Mike Witt, a right-handed pitcher known for his towering presence on the mound, played Major League Baseball primarily with the California Angels and later with the New York Yankees. Born on July 20, 1960, in Fullerton, California, Witt's journey to the major leagues began when he was drafted by the California Angels in the fourth round of the 1978 MLB Draft.
Witt made his MLB debut with the Angels on April 11, 1981. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, his height and pitching style quickly caught the attention of fans and opponents alike. Early in his career, Witt showcased a powerful fastball complemented by a sharp curveball, which became his signature pitch. His breakout season came in 1984 when he posted a 15-11 record with a 3.47 ERA, establishing himself as a reliable starter in the Angels' rotation.
One of the most memorable moments in Witt's career occurred on September 30, 1984, when he pitched a perfect game against the Texas Rangers. This achievement was only the 11th perfect game in Major League history at the time, and it remains a highlight of Witt's career. He retired all 27 batters he faced, striking out 10, and securing a 1-0 victory for the Angels. This performance solidified his reputation as a pitcher capable of dominating on any given day.
Witt continued to be a mainstay in the Angels' rotation throughout the mid-1980s. In 1986, he enjoyed one of his best seasons, finishing with an 18-10 record and a 2.84 ERA. His efforts helped lead the Angels to the American League Championship Series (ALCS) that year. Although the Angels fell to the Boston Red Sox in a dramatic seven-game series, Witt's performance throughout the season earned him an All-Star selection, the first of his career.
In 1987, Witt was again named an All-Star, further cementing his status as one of the top pitchers in the league. However, the following years saw a decline in his performance, partly due to injuries and changes in his pitching mechanics. Despite these challenges, Witt remained a valuable asset to the Angels until 1990, when he was traded to the New York Yankees in exchange for Dave Winfield.
Witt's tenure with the Yankees was marred by injuries, limiting his effectiveness and playing time. He struggled to regain his previous form, and his time in New York was a period of transition as he attempted to adapt to a new team and overcome physical setbacks. Witt's last appearance in the major leagues came on June 17, 1993, with the Yankees.
After retiring from professional baseball, Witt's legacy endured through his remarkable achievements, particularly his perfect game and his contributions to the Angels during the 1980s.
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