Downing began his career with the New York Yankees in 1961. He quickly established himself as a reliable starting pitcher, known for his fastball and sharp breaking curve. In 1963, he was selected to the All-Star team and helped the Yankees reach the World Series. Downing's best season with the Yankees came in 1964 when he won 13 games and posted a career-best 3.47 ERA. However, despite his individual success, the Yankees were unable to win the World Series during his tenure.
In 1967, Downing was traded to the Oakland Athletics. His time with the Athletics was short-lived, and he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in 1970. However, he struggled with the Brewers and was released after just one season.
Downing's career took a turn for the better when he signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1971. He enjoyed a career resurgence with the Dodgers, becoming one of the team's most reliable starting pitchers. In 1971, he won 20 games, the most in his career, and posted a 2.68 ERA, earning him a spot on the All-Star team. He also helped the Dodgers reach the World Series in 1974, although they were unable to secure the championship.
Downing's most notable moment came in 1974 when he gave up Hank Aaron's record-breaking 715th home run, surpassing Babe Ruth's long-standing record. Despite being on the wrong end of this historic moment, Downing handled the situation with grace and sportsmanship, earning him respect from fans and fellow players.
Downing retired from professional baseball in 1977. Over his 17-year career, he won 123 games, posted a 3.22 ERA, and struck out 1,639 batters. Despite never winning a World Series, Downing's career was marked by individual success and memorable moments. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting legacy, and he is remembered as one of the most talented pitchers of his era.
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2½ hours
Jul 7, 1971
During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances...
Chicago Cubs vs Los Angeles Dodgers - Scully - Radio Broadcast / During the 1971 season, the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers had notable performances and competed fiercely for a spot in the playoffs. The Cubs showcased their offensive power and solid pitching, led by players like Ron Santo, Billy Williams, and Ernie Banks. They had a strong start to the season and remained in the playoff race throughout July. However, their pitching staff faced challenges at times, impacting their consistency and requiring improvement to maintain their competitive edge.
On the other hand, the Dodgers were renowned for their pitching dominance, with Sandy Koufax leading the way. Their strong bullpen and pitching rotation allowed them to shut down opponents effectively. Throughout July, the Dodgers continued to perform consistently, relying on their pitching staff to secure crucial victories and maintain their position as a formidable force in the National League.
In July, both teams were determined to secure a strong position in their divisions. The Dodgers' pitching staff stood out as their main strength, ensuring they remained a top contender. Conversely, the Cubs relied on their offensive prowess, but they encountered difficulties due to inconsistencies in their pitching performances. Despite the challenges faced by both teams, they remained in contention for a playoff berth, making the 1971 season an exciting and competitive one for fans and players alike.
3 hours
Oct 3, 1964Oct 3, 1964
On Saturday, October 3, 1964, the New York Yankees hosted the Cleveland Indians at Yankee...
Cleveland Indians vs New York Yankees - Clinch - Radio Broadcast / On Saturday, October 3, 1964, the New York Yankees hosted the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium in a day game that was a part of the final stretch of the regular season. The Yankees started the game with Al Downing on the mound, a left-handed pitcher who had been a key part of their rotation throughout the season. The Indians countered with Lee Stange, a right-hander who was looking to improve on a challenging season, as reflected in his 7-14 record. At this point in the season, the Yankees were in a tight race for the American League pennant, while the Indians were playing for pride, well out of contention for the postseason. The baseball world was abuzz with the tight pennant races, especially in the National League where the Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds were locked in a fierce battle.
The game started with the Yankees taking an early lead, scoring two runs in the first inning thanks to a Mickey Mantle double that drove in Phil Linz and Bobby Richardson. The Indians managed to score a run in the top of the third on a single by Chico Salmon, but the Yankees responded in the bottom of the inning with a run of their own, extending their lead to 3-1. The Indians showed signs of a comeback in the sixth inning, scoring two runs to tighten the game at 3-3. However, the Yankees' offense proved too strong, exploding for five runs in the eighth inning to secure a commanding lead. Key contributions in this inning came from Mantle and Elston Howard, who both drew walks and later scored, while Joe Pepitone and Clete Boyer added crucial hits.
The final score was 8-3 in favor of the Yankees, a victory that played a significant role in their successful chase for the American League pennant. The 1964 season was a memorable one for the Yankees, as they won the AL pennant but eventually lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in a thrilling seven-game World Series. Mickey Mantle, despite battling injuries, had a solid season, and the Yankees' roster was dotted with All-Stars, including Howard, who won the American League's Most Valuable Player award.