Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Farewell to The Duke

Former Tiger pitcher Earl Wilson, 70, died Saturday. He was a member of the 1968 world championship team and compiled a 64-45 record with 3.18 ERA for Detroit over five seasons. He tied for the AL lead in wins with 22 in 1967.

He also was a very good hitting pitcher. In 1966, Wilson batted .240 with 7 HR and 22 RBI. He hit 7 HR again in 1968 -- and no other pitcher has reached that mark since then. He also was the first black player signed by the Boston Red Sox, although Pumpsie Green was the first black to play for the Red Sox.

In 1962, Wilson tossed a no-hitter for Boston against the Angels and homered in the same contest.

He was the longtime president of Baseball Assistance Team (BAT), an organization which helps indigent former players.

Farewell to The Duke.

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