Jerry Reuss, a left-handed pitcher known for his longevity and adaptability, enjoyed a lengthy career in Major League Baseball. Born on June 19, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri, Reuss began his professional journey when he was drafted by the hometown St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of the 1967 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with the Cardinals in 1969, quickly establishing himself as a reliable arm on the mound.

Reuss's early years with the Cardinals were marked by steady development, but it was after his trade to the Houston Astros in 1972 that he began to gain more attention. His time with the Astros was relatively short, as he was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1974. It was with the Pirates that Reuss began to flourish, becoming an integral part of their pitching rotation. In 1975, he achieved a career milestone by winning 18 games, showcasing his ability to handle a significant workload and deliver consistent performances.

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Reuss in 1979, a move that would lead to some of the most memorable moments of his career. During his tenure with the Dodgers, Reuss became a key component of their pitching staff. In 1980, he had one of his best seasons, finishing with an impressive 18-6 record and a 2.51 ERA. That year, he was selected as an All-Star and finished second in the National League Cy Young Award voting. One of the highlights of his career came on June 27, 1980, when he pitched a no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants, a testament to his skill and precision on the mound.

Reuss's contributions were instrumental in helping the Dodgers reach the postseason multiple times. In 1981, he played a vital role in the Dodgers' World Series championship run. His performance in the postseason was crucial, particularly in the National League Championship Series and the World Series, where he delivered strong outings that helped secure the title for Los Angeles.

After his successful stint with the Dodgers, Reuss continued to pitch in the major leagues, playing for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, California Angels, Chicago White Sox, and Milwaukee Brewers. Despite the changes in teams, Reuss maintained his effectiveness as a pitcher, adapting to different roles, whether as a starter or coming out of the bullpen.

Reuss's career spanned over two decades, during which he accumulated 220 wins, 1,907 strikeouts, and a 3.64 ERA. His ability to remain competitive and effective over such a long period is a testament to his skill and understanding of the game. Beyond his on-field achievements, Reuss was known for his professionalism and sportsmanship, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

After retiring from playing, Reuss transitioned to broadcasting and coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with a new generation of players and fans. His insights into the game have been valued in various roles, including as a color commentator and pitching coach.

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