Elroy Leon "Roy" Face, a right-handed relief pitcher, became one of the most effective closers in Major League Baseball history. Born on February 20, 1928, in Stephentown, New York, Face's journey to the major leagues began in the minor leagues, where he honed his skills before making his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Face's career in the majors began in 1953 when he joined the Pirates. Initially, he was used as a starting pitcher, but it soon became evident that his talents were better suited for the bullpen. His signature pitch, the forkball, baffled hitters and became a crucial part of his arsenal. This pitch, which drops sharply as it approaches the plate, helped Face secure his reputation as a reliable reliever.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Face was a mainstay in the Pirates' bullpen. He was particularly effective in the late innings, often called upon to close out games. In 1959, Face achieved a remarkable feat by winning 18 games as a reliever, finishing the season with an 18-1 record. This performance set a record for the highest winning percentage in a single season, a testament to his ability to secure victories in tight situations.

Face's contributions were instrumental in the Pirates' success during this era. In 1960, he played a vital role in helping the team capture the National League pennant and ultimately win the World Series against the New York Yankees. During the series, Face appeared in four games, earning three saves and solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer in high-pressure situations.

Over the course of his career, Face was selected to the All-Star team three times, in 1959, 1960, and 1961. His consistent performance and ability to close out games made him a valuable asset to the Pirates and a respected figure among his peers. Face's career spanned 16 seasons, during which he amassed 193 saves, a record at the time of his retirement.

After leaving the Pirates in 1968, Face briefly played for the Detroit Tigers and Montreal Expos before retiring in 1969. His career statistics include a 104-95 win-loss record, a 3.48 earned run average, and 877 strikeouts. Face's legacy as a pioneering relief pitcher endures, as he helped pave the way for the specialized role of the closer in modern baseball.

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