STEVE CARLTON (Full game video of Game 6, 1980 World Series)(TOP ROW--3RD FROM RIGHT) AND THE 1972 PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES--THE GREATEST SINGLE SEASON PITCHING PERFORMANCE IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL HISTORY--GAME BY GAME, BATTER BY BATTER
Dedication:
This essay is dedicated to all the players on the 1972 Phillies and
the other teams that Carlton faced who are no longer with us.
To quote Lawrence Ritter, who quoted The Book:
"All these were honored in their generation, and were the glory of their times." (Ecclesiastes 44:7)
Philadelphia Phillies
John Bateman, Catcher, 1940-1996
Roger Freed, Outfielder, 1st Base, 1946-1996
Deron Johnson, 1st Base, 1938-1992
Bill Robinson, Outfielder, 1943-2007
Joe Lis, 1st Base, Outfielder, 1946-2010
Oscar Gamble, Oufielder, 1949-2018
Mike Ryan, Catcher, 1941-2020
Billy Champion, Pitcher, 1947-2017
Woodie Fryman, Pitcher, 1940-2011
Wayne Twitchell, Pitcher 1948-2010
Barry Lersch, Pitcher, 1944-2009
Dick Selma, Pitcher, 1943-2001
Joe Hoerner, Pitcher, 1936-1996
Bill Wilson, Pitcher, 1942-1993
Chris Short, Pitcher, 1937-1991
Frank Luccesi, Manager, 1927-2019
Paul Owens, General Manager-Manager, 1924-2003
Brandy Davis, Coach, 1927-2005
Doc Edwards, Coach, 1936-2018
George Myatt, Coach, 1914-2000
Billy DeMars, Coach, 1925-2020 (Added January 22, 2021)
Mike Ryan, Catcher, 1941-2020 (Added March 11, 2023)
Denny Doyle, 2nd Base, 1944-2022 (Added March 11, 2023)
Ray Rippelmeyer, Coach, 1933-2022 (Added March 11, 2023)
Tim McCarver, Catcher (1941-2023) (Added March 11, 2023)
Pete Koegel, Outfield (1947-2023) (Added March 11, 2023)
Other Teams (only those who played in the games Carlton pitched).
Atlanta
Henry Aaron (H) 1934-2021 (Added January 22, 2021)
Phil Niekro (H) 1939-2020 (Added December 28, 2020)
Oscar Brown, Outfielder, 1946-2020 (Brother of Ollie Brown, see San Diego below)
Earl Williams, Catcher, 1948-2013
Paul Casanova, Catcher, 1941-2017
Cecil Upshaw, Pitcher, 1942-1995
Jim Hardin, Pitcher, 1943-1991
Tom Kelley, Pitcher, 1944-2015
Mike McQueen, Pitcher, 1950-2017
Chicago Cubs
Ron Santo(H), 3rd Base, 1940-2010
Glenn Beckert, 2nd Base, 1940-2020
Bill Hands, Pitcher, 1940-2017
Steve Hamilton, Pitcher, 1934-1997
Jim Hickman, Outfielder, 1937-2016
Tom Phoebus, Pitcher, 1942-2019
Milt Pappas, Pitcher, 1939-2016
Al Montreuil, 2nd Base, 1943-2008
Joe Decker, Pitcher, 1947-2003
Joe Pepitone, 1st Baseman, 1940-2023 (Added March 14, 2023)
Dan McGinn, Pitcher, 1943-2023 (Added March 17, 2023)
Juan Pizarro, Pitcher, 1937-2021 (Added June 2, 2023)
Cincinnati Reds
Joe Morgan(H), 2nd Base, 1943-2020
Ted Uhlaender, Outfielder, 1939-2009
Joe Hague, Oufielder, 1st Base, 1944-1994
Ed Sprague, Pitcher, 1945-2020
Jim McGlothlin, Pitcher, 1943-1975
Dennis Menke (1940-2020) (Added January 22, 2021)
Bill Plummer, Catcher, 1947-2024 (Added March 22, 2024)
Houston Astros
Lee May, Outfielder, 1st Base, 1943-2017
Bob Watson, Outfielder, 1st Base, 1946-2020
Larry Howard, Catcher, 1945-2019
Jimmy Stewart, Infield, Outfield, 1939-2012
Jim (The Toy Cannon) Wynn, Outfield, 1942-2020
