Don Robinson, known for his prowess on the mound and at the plate, spent 15 seasons in Major League Baseball. He began his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, who drafted him in the third round of the 1975 MLB Draft. Robinson made his major league debut on April 10, 1978, and quickly established himself as a reliable pitcher.
During his rookie season, Robinson posted an impressive 14-6 record with a 3.47 ERA, earning him the National League Rookie Pitcher of the Year award from The Sporting News. His performance helped the Pirates secure a second-place finish in the National League East. Robinson's ability to pitch effectively in various roles, whether as a starter or reliever, made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 1979, Robinson played a crucial role in the Pirates' World Series championship run. Although he was primarily a starter, he also contributed out of the bullpen during the postseason. The Pirates defeated the Baltimore Orioles in a thrilling seven-game series, and Robinson's versatility was instrumental in their success.
Robinson's tenure with the Pirates lasted until 1987. During this period, he developed a reputation as one of the best-hitting pitchers in the league. He won three Silver Slugger Awards (1982, 1989, and 1990), which are given to the best offensive players at each position. Robinson's batting skills were a rare asset for a pitcher, and he often helped his own cause with timely hits.
In 1987, Robinson was traded to the San Francisco Giants, where he continued to excel both on the mound and at the plate. His time with the Giants included a memorable 1989 season when the team reached the World Series. Although the Giants were swept by the Oakland Athletics, Robinson's performance throughout the season was commendable. He posted a 12-11 record with a 3.43 ERA, and his contributions were vital in helping the Giants capture the National League pennant.
Robinson's career took him to the California Angels in 1991, where he played for a brief period before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. He finished his career with the Phillies in 1992. Over the course of his career, Robinson compiled a 109-106 win-loss record, a 3.79 ERA, and 957 strikeouts. His ability to adapt to different roles and his prowess as a hitter set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Beyond his statistics, Robinson was known for his competitive spirit and his ability to perform under pressure.
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