Odom began his MLB career with the Kansas City Athletics in 1964, shortly after the franchise moved from Philadelphia. As a young pitcher, he showed promise with a strong arm and a competitive spirit. When the Athletics relocated to Oakland in 1968, Odom was part of a talented roster that would soon make its mark in baseball history.
During his time with the Oakland Athletics, Odom became a key member of the team's starting rotation. His best years came in the early 1970s when the Athletics, under the ownership of Charles O. Finley, became a powerhouse in the American League. Odom's pitching contributed to the Athletics' three consecutive World Series championships from 1972 to 1974. His performance in the postseason was often crucial, as he pitched effectively in several World Series games, helping to secure the team's legacy as one of the dynasties of the era.
Odom was known for his hard fastball and a sharp curveball, which he used to keep hitters off balance. He also had a changeup in his arsenal, making him a challenging opponent on the mound. His pitching style was complemented by his athleticism, as he was a capable fielder and could handle the bat when called upon to hit.
Throughout his career, Odom was selected to the All-Star team twice, showcasing his talent among the league's best players. His unique nickname, "Blue Moon," was given to him by a classmate who thought his round face resembled the moon. The nickname stuck and became a part of his identity throughout his baseball career.
Despite his success, Odom's career was not without its challenges. Injuries and inconsistency at times hampered his performance, leading to fluctuations in his effectiveness as a pitcher. Nonetheless, his contributions to the Athletics' championship teams cemented his place in baseball history.
After his tenure with the Athletics, Odom played for several other teams, including the Cleveland Indians, the Atlanta Braves, and the Chicago White Sox. His time with these clubs was less distinguished than his peak years in Oakland, but he continued to be a respected veteran presence in the league.
Odom's career statistics reflect the highs and lows of his time in the majors. He finished with an 84-85 win-loss record, a 3.70 ERA, and 840 strikeouts over the course of 1,070.2 innings pitched. While these numbers may not capture the full extent of his impact on the game, they do provide a snapshot of a career that was integral to one of baseball's most memorable eras.
After retiring from baseball, Odom remained connected to the sport and his community. His legacy as a member of the Oakland Athletics' championship teams of the 1970s endures, and he is remembered as a charismatic and talented pitcher who played a significant role in the success of one of the game's great teams.
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