Don Wilson, Pitcher, 1945-1975
Jim Ray, Pitcher, 1944-2005
Jesus Alou, Outfield, 1942-2023 (Added March 11, 2023)
Los Angeles Dodgers
Hoyt Wilhelm(H), Pitcher, 1922-2002
Frank Robinson(H), Outfielder, 1935-2019
Don Sutton(H) 1945-2021 (Added January 22, 2021)
Willie Davis, Outfielder, 1940-2010
Dick Dietz, Catcher, 1941-2005
Pete Mikkelsen, Pitcher, 1939-2006
Bill Buckner, Outfielder, 1st Base, 1949-2019
Chris Cannizzaro, Catcher, 1938-2016
Jim Brewer, Pitcher, 1937-1987
Montreal Expos
Clyde Mashore, Outfielder, 1945-2016
Bob Bailey, Outfielder, 3rd Base, 1942-2018
John Strohmayer, Pitcher, 1946-2019
Hal Breeden, 1st Base, 1944-2021 (Added March 11, 2023)
Mike Marshall, Pitcher, 1943-2021 (Added March 11, 2023)
Tom Walker, Pitcher, 1948-2023 (Added November 3, 2023)
New York Mets
Tom Seaver(H), Pitcher, 1944-2020
Tommie Agee, Outfielder, 1942-2001
Rusty Staub, Outfielder, 1st Base, 1944-2018
Jim Fregosi, Shortstop, 1942-2014
Jim Beauchamp, 1st Base, Outfield, 1939-2007
Danny Frisella, Pitcher, 1946-1977
Dave Marshall, Outfielder, 1943-2019
Ray Sadeki, Pitcher, 1940-2014
John Milner, 1st Base, Oufielder, 1949-2000
Tug McGraw, Pitcher, 1944-2004
Jerry Grote, Catcher, 1942-1924 (Added April 13, 2024)
Pittsburgh Pirates
Roberto Clemente(H), Outfielder, 1934-1972
Willie Stargell(H), Outfielder, 1st Base, 1940-2001
Jose Pagan, Shortstop, 3rd Base, 1935-2011
Nelson Briles, Pitcher, 1943-2005
Jackie Hernandez, Shortstop, 1940-2019
Doc Ellis, Pitcher, 1945-2008
Bob Moose, Pitcher, 1947-1976
Ramon Hernandez, Pitcher, 1940-2009
Rennie Stennett, Outfielder, 2nd Base, 1949-2021 (Added March 11, 2023)
Gene Clines, Outfielder, 1946-2022 (Added March 11, 2023)
Maury Wills, Shortstop, 1932-2022 (Added March 11, 2023)
St. Louis Cardinals
Bob Gibson(H) Pitcher, 1935-2020
Lou Brock(H) Outfielder, 1939-2020
Matty Alou, Outfielder, 1938-2011
Donn Clendenon, 1st Base, 1935-2005
Marty Martinez, Shortstop, 1941-2007
Ray Bare, Pitcher, 1949-1994
Moe Drabowsky, Pitcher, 1935-2006
Ken Reitz, 3rd Base, Shortstop, 2nd Base, 1951-2021 (Added March 11, 2023)
San Diego Padres
Enzo Hernandez, Shortstop, 1949-2013
Ollie Brown, Outfielder, 1944-2015 (Brother of Oscar Brown, Atlanta, Above)
Bob Barton, Catcher, 1941-2018
Steve Arlin, Pitcher, 1945-2016
Clay Kirby, Pitcher, 1948-1991
Nate Colbert, 1st Base, 1946-2023 (Added March 11, 2023)
Pat Corrales, Catcher, 1941-2023 (Added September 8, 2023)
Mike Corkins, Pitcher, 1946-2023 (Added December 18, 2023)
San Francisco Giants
Willie McCovey(H), 1st Base, 1938-2018
Bobby Bonds, Outfielder, 1946-2003
Russ Gibson, Catcher, 1939-2008
Al Gallagher, 3rd Base, 1945-2018
Don McMahon, Pitcher, 1930-1987
Jerry Johnson, Pitcher, 1943-2021 (Added March 11, 2023)
=======================
Note: The linescores and scorecards below are rendered in Courier typeface. They line up on a laptop or desktop. On a mobile, landscape will line up correctly but the lines may overlap. Landscape Readerview usually doesn't contain overlaps, but the lines don't exactly line up. Portrait will make the Courier almost unreadable.
