Reuschel quickly established himself as a reliable starter for the Cubs. Known for his control and ability to induce ground balls, he was not a power pitcher but relied on his sinker and excellent command to get outs. His physique was atypical for a professional athlete, earning him the nickname "Big Daddy," but his performance on the mound was consistently effective.
Throughout the 1970s, Reuschel was a mainstay in the Cubs' rotation. In 1977, he had one of his best seasons, winning 20 games and earning a spot on the National League All-Star team. That year, he finished third in the Cy Young Award voting, underscoring his status as one of the league's top pitchers. His ability to pitch deep into games and keep his team competitive was highly valued, even if he did not always receive ample run support.
In 1981, Reuschel was traded to the New York Yankees, where he played for a brief period before being traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1985. His time with the Pirates was marked by a remarkable comeback. After undergoing shoulder surgery in 1982, many doubted his ability to return to form. However, Reuschel defied expectations, posting impressive numbers and earning the National League Comeback Player of the Year Award in 1985.
Reuschel's career took another positive turn when he joined the San Francisco Giants in 1987. With the Giants, he experienced a resurgence, becoming an integral part of their pitching staff. In 1987, he won 13 games and helped lead the Giants to the National League Championship Series. The following year, he was named an All-Star for the second time in his career and finished eighth in the Cy Young Award voting.
In 1989, Reuschel played a crucial role in the Giants' journey to the World Series. Although they ultimately fell to the Oakland Athletics, his performance throughout the season was instrumental in the team's success. He won 17 games that year and was once again selected as an All-Star, demonstrating his enduring skill and competitiveness on the mound.
Reuschel continued to pitch for the Giants until 1991, when he retired from professional baseball. Over the course of his career, he amassed 214 wins, a 3.37 ERA, and 2,015 strikeouts. His longevity and consistency were hallmarks of his time in the majors, and he remains a respected figure in the baseball community.
Rick Reuschel's career is remembered for his ability to adapt and succeed despite challenges.
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