Bob Forsch was a professional baseball player who played as a pitcher in the Major League Baseball (MLB) for 16 seasons. He was born on January 13, 1950, in Sacramento, California, and grew up in a family of baseball players. His father, Bob Forsch Sr., was a minor league player, and his brother, Ken Forsch, also played in the MLB.
Forsch began his professional career in 1968 when he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 26th round of the MLB draft. He spent several years in the minor leagues before making his debut in the MLB in 1974. He played for the Cardinals for most of his career, but also had a brief stint with the Houston Astros in 1988.
Forsch was known for his consistency and durability as a pitcher. He had a career record of 168 wins and 136 losses, with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.76. He pitched 2,794 innings in his career, and recorded 1,133 strikeouts. He also had 12 shutouts and 3 saves.
Forsch's best season came in 1977 when he won 20 games and had an ERA of 3.48. He was named an All-Star that year and finished third in the National League Cy Young Award voting. He also helped lead the Cardinals to the World Series that year, although they lost to the New York Yankees.
Forsch was also known for his hitting ability. He had a career batting average of .213 and hit 12 home runs in his career. He was the last pitcher to hit two home runs in a game until Mike Hampton did it in 2001.
Forsch retired from baseball in 1989 at the age of 39. After his playing career, he worked as a coach and scout for several teams, including the Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers. He also worked as a broadcaster for the Cardinals.
Forsch passed away on November 3, 2011, at the age of 61. He suffered a heart attack while hunting on his property in Missouri. He was remembered by his former teammates and fans as a hard-working and dedicated player who always gave his best on the field.
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