Note: Source for all box scores, play by plays, and statistics is retrosheet.org
The information used here was obtained free of charge from and is copyrighted by Retrosheet. Interested parties may contact Retrosheet at "www.retrosheet.org"
Note: Source for all ballpark data and photos is Clem's Baseball Blog, a quite amazing compendium.
Note: Source for all baseball personnel links, unless otherwise specifically stated, is the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) Biography Project. As of June 1, 2020 there are 5,208 entries in the project, covering players, ballparks, broadcasters, executives, games, managers, scouts, spouses, and umpires, among others. This is a staggering resource.
Steve Carlton (Hall of Fame--all players below who are in the Hall of Fame will have (H) next to their names) and the 1972 Philadelphia Phillies. Game by game. Batter by batter. The greatest pitching performance in Major League History.
That is quite a startling claim, especially in these days of hyper statistical analysis. Is it true? After all, Jack Chesbro (H) was 41-12 on a team that won 92 games in 1904, Ed Walsh (H) was 40-15 on a team that won 88 games in 1908. In 1913 Walter Johnson (H) was 36-7 on a team that won 90 games. In 1931 Bob "Lefty" Grove was 31-4 on a team that won 107 games. Those were great pitchers on winning teams.
On the other side of the coin, Ned Garver was 20-12 on a team that lost 102 games in 1951, the only pitcher ever to win 20 games on a team that lost 100. In 1911 Walter Johnson was 25-13 on a team that lost 90 games. In 1930 Ted Lyons (H) was 22-15 on a team that lost 92 games. In 1939 Dutch Leonard was 20-8 on a team that lost 87 games. Johnny Antonelli was 20-13 on at team that lost 87 games in 1956. Randy Jones was 20-12 on a team that lost 91 games in 1975.
Today wins are not seen as the "coin of the realm" as far as pitchers go. Something called Wins Above Replacement (1) (2) (1 and 2: Fan Graphs) (3) (Baseball Reference) (4) (5) (6) (4-6: Baseball Perspectus) is. It is a concept I don't understand because it is an iteration of over 10 formulas. I have never seen one actually constructed, step by step, and so, for me, it is incomprehensible. But it is surely the "coin of the realm" today. How else explain Jacob de Grom's (Wikipedia) winning consecutive Cy Young Awards when his total record for the 2 years was 21-17. No need to get into that here. But for the Sabrmetricians out there, Carlton's 1972 Pitcher's WAR was the 2nd highest of the live ball era.
When Steve Carlton played, wins were the coin of the realm.
In 1972, on an awful Phillies team that was 59-97 (they only played 156 games due to the 1st ever MLB players strike):
The basic numbers.
