by the Angels in the first round of the 1985 MLB Draft.
Finley made his MLB debut on May 29, 1986, with the Angels. Over the years, he became known for his effective pitching style, which combined a fastball with a devastating split-finger fastball and a curveball. His ability to strike out batters was a hallmark of his career, and he quickly established himself as a reliable starter in the Angels' rotation.
Throughout his time with the Angels, Finley achieved several milestones. He was selected to the All-Star Game five times, in 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996, and 2000, reflecting his status as one of the top pitchers in the league during those years. Finley also became the Angels' all-time leader in several pitching categories, including wins, strikeouts, and innings pitched, a testament to his longevity and consistency with the team.
One of Finley's most memorable performances came on May 12, 1999, when he struck out four batters in one inning, a rare feat in baseball. This occurred during a game against the New York Yankees, showcasing his ability to dominate even the most formidable lineups.
In 2000, Finley signed with the Cleveland Indians, where he continued to perform at a high level. During his time with the Indians, he added to his career strikeout total, further solidifying his reputation as a strikeout artist. Finley played with the Indians until 2002, when he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. He finished his career with the Cardinals, retiring after the 2002 season.
Over his 17-year career, Finley amassed 200 wins, 2,610 strikeouts, and a 3.85 earned run average (ERA). His ability to maintain a high level of performance over such an extended period is reflected in these statistics. Finley's career strikeout total ranks him among the top left-handed pitchers in MLB history.
Off the field, Finley was known for his laid-back demeanor and sense of humor, traits that endeared him to teammates and fans alike. Despite the pressures of professional sports, he maintained a reputation as a player who enjoyed the game and the camaraderie it brought.
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