Byrne began his professional baseball career with the Yankees in 1943. He was known for his powerful fastball, but he also had a reputation for being wild and unpredictable, leading the American League in walks for four seasons. Despite this, he was an integral part of the Yankees' pitching staff, helping the team to win several World Series championships.
Byrne's best season came in 1955 when he posted a record of 16-5, leading the league in winning percentage. He was also selected to the All-Star team that year. In the 1955 World Series, Byrne pitched a complete game victory in Game 2 against the Brooklyn Dodgers, although the Yankees eventually lost the series.
In addition to his pitching skills, Byrne was also a competent hitter. He had a career batting average of .238 with 14 home runs, which is impressive for a pitcher. His hitting prowess was on full display in the 1957 World Series when he hit a home run in Game 2, becoming one of the few pitchers in history to achieve this feat.
Byrne's career with the Yankees ended in 1957, but he continued to play in the major leagues for several more years. He had brief stints with the Washington Senators, the Chicago White Sox, and the St. Louis Cardinals before retiring in 1957.
Despite his sometimes erratic pitching, Byrne was a key player for the Yankees during a period of dominance in the 1950s. He finished his career with a record of 85-69, a 4.11 earned run average, and 766 strikeouts. His contributions to the Yankees' success during this era have ensured his place in the annals of baseball history.
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