Carlton: 41 starts (26.3% of the schedule); 30 complete games (70.2% of the starts); 27 wins (45.7% of the team's wins); 10 losses (10.3% of the team's losses); 346 innings (led the National League by 64 innings over 2nd place Phil Niekro (H)--a knuckle ball pitcher--only Wilber Wood--another knuckleball pitcher, at 377 innings, pitched more innings--Wood did this in 49 starts--Gaylord Perry (H) was the only other non-knuckleballer who came close, with 344 innings in 41 starts); 257 hits; 87 walks, 310 strikeouts (led NL by 61 over 2nd place Tom Seaver (2--near perfect game in 1969) (H)--2nd in MLB to Nolan Ryan's (H) 329); 8 shutouts (2nd in NL to Don Sutton's (H) 9); Earned Run Average 1.98 (led NL by .01 over Gary Nolan, 3rd in MLB to Louis Tiant's 1.91 and Gaylord Perry 1.92)
If he had thrown 41 complete 9 inning games, Carlton would have pitched 369 innings. At 346 innings this comes out approximately 8 + innings per game. Of course this is an estimate, but still an astonishing feat.
Those numbers would be fantastic on a good team. Carlton's team was anything but. In a 12 team league they were 11th in runs scored, 8th in batting and slugging average, 3rd in (most) strikeouts, 8th in (fewest) walks, 11th in stolen bases, They were 2nd (fewest) in errors, 8th in double plays, 7th in total chances. Even with Carlton's superb season, the Phillies were 8th in earned run average, 4th in (most) strikeouts, 3rd in (most) walks, 8th in batting average against, 11th in saves.
They had worst record in the National League, 2nd worst in baseball. But that is not the whole story. The second worst team in the National League, the San Diego Padres, were 59-95. Their best starting pitcher, Clay Kirby was 12-14, and they had a 20 game loser, Steve Arlin. Carlton won 20 more games than anyone else on the Phillies staff. If his record had been, say 22-15 (see the 20 game winners on terrible teams above), they would have finished 54-102. If it had been 19-18, they would have finished 51-105. If his winning % would have been the same as the team's, he would have been about 16-21 (not a particularly bad record on a team of this caliber), they would have finished 48-108, a tidy .308. His monster season raised them from abominable to terrible.
In the games he pitched, the Phillies were 29-12 (.707--the 1927 Yankees played .714 ball). In the games he didn't they were 30-85 (.261--the 1962 Mets played .250 ball) (Drinking Coffee With a Fork: The Story of Steve Carlton and the 1972 Phillies, by Steve Bucci and Dave Brown, P. 215. [2011]). Note: Quotes from this book will by listed as "BB" in the narrative.
It was, I think, the greatest single season for a pitcher in major league history. You may disagree. No problem.
What the rest of this blog is going to do is try to deconstruct each start he had so that you can see the contours of his season. I will be using Retrosheet.org's play by play and box scores for the season. I will keep track of what the Phillies' record going into each start was, his ground ball to fly ball ratio, and where he had the batters making outs when he wasn't striking them out. Seven of the cities he played in (Pittsburgh, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Montreal, Cincinnati, and St. Louis) have an online newspaper presence. I will point to relevant stories when available.
Carlton's win-loss "line score" (condensed)
3-0; 3-1; 5-1; 5-6; 5-6; 7-6; 7-6; 7-6; 12-6; 12-6; 20-6; 20-7; 21-7; 21-8; 23-8; 23-9; 25-9; 25-10; 27-10
+3; +2; +4; -1; -1; +1; +1; +1; +6; +6; +14; +13; +14; +13; +15; +14; +16; +15; +17
Phillies line score:
1-0; 1-2; 3-2; 3-3; 5-3; 5-4; 7-4; 7-5; 10-5; 10-6; 12-6; 12-7; 13-7; 13-8; 14-8; 14-10; 15-10; 15-20; 16-20; 16-29; 19-29; 19-30; 20-30; 20-36; 21-36; 21-38; 22-38; 22-40; 23-40; 23-41; 24-41; 24-45; 25-45; 25-47; 26-47; 26-51; 28-51; 28-53; 29-53; 29-55; 30-55; 30-57; 31-57; 31-58; 34-58; 34-62; 39-62; 39-64; 40-64; 40-66; 41-66; 41-69; 42-69; 42-70; 43-70; 43-75; 44-75; 44-79; 45-79; 45-81; 47-81; 47-83; 49-83; 49-89; 52-89; 52-90; 55-90; 55-94; 57-94; 57-97; 59-97
Steve Carlton (H) was a left-handed pitcher: (6'4", 210 lb: 329-244, 3.22, 2 saves, 1965-1988).
