Medich's professional baseball career began when he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 30th round of the 1970 MLB Draft. He quickly rose through the ranks, making his MLB debut with the Yankees on September 5, 1972. In his rookie season, Medich showed promise, which he built upon in the following years. By 1973, he had secured a spot in the Yankees' starting rotation, finishing the season with a 14-9 record and a 2.95 ERA, which helped establish him as a reliable pitcher.
The 1974 season was arguably the peak of Medich's career. He achieved a career-high 19 wins, posting a 19-15 record with a 3.60 ERA. His performance that year earned him consideration for the Cy Young Award, highlighting his status as one of the top pitchers in the league. Medich's ability to consistently deliver quality starts made him a valuable asset to the Yankees' pitching staff.
In 1975, Medich was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he continued to perform well. During his time with the Pirates, he maintained a solid presence on the mound, contributing to the team's success. However, his tenure with the Pirates was relatively short-lived, as he was traded to the Oakland Athletics in 1976. His stint with the Athletics was brief, and he soon found himself on the move again, this time to the Seattle Mariners.
Medich's career was characterized by frequent team changes, as he played for several teams over the years, including the Texas Rangers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Boston Red Sox. Despite the constant transitions, he remained a dependable pitcher, known for his ability to eat innings and keep his team in games. His adaptability and consistency allowed him to maintain a place in the major leagues for a decade.
Throughout his career, Medich was known for his strong work ethic and professionalism. He was a pitcher who relied on control and finesse rather than overpowering velocity. His pitching style was marked by a mix of fastballs, curveballs, and changeups, which he used effectively to keep hitters off balance.
Off the field, Medich's commitment to his medical studies was a defining aspect of his life. He managed to balance the demands of a professional baseball career with his pursuit of a medical degree, eventually earning his M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. This dual career path was a testament to his dedication and discipline, setting him apart from his peers.
Medich's baseball career concluded in 1982, after which he transitioned to a full-time medical career. He became an orthopedic surgeon, applying the same dedication and skill that he had demonstrated on the baseball field to his medical practice. His unique journey from the pitcher's mound to the operating room remains a remarkable story in the annals of sports history.
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