Goltz spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins, where he emerged as a key pitcher. One of his most notable seasons came in 1977 when he led the American League (AL) in wins, finishing the season with a record of 20-11. This performance was a highlight of his career and showcased his abilities as a top-tier starting pitcher. Throughout his tenure with the Twins, Goltz was known for his durability and effectiveness, consistently ranking among the team's leaders in wins, complete games, and innings pitched.
In 1980, Goltz signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers as a free agent, leaving the Twins after eight seasons. His time with the Dodgers was marked by a transition to the National League (NL), where he continued to be a regular starter. Goltz played for the Dodgers for two seasons before moving to the California Angels in 1982. His stint with the Angels was brief, and he concluded his MLB career with the team in 1983.
Over the course of his career, Goltz compiled a win-loss record of 113-109, with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.69. He pitched in 2470.2 innings across 347 games, starting 302 of them. Goltz recorded 11 shutouts and 102 complete games, showcasing his ability to pitch deep into games. Additionally, he struck out 1,047 batters while walking 646.
Goltz's pitching style was characterized by his control and ability to pitch effectively in crucial situations. He was not an overpowering pitcher in terms of strikeouts but relied on his pitch selection and location to get batters out. His contributions on the mound were valuable to the teams he played for, providing them with a reliable starting pitcher throughout his career.
After retiring from professional baseball, Goltz's legacy in the sport remains tied to his consistent performance and contributions to the teams he played for. His career in MLB is remembered for the solid numbers he posted and the leadership he provided as a veteran pitcher. Goltz's journey from a 5th-round draft pick to a 20-game winner in the major leagues exemplifies his development and success as a professional baseball player.
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