Note: Source for all Pitcher's repertoires, unless otherwise specifically stated, is The Neyer-James Guide to Pitchers: An Historical Compendium of Pitching, Pitchers, and Pitches, by Bill James and Rob Neyer (2004).
Carlton's Repertoire (circa 1972)
1. Rising Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Slider
Carlton did not perfect the devastating Slider that helped put him in the Hall of Fame as his "go to" pitch until 1974. (NJ, P. 157)
Arm angle: Curve: overhand; Slider: three quarter; Fastball: either way
NJ rate Carlton's fastball as the 4th best of the 1970-74 half decade (P. 30) and the best slider of all time (P. 38).
Carlton's motion:
"Carlton had classic form on the mound. He began his motion with his head down, which helped him keep his weight forward. As he brought his right leg up, his head would rise, too, and he lifted his right knee almost to shoulder height as he rocked into his windup. Pivoting on his left leg, he brought his left arm forward and whipped the ball with an easy pinwheel motion, the throwing arm ending up below his right hip before whip lashing back into proper defensive position.
Lefty's grip was a bit unorthodox but effective. He held the ball out toward his fingertips, keeping the index and middle fingers near each other at the very top of the ball. He generally threw his curve almost straight overhand, his slider about three--quarter arm. Because he threw the fastball equally well from either motion, batters couldn't figure out what pitch was coming simply by following his delivery." (Baseball's Greatest Players: The Saga Continues, by David Shiner, quoted in NJ, P. 157).
In 1972, "there were some who thought that each (emphasis in the original) of Carlton's three pitches was as good as the best pitch of almost any other pitcher in the majors. It's also worth noting that in the early '70s, many considered Carlton's curve ball the best in the majors." (NJ, P. 157).
Here is what his delivery looked like. (Hall of Fame Youtube).
---
"I wasn't raised in this environment, so I think differently. These guys don't know anything but pitch counts. I would balk at it because I don't agree with it, but they can't go up against it because that's all they know. Philosophically I don't agree with it because I think these guys are not really in shape because they don't throw enough.
"You need to throw so much so the tendons, ligaments, the muscle and bone get bigger, denser, stronger to be able to handle the stress of throwing. I don't think they throw enough. 100 pitches is not a lot. You warm up with 100 pitches. Then you throw your 200. We threw 185 pitches in a game."
Steve Carlton, on the occasion of being the guest of honor at a AAA International League minor league game between the Phillies AAA affiliate Lehigh Valley IronPigs and the Toronto Blue Jays affiliate Buffalo Bisons in 2017. (Source: lehighvalleylive.com)
==================
Records Win-Loss-No Decision--(Carlton's Pitch Count Estimate)
Carlton v
Ferguson Jenkins* (H) (R): 1-0 (111)
Bob Gibson^ (H) (R): 1-0 (103);
Juan Marichal! (H) (R): 1-0 (116);
Steve Arlin (R): 0-1 (133)
Bill Singer (R): 1-0 (125)
Ron Bryant (L): 1-0 (131)
Claude Osteen (L): 0-1 (116)
Bill Hands (R): 0-1 (124)
Tom Seaver% (H): (R) 0-1 (136)
Nelson Briles (R): 0-1 (141)
Jon Matlack (L): 0-1 (95);
Wayne Simpson (R): 0-0-1 (110)
