Kline's major league debut came on June 28, 1970, with the Yankees. He quickly established himself as a reliable starting pitcher. In his rookie season, Kline posted a 6-6 record with a 3.41 ERA, showing promise for the future. Over the next few years, he became a mainstay in the Yankees' rotation, known for his ability to pitch deep into games.
The 1971 season was a standout year for Kline. He achieved a career-high 12 wins and maintained a 2.96 ERA, demonstrating his effectiveness on the mound. His performance helped the Yankees remain competitive in the American League, although they fell short of postseason play.
In 1972, Kline continued to be a dependable starter for the Yankees, recording a 16-9 record with a 2.40 ERA. His efforts earned him recognition as one of the top pitchers in the league. However, the Yankees traded him to the Cleveland Indians in 1974, a move that marked a new chapter in his career.
With the Indians, Kline faced challenges, including injuries that affected his performance. Despite these setbacks, he managed to contribute to the team's pitching staff. In 1974, he recorded a 4-9 record with a 4.31 ERA. The following year, he improved slightly, finishing with a 6-11 record and a 4.62 ERA.
Kline's tenure with the Indians was relatively short-lived. In 1976, he was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he hoped to revitalize his career. Unfortunately, injuries continued to plague him, limiting his effectiveness on the mound. During his time with the Braves, Kline struggled to regain his earlier form, finishing the season with a 1-6 record and a 5.11 ERA.
In 1977, Kline attempted a comeback with the Braves, but persistent injuries led to his retirement from professional baseball. Over his career, he compiled a 43-45 record with a 3.26 ERA, reflecting both his early success and later challenges.
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