Grimsley was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the first round of the 1969 amateur draft. He made his MLB debut with the Reds in 1971 and quickly established himself as a reliable pitcher. His tenure with the Reds included a trip to the World Series in 1972, where the team ultimately fell to the Oakland Athletics in a seven-game series. Despite the loss, Grimsley's performance during his early years with the Reds was a sign of his potential.
After the 1973 season, Grimsley was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, where he would enjoy the most productive years of his career. In 1974, he won 18 games, and the following year, he was selected to the American League All-Star team. His best season came in 1978 when he led the American League in wins with 20, becoming the first Oriole left-hander to win 20 games in a season since 1970. This achievement underscored Grimsley's skill and endurance as a starting pitcher.
Grimsley's approach to pitching was not about overpowering hitters with velocity; instead, he focused on control and movement, often frustrating batters with his off-speed pitches and ability to locate the ball. His craftiness on the mound was complemented by his work ethic and competitive nature, which made him a respected figure among his peers.
After his successful stint with the Orioles, Grimsley went on to play for the Montreal Expos. His time with the Expos was marked by solid performances, including a no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants on April 16, 1979. This no-hitter was a highlight of his career and showcased his ability to dominate a game when he was at his best.
Grimsley's career also included brief periods with the Cleveland Indians and the Chicago White Sox. While his time with these teams did not yield the same level of success as his earlier years, he continued to be a serviceable pitcher, providing innings and experience to the pitching staff.
Throughout his career, Grimsley was known for his durability, completing over 50 games and logging more than 2,000 innings pitched. His career statistics include 124 wins, a 3.81 ERA, and 1,100 strikeouts, reflecting his consistency and longevity in the major leagues.
After retiring from playing, Grimsley stayed connected to the game, working as a coach and scout. His knowledge of pitching and the nuances of the game made him a valuable resource for young players looking to make their mark in professional baseball.
Ross Grimsley's career may not have been filled with the accolades of some of his contemporaries, but his contributions to the teams he played for and his memorable character left a lasting impression on the game of baseball. His journey from a first-round draft pick to a 20-game winner in the major leagues is a testament to his talent and determination as a professional athlete.
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