Jerry Reuss (L) 1-0 (115)
Ron Reed (R) 1-0 (131);
Don Wilson (R) 0-0-1 (152)
Ron Reed (R) 1-0-1 (85)
Ernie McAnally (R) 1-0 (133)
Gary Gentry (R) 1-0 (171--actual, 161--estimate)
Don Carrithers (R) 1-0 (122)
Mike Corkins (R) 1-0 (130)
Don Sutton (H) (R) 1-0 (130)
Frank Reberger (R) 0-0-1 (76)
Clay Kirby (R) (1-0) (153)
Tommie John (L) (1-0) (107--actual [77 for strikes], 123--estimate)
Pitched 1 inning in the 1972 All Star Game (see below for video)
Milt Pappas (R) 1-0 (118)
Jerry Koosman (L) 1-0 (115)
Reggie Cleveland (R) 1-0 (115)
Steve Blass (R) 1-0 (113 actual--86 in the 1st 8 innings and 27 in the 9th [see below], 119--estimate)
Ernie McAnally (R) 2-0 (124)
Ross Grimsley (L) 1-0 (134)
P. Niekro (H)(R) 0-1 (163)
Jim McGlothlin (R) 1-0 (127)
Jerry Reuss (L) 1-1 (96)
Jim Hardin (R) 1-0(118)
Al Santorini (R) 1-0 (137)
Jerry Koosman (L) 1-1 (150 actual--BB P. 195) (138--estimate)
Mike Torrez (R) 1-0 (145)
Rick Wise (R) 1-0 (115 actual--120--estimate)
Tom Seaver%(H) (R) 0-2 (109)
Bob Moose (R) 1-0 (125)
Dan McGinn (L) 1-0 (138)
*=1971 NL Cy Young Award
^=5th place in voting for 1971 CYA
!=8th place in voting for 1971 CYA
%=2nd place in voting for 1971 CYA
Source for Cy Young Award voting for 1972: baseballreference.com
41 starts (30 complete games): 5,085 estimated pitches (using 171, 107, 113, 150, and 115 actual pitches for Starts 18, 24, 28, 35, and 38 respectively): Average: 124 pitches per start. Most=171, Least=76 (1,351 batters faced--average of 33 batters per start--3 3/4 times through the lineup)
170-179=1
160-169=1
150-159=3
140-149=2
130-139=10
120-129=6
110-119=11
100-109=3
90-99=2
80-89=1
70-79=1
41 starts: Carlton v Cubs: 3-1; v Cardinals 4-0; v Giants; 3-0-1; v Padres 2-1; v Dodgers 3-1; v Mets 2-4; v Pirates 2-1; v Reds 2-0-1; v Astros 1-1-1; v Atlanta 2-1-1; v Expos 3-0
===
Note: As you read Carlton's starts below, you may be asking "What were his pitch counts?" We have little actual data, but I found a formula for calculating pitch count estimates based on a lot of theory that I don't understand (see Part 2 below), and some data that I do (see Parts 1, 3, 4, and 5 below). The data were collected by Allen Roth, baseball's first professional statistician. He collected pitch count data for every Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers game (with the exception of 2 weeks in 1951 when he was scouting the New York Giants) from 1947-1964. The data for those years (not sure about all of them) is available in electronic format at Retrosheet.org. Before 1947, pitch count data was almost non-existent. It has been tracked since 1988 and has been an official MLB statistic since 1999. For seasons not available the formula was originally derived by Tom Tango. For details on the derivation see: (Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5). The simple formula is available at Wikipedia.
As far as I know, it is the formula still used today (if I am wrong about this, please send a correction to jbsolock1@gmail.com)
Here is the formula: (3.3*Plate Appearances) + (1.5*Strikeouts) + (2.2*Walks) This means that the "average" plate appearance where the ball is put in play is 3.3 pitches, for a strikeout 4.8, and for a walk 5.5. These numbers, obviously, don't fit in today's game, but the formula isn't needed for today's game because actual counts are now kept.
