Welch v. Hoot and Lefty
Just to be clear, the comparison is not even close. Gibson and Carlton are objectively and subjectively heads and shoulders (and not just the ones that Gibson used for target practice) ahead of Welch. When I read the sad news of his death, and remembering his efficient pitching, I checked out his stats and was surprised by his career winning percentage. Just goes to show that wins and losses are not only a reflection of the quality of the pitching but also a reflection of the quality of the team. But, Lefty did win 27 games in 1972 for a Phillies team that won only 59 total games.
That Youtube video of Welch vs Jackson brought back a lot of memories. Welch was fearless and Jackson swung so .....violently. And the umpire was holding his chest protector too!
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