Chicago Cubs 1971 Key Players: Milt Pappas to Billy Williams
The Page from the 1971 Illustrated Digest of Baseball highlights key players from the Chicago Cubs. Milt Pappas, a pitcher acquired from Atlanta, quickly became a starter, achieving a 10-8 record and a 2.67 ERA over 21 games. Notably, he was the only pitcher in the National League to pitch a shutout over Cincinnati last season. Milt began his career in 1957 with Baltimore and has also played for the Reds and Braves. Joe Pepitone, a versatile first baseman and outfielder, was purchased from Houston. In his debut National League season, he hit 12 home runs in 56 games, totaling 26 homers and 79 RBIs for the year. Previously, he had an eight-season tenure with the Yankees. Phil Regan, a seasoned relief pitcher, has been in the Cubs bullpen since 1968 after a successful stint with the Dodgers. In 1970, he made 54 appearances with a 5-9 record. Ron Santo, known for his powerful hitting, had 114 RBIs last season and hit 26 home runs with a .267 average. He has consistently demonstrated endurance, playing over 154 games every year since 1961 and achieving a career-high of 33 home runs in 1965. Billy Williams, an outfielder noted for his smooth swing, led the Cubs in batting in 1970 with 42 home runs and 129 RBIs.