Note: the pitch count estimates using the basic formula can be refined by using Tango's refined PCE (which deal with the number of balls in play for each at bat outcome) formulas. The problem is that it would take me longer to set up the spreadsheets needed to do this than the refined estimates would be worth, for purposes of this essay. From the little work that I have done on this, it appears that the basic estimates are a bit high. If you want to see how high (or low--my sample size was one--Start 25--118 v 109, when I decided it wasn't worth the time), I urge you to study Part 2 above and then plug the numbers into a spreadsheet and see for yourself.
Raw data is available for all of these variables below. So far, as of Carlton's September 20th start, we have actual pitch count data for 5 starts (see Starts 38, 36, 28, 24 and 18 below). For those starts, the formula yields 5 less, 12 less, 6 more, 16 more, and 10 less pitches respectively, than the newspaper and book accounts said Carlton actually threw (115, 150, 113, 107 and 171). Ultimately, whether these estimates mean anything or not, I do not know. But they may give some idea of Carlton's work load. The heavy burden cut his career to only 15 more years after this season. Pitch count estimate data is listed on the first line under "For this game" below the scorecard for each start. It is highlighted in red.
*=1971 NL Cy Young Award
^=5th place in voting for 1971 CYA
!=8th place in voting for 1971 CYA
%=2nd place in voting for 1971 CYA
Source for Cy Young Award voting for 1972: baseballreference.com
41 starts (30 complete games): 5,085 estimated pitches (using 171, 107, 113, 150, and 115 actual pitches for Starts 18, 24, 28, 35, and 38 respectively): Average: 124 pitches per start. Most=171, Least=76 (1,351 batters faced--average of 33 batters per start--3 3/4 times through the lineup)
170-179=1
160-169=1
150-159=3
140-149=2
130-139=10
120-129=6
110-119=11
100-109=3
90-99=2
80-89=1
70-79=1
41 starts: Carlton v Cubs: 3-1; v Cardinals 4-0; v Giants; 3-0-1; v Padres 2-1; v Dodgers 3-1; v Mets 2-4; v Pirates 2-1; v Reds 2-0-1; v Astros 1-1-1; v Atlanta 2-1-1; v Expos 3-0
===
Note: As you read Carlton's starts below, you may be asking "What were his pitch counts?" We have little actual data, but I found a formula for calculating pitch count estimates based on a lot of theory that I don't understand (see Part 2 below), and some data that I do (see Parts 1, 3, 4, and 5 below). The data were collected by Allen Roth, baseball's first professional statistician. He collected pitch count data for every Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers game (with the exception of 2 weeks in 1951 when he was scouting the New York Giants) from 1947-1964. The data for those years (not sure about all of them) is available in electronic format at Retrosheet.org. Before 1947, pitch count data was almost non-existent. It has been tracked since 1988 and has been an official MLB statistic since 1999. For seasons not available the formula was originally derived by Tom Tango. For details on the derivation see: (Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 4) (Part 5). The simple formula is available at Wikipedia.
As far as I know, it is the formula still used today (if I am wrong about this, please send a correction to jbsolock1@gmail.com)
Here is the formula: (3.3*Plate Appearances) + (1.5*Strikeouts) + (2.2*Walks) This means that the "average" plate appearance where the ball is put in play is 3.3 pitches, for a strikeout 4.8, and for a walk 5.5. These numbers, obviously, don't fit in today's game, but the formula isn't needed for today's game because actual counts are now kept.
Note: the pitch count estimates using the basic formula can be refined by using Tango's refined PCE (which deal with the number of balls in play for each at bat outcome) formulas. The problem is that it would take me longer to set up the spreadsheets needed to do this than the refined estimates would be worth, for purposes of this essay. From the little work that I have done on this, it appears that the basic estimates are a bit high. If you want to see how high (or low--my sample size was one--Start 25--118 v 109, when I decided it wasn't worth the time), I urge you to study Part 2 above and then plug the numbers into a spreadsheet and see for yourself.
