Petry made his MLB debut with the Detroit Tigers on July 8, 1979. Over the next several years, he became a reliable starter for the team. His pitching style was characterized by a strong fastball and effective breaking pitches, which helped him secure a spot in the Tigers' rotation. In 1980, Petry began to establish himself as a consistent performer, winning 10 games and posting a respectable ERA.
The early 1980s saw Petry at the peak of his career. In 1982, he achieved a personal best with 19 wins, which was among the top in the American League that year. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game, highlighting his growing reputation as a dependable pitcher. The following year, he continued to excel, winning 17 games and helping the Tigers build momentum.
Petry's contributions were crucial during the 1984 season when the Detroit Tigers won the World Series. As part of a formidable pitching staff that included Jack Morris and Willie Hernandez, Petry won 18 games and maintained a solid ERA, playing a significant role in the team's success. His efforts in the postseason further underscored his value to the team, as he helped the Tigers secure their first championship since 1968.
After the World Series triumph, Petry continued to pitch for the Tigers, although injuries began to affect his performance. Despite these challenges, he remained a key part of the rotation through the mid-1980s. In 1985, he recorded 15 wins, demonstrating his ability to bounce back and contribute to the team's efforts.
In 1988, Petry was traded to the California Angels, where he sought to revitalize his career. While his time with the Angels was marked by ups and downs, he managed to provide veteran leadership and experience to the pitching staff. Petry later had brief stints with the Atlanta Braves and the Boston Red Sox, where he continued to pitch until the end of his career.
Throughout his time in the major leagues, Petry accumulated a win-loss record of 125-104, with an ERA of 3.95 and 1,063 strikeouts. His career was characterized by moments of brilliance and resilience, as he navigated the challenges of professional baseball. After retiring from playing, Petry remained involved in the sport, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players.
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