Cain made his debut with the Tigers in 1968, a year when the team was on the cusp of winning the World Series. Although he didn't play in the postseason, being part of a championship-winning organization was an invaluable experience for the young pitcher. His early years in the majors were characterized by a struggle to find consistency, a common challenge for many young pitchers.
The 1970 season was a turning point for Cain. He became a regular in the Tigers' starting rotation, showcasing his potential with a series of strong performances. That year, he achieved a personal milestone by winning 12 games, a testament to his growing skill and confidence on the mound. His ability to strike out batters was particularly noteworthy, as he recorded 156 strikeouts over the course of the season.
Despite these successes, Cain's career was marred by injuries. Arm troubles began to plague him, affecting his performance and limiting his time on the field. The physical toll of pitching at the major league level is significant, and for Cain, these injuries became a persistent obstacle.
In 1971, Cain continued to battle through his physical challenges, managing to secure 10 wins for the Tigers. However, the strain on his arm was becoming increasingly apparent. The following year, his appearances on the mound were limited, and it became clear that his career was in jeopardy.
Cain's time in Major League Baseball came to an early end in 1972. At just 24 years old, the injuries that had plagued him proved too severe to overcome. His career statistics include a win-loss record of 23-19, an earned run average of 3.98, and 303 strikeouts. While his time in the majors was brief, Cain's talent and determination left a lasting impression on those who watched him play.
After retiring from baseball, Cain's life took a different direction, away from the public eye.
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