Frank Viola, known for his exceptional pitching skills, became a well-regarded figure in Major League Baseball during the 1980s and early 1990s. Born on April 19, 1960, in East Meadow, New York, Viola attended St. John's University, where he honed his craft as a left-handed pitcher. His collegiate success caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection by the Minnesota Twins in the second round of the 1981 MLB Draft.
Viola made his major league debut with the Twins in 1982. Over the next few years, he developed into one of the team's most reliable starters. By 1984, he had established himself as a cornerstone of the Twins' pitching rotation, posting a 3.21 ERA and winning 18 games. His performance continued to improve, and in 1987, Viola played a crucial role in leading the Twins to their first World Series title. During the postseason, he delivered outstanding performances, earning the World Series MVP award after winning two games against the St. Louis Cardinals, including the decisive Game 7.
The peak of Viola's career came in 1988 when he won the American League Cy Young Award. That season, he achieved a 24-7 record with a 2.64 ERA, striking out 193 batters over 255.1 innings. His ability to mix a devastating changeup with a solid fastball and curveball made him a challenging opponent for hitters across the league.
In 1989, Viola was traded to the New York Mets, where he continued to perform at a high level. He recorded 20 wins in 1990, earning an All-Star selection and finishing third in the Cy Young Award voting. Viola's tenure with the Mets lasted until 1991, after which he signed with the Boston Red Sox as a free agent. While with the Red Sox, he maintained his reputation as a dependable starter, although injuries began to take a toll on his performance.
Viola's career continued with stints at the Cincinnati Reds and the Toronto Blue Jays. However, recurring injuries limited his effectiveness and playing time. He retired from professional baseball in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of 176 career wins, a 3.73 ERA, and over 1,800 strikeouts.
After retiring as a player, Viola transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations of pitchers. His post-playing career included coaching roles in both minor league and independent league baseball, as well as serving as a pitching coach for the New York Mets' Triple-A affiliate.
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