Tom Gordon, also known as "Flash," had a successful baseball career spanning over two decades. He began his career as a starting pitcher for the Kansas City Royals in 1988 and quickly established himself as a reliable arm in their rotation. In 1989, he was named the American League Rookie of the Year after posting a 17-9 record with a 3.64 ERA.
Gordon continued to pitch for the Royals for several more seasons before being traded to the Boston Red Sox in 1995. He spent three seasons with the Red Sox, primarily as a closer, and recorded 46 saves in 1998. In 1999, he signed with the Chicago Cubs and had another successful season as a closer, recording 27 saves.
After a brief stint with the Houston Astros in 2000, Gordon signed with the Chicago White Sox in 2001 and had one of the best seasons of his career. He recorded 46 saves and was named an All-Star for the second time in his career. He continued to pitch for the White Sox for two more seasons before being traded to the New York Yankees in 2004.
Gordon spent three seasons with the Yankees and was a key member of their bullpen during their 2004 playoff run. He recorded two saves in the American League Championship Series and helped the Yankees advance to the World Series. In 2006, he signed with the Philadelphia Phillies and spent three seasons with the team before retiring in 2009.
Throughout his career, Gordon was known for his fastball and devastating curveball. He recorded 158 saves and had a career ERA of 3.96. He was also a two-time All-Star and won the Rolaids Relief Man Award in 1998.
Off the field, Gordon was known for his charitable work and was named the 2006 Marvin Miller Man of the Year for his contributions to the community. He also founded the Tom Gordon Foundation, which provides educational and athletic opportunities for underprivileged youth.
Overall, Tom Gordon had a successful baseball career and was a reliable arm out of the bullpen for several teams throughout his 21-year career. He was a two-time All-Star and won several awards for his contributions to the game.
⚾