McBride's early years in the majors were spent with the White Sox, where he played sparingly. During his time with Chicago, he struggled to find a consistent spot in the rotation, appearing in only a handful of games over two seasons. His breakthrough came after he was selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 1960 MLB expansion draft. This move provided him with the opportunity to become a regular starter, and he quickly became an integral part of the Angels' pitching staff.
In his first season with the Angels in 1961, McBride showcased his abilities as a starting pitcher. He posted a 12-15 record with a 3.65 ERA, demonstrating his potential to be a reliable arm for the team. His performance earned him a spot on the American League All-Star team, an honor he would receive for three consecutive years from 1961 to 1963. McBride's 1962 season was arguably his best, as he achieved a 11-5 record with a 3.00 ERA, further solidifying his role as a key member of the Angels' rotation.
Throughout his tenure with the Angels, McBride was known for his effective fastball and curveball combination. He was a workhorse on the mound, often pitching deep into games and providing stability to the Angels' pitching staff. Despite playing for a team that was still finding its footing in the league, McBride's performances were a bright spot for the franchise.
Injuries, however, began to take a toll on McBride's career. By the mid-1960s, his effectiveness started to wane, and his playing time decreased. His final season in the majors came in 1965, when he appeared in only 11 games for the Angels. After his playing career ended, McBride's contributions to the Angels were remembered by fans who appreciated his role during the team's formative years.
Ken McBride's career in Major League Baseball may not have been lengthy, but his time with the Los Angeles Angels left a lasting memory for those who followed the team during its early days.
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