Kline began his professional career with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1952. He spent seven seasons with the Pirates, where he initially struggled with control but gradually improved to become one of the team's most reliable pitchers. His best season with the Pirates came in 1956 when he recorded a career-high 14 wins.
In 1959, Kline was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he transitioned from a starting pitcher to a relief pitcher. This move proved to be a turning point in his career, as he excelled in this new role. He led the National League in saves in 1965 while playing for the Washington Senators, showcasing his ability to close out games effectively.
Kline also had stints with the Los Angeles Angels, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, and Minnesota Twins. His time with the Tigers was particularly noteworthy, as he played a crucial role in helping the team win the 1968 World Series. He pitched in three games during the series, allowing no runs in 5.2 innings.
Despite moving around frequently, Kline was a consistent performer throughout his career. He was known for his durability and ability to pitch in high-pressure situations. He finished his career with a record of 114 wins, 144 losses, and a 3.75 earned run average (ERA). He also recorded 108 saves, a testament to his effectiveness as a relief pitcher.
Kline retired from professional baseball in 1970. His career spanned a period of significant change in the sport, and he adapted well to these changes, transitioning roles and teams with relative ease. His contributions to the teams he played for were significant, and he left a lasting legacy in the sport.
In summary, Ron Kline was a versatile and reliable pitcher who had a successful career in Major League Baseball. He played for several teams and excelled in both starting and relief roles. His ability to adapt to different situations and perform consistently made him a valuable asset to his teams. His career is a testament to his skill, resilience, and dedication to the sport.
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Aug 17, 1957Aug 17, 1957
During the month of August 1957, the Pirates found themselves in a tight pennant race...
Pittsburgh Pirates vs Los Angeles Dodgers - Radio Broadcast / During the month of August 1957, the Pirates found themselves in a tight pennant race with the Milwaukee Braves. They were battling for the top spot in the league, and every game mattered. Led by legendary outfielder Roberto Clemente and slugger Hank Aaron, the Pirates and Braves engaged in an intense race that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The Dodgers, on the other hand, were also performing well in August. Led by their star player, Duke Snider, and bolstered by the strong pitching of Don Drysdale, the Dodgers were staying within striking distance of the leading teams.
Throughout the month, both the Pirates and Dodgers played numerous crucial games against each other and other top teams in the league. These matchups were closely contested, often decided by the narrowest of margins.
By the end of August 1957, the Pirates had managed to maintain their position in the race for the National League pennant. Their star players, like Clemente, delivered key performances to keep them in contention. However, the Dodgers were hot on their heels, determined to seize any opportunity to overtake the Pirates and secure the top spot.
As the season progressed, the Pirates and Dodgers continued to battle it out until the final games of the regular season. The race for the pennant remained incredibly tight, making the 1957 season one of the most memorable and exciting in baseball history. Ultimately, the team that prevailed would have the honor of competing in the World Series and contend for the championship title.