Ricky Nolasco, a right-handed pitcher, began his Major League Baseball career with the Florida Marlins. Drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the fourth round of the 2001 MLB Draft, he was traded to the Marlins in 2005. Nolasco made his MLB debut on April 5, 2006, and quickly became a reliable starter for the Marlins. During his rookie season, he posted a 4.82 ERA over 140 innings, demonstrating potential with his ability to strike out batters and maintain control on the mound.
In 2008, Nolasco had a breakout season, achieving a career-best 15-8 record with a 3.52 ERA and 186 strikeouts. His performance helped the Marlins remain competitive in the National League East. Nolasco's ability to mix his fastball with an effective slider and curveball made him a challenging opponent for hitters. Over the next few years, he continued to be a mainstay in the Marlins' rotation, though his performance fluctuated. He often displayed flashes of brilliance, such as his 16-strikeout game against the Atlanta Braves in 2009, which set a franchise record.
Despite some inconsistencies, Nolasco remained a valuable asset for the Marlins until 2013, when he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The move to Los Angeles provided Nolasco with an opportunity to pitch for a team in playoff contention. He contributed to the Dodgers' successful run to the postseason, finishing the year with a combined 13-11 record and a 3.70 ERA between the two teams.
Following his stint with the Dodgers, Nolasco signed a four-year contract with the Minnesota Twins in December 2013. His time with the Twins was marred by injuries and struggles on the mound, leading to less impressive statistics. Over three seasons, he posted a 5.44 ERA, failing to replicate the success he had earlier in his career. In 2016, Nolasco was traded to the Los Angeles Angels, where he sought to revitalize his career.
With the Angels, Nolasco showed glimpses of his former self, particularly in the latter half of the 2016 season. He managed to lower his ERA and provided stability to the Angels' rotation. In 2017, his final season in the majors, Nolasco pitched 181 innings, the most he had thrown since 2013, but struggled with consistency, finishing with a 6-15 record and a 4.92 ERA.
Throughout his career, Nolasco was known for his durability and ability to eat innings, often serving as a workhorse for his teams.
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