Rick Wise, a right-handed pitcher known for his remarkable achievements on the mound, began his Major League Baseball career with the Philadelphia Phillies. Born on September 13, 1945, in Jackson, Michigan, Wise made his MLB debut at the young age of 18. His early years with the Phillies were marked by steady development as he honed his skills and established himself as a reliable starting pitcher.

One of the most memorable moments in Wise's career occurred on June 23, 1971, when he accomplished a rare feat in baseball history. Pitching against the Cincinnati Reds, Wise not only threw a no-hitter but also hit two home runs in the same game. This extraordinary performance made him the only pitcher in MLB history to achieve such a combination in a single game, highlighting his dual threat as both a pitcher and a hitter.

In 1972, Wise was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for another legendary pitcher, Steve Carlton. During his time with the Cardinals, Wise continued to demonstrate his pitching prowess. He was selected for the All-Star Game in 1973, further cementing his reputation as a top-tier pitcher in the league. His tenure with the Cardinals was marked by consistent performances and a strong presence on the mound.

Wise's career took another turn in 1974 when he was traded to the Boston Red Sox. With the Red Sox, he continued to be a dependable starter, contributing to the team's pitching rotation. His experience and skill were valuable assets to the team as they competed in the American League.

In 1978, Wise joined the Cleveland Indians, where he played for two seasons. His veteran presence provided stability and leadership to the pitching staff. Although his time with the Indians was relatively short, Wise's impact was felt both on and off the field.

Wise concluded his MLB career with the San Diego Padres, where he played from 1980 to 1982. As his playing days wound down, he transitioned into a mentorship role, guiding younger pitchers and sharing his wealth of experience. His career spanned 18 seasons, during which he accumulated 188 wins, 1,647 strikeouts, and a 3.69 ERA.

Throughout his career, Wise was known for his strong work ethic and ability to perform under pressure.