Langston made his major league debut with the Mariners in 1984. His rookie season was impressive, as he led the American League in strikeouts with 204, showcasing his ability to overpower hitters with his fastball and slider. This performance earned him a spot on the All-Star team and the runner-up position in the American League Rookie of the Year voting.
Throughout his tenure with the Mariners, Langston was known for his strikeout prowess. He led the American League in strikeouts three times during his five seasons with Seattle. His time with the Mariners solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier strikeout pitchers.
In 1989, Langston was traded to the Montreal Expos in a deal that sent future Hall of Famer Randy Johnson to Seattle. Although his stint with the Expos was brief, Langston continued to perform at a high level, finishing the season with a combined 16-14 record and a 2.74 ERA between the two teams.
Langston's next chapter began when he signed with the California Angels as a free agent in 1989. His tenure with the Angels was marked by consistent performance and leadership on the pitching staff. In 1991, he achieved a career highlight by pitching a no-hitter against the Mariners, further cementing his reputation as a dominant pitcher.
During his time with the Angels, Langston was selected to three more All-Star teams, bringing his total to four. He also won seven Gold Glove Awards, showcasing his defensive skills on the mound. His ability to field his position was an often-overlooked aspect of his game, but it contributed significantly to his overall effectiveness as a pitcher.
Langston's career continued with the Angels until 1997, when he joined the San Diego Padres. He spent a brief period with the Padres before moving to the Cleveland Indians in 1999. Although his time with these teams was short, Langston's experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the pitching staffs.
After retiring from professional baseball, Langston transitioned into broadcasting, where he provided color commentary for Angels radio broadcasts. His insights and knowledge of the game allowed him to remain connected to baseball, sharing his experiences and understanding with fans.
Throughout his career, Langston amassed 2,464 strikeouts, ranking him among the top left-handed pitchers in MLB history at the time of his retirement. His career record stood at 179 wins and 158 losses, with an ERA of 3.97 over 16 seasons. Langston's ability to consistently perform at a high level over an extended period is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
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