Holtzman's MLB journey began with the Chicago Cubs, where he made his debut in 1965. He quickly became a mainstay in the Cubs' rotation, showcasing his pitching prowess. One of the most notable achievements of his early career was throwing a no-hitter against the Atlanta Braves in 1969, a season in which the Cubs contended for the National League pennant but ultimately fell short in a historic collapse.
In 1971, Holtzman repeated his no-hit feat, this time against the Cincinnati Reds, becoming one of the few pitchers in MLB history to throw multiple no-hitters. His success with the Cubs, however, was not limited to these individual accomplishments. He was a consistent performer and a workhorse for the team, regularly pitching over 200 innings per season.
Holtzman's career took a significant turn in 1972 when he was traded to the Oakland Athletics. It was with the A's that he enjoyed the peak of his career, becoming a key component of one of baseball's dynasties. The A's, led by stars like Reggie Jackson and Catfish Hunter, won three consecutive World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. Holtzman contributed significantly to this success, particularly in the postseason, where he pitched effectively and helped secure crucial victories.
During his time with the Athletics, Holtzman continued to be a durable and effective starter. He won 19 games in both the 1972 and 1973 seasons and followed up with 18 wins in 1974, showcasing his consistency and endurance on the mound. His ability to perform under pressure was a hallmark of his time with the A's, and he was often at his best when the stakes were highest.
After his successful stint with Oakland, Holtzman's career included brief periods with the Baltimore Orioles, the New York Yankees, and a return to the Chicago Cubs before he retired. While with the Yankees, he added another World Series appearance to his resume in 1977, although his role was more limited compared to his prime years in Oakland.
Throughout his career, Holtzman was known for his smooth pitching motion and control. He was not an overpowering strikeout pitcher but instead relied on finesse, location, and a solid repertoire of pitches to get batters out. His approach to pitching was cerebral, and he was often praised for his game management and strategic thinking on the mound.
Ken Holtzman retired with a career record of 174-150, an ERA of 3.49, and 1,601 strikeouts. While he may not have been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his contributions to the teams he played for, especially during the Oakland Athletics' championship years, solidified his legacy as an important figure in baseball history. His postseason performances and multiple no-hitters are testaments to his skill and his place among the notable pitchers of his era.
⚾