Raw data is available for all of these variables below. So far, as of Carlton's September 20th start, we have actual pitch count data for 5 starts (see Starts 38, 36, 28, 24 and 18 below). For those starts, the formula yields 5 less, 12 less, 6 more, 16 more, and 10 less pitches respectively, than the newspaper and book accounts said Carlton actually threw (115, 150, 113, 107 and 171). Ultimately, whether these estimates mean anything or not, I do not know. But they may give some idea of Carlton's work load. The heavy burden cut his career to only 15 more years after this season. Pitch count estimate data is listed on the first line under "For this game" below the scorecard for each start. It is highlighted in red.
Note: If you wish to follow the season in "real time", start from the bottom and read up. This essay was written, for the most part, in real time, during April-October 2020.
Note: Index to other non-Carlton season personnel discussed:
George Weiss General Manager, New York Yankees--Start 29
Billy Williams(H), Chicago Cubs, won batting title in 1972--Start 21
Danny MacFayden, Pitcher for some of the best and worst teams in MLB history--Start 32
===============
Start 41
October 3 at Chicago Wrigley Field Phi 11 Chi 1 Carlton 27-10 (1.97) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Dan McGinn (L) (0-5) 5.89 Dan McGinn in action (Keep watching the video and you'll see McGinn hit the first home run in Expos history--on Opening Day in New York against Tom Seaver of the Mets). Six days later he was also the winning pitcher and drove in the winning run in the Expos' first home game, against the Cardinals.
The Phillies closed the season as they had opened it (see Start 1), with a win against the Cubs. Most of the Cubs' starters sat out the game or pinch hit. Carlton pitched his 30th complete game and won his 27th, striking out 7 and walking 1 He finished the season with 310 strikeouts in 346 1/3 innings. In his last five starts he gave up 8 runs, 4 of them earned, walked 6 (1 intentionally), and struck out 31. He finished strong, with 5 complete games of (estimated or actual), 145, 115a, 109, 125, and 138 pitches. The Phillies gave him the most support in a complete game that he received all year, bombing four Cub pitchers for 11 earned runs, including back to back home runs by Don Money and Greg Luzinski twice. The game was played in front of an intimate crowd of 2,264.
For the year, the Phillies gave Carlton 136 runs of support in 41 starts (58 of those runs in 7 of the starts).
Dan McGinn Repertoire: (6'0", 185 lbs, 15-30, 5.11, 10 saves, 1968-1972)
Key pitch: Sinker (Source: The Summer Game, by Roger Angell, 1972, via NJ, P. 302).
McGinn never had a winning season. His best year was 1969, with Montreal, when he was 7-10 with 6 saves in 132.1 innings. But he will be forever linked to them due to his contributions at the birth of the franchise. This was his last game in MLB.
Arm action: three quarters
======
It has already been said above, but it is a fact that must be repeated. In the games Carlton pitched the Phillies were 29-12 (approximately the same winning percentage as the 1927 New York Yankees). In the games he didn't pitch they were 30-85 (approximately the winning percentage of the 1962 New York Mets). He won 46 percent of the games the team won. Ed Walsh, (1908) in the modern era (1901--), is the only pitcher who has come close to that. A 15 game winning streak and then a final four starts of utter dominance (though he won only 3 of them) during which, when most pitchers would be exhausted, he averaged an estimated 122 pitches per start, completing all 4 games, add up to the greatest and most astonishing single season performance by a pitcher in Major League history. Only one pitcher (Bob Welch of the 1990 Oakland A's, a team that won 103 games and an American League Pennant) has won 27 games in the 48 years since Carlton's great season.
BB spends an entire chapter (18--The Case for Carlton--P. 211-222) comparing his season with the following pitchers (the book was written in 2011). The variables are based on a conversation with Bill James.
"The first five things I look at are wins, losses, walks, strikeouts, and ERA, and the 6th would be innings pitched." (BB, P. 215). (Interestingly, this shows how the quantitative study of the value of pitchers has evolved in just the last 10 years. Particularly with respect to wins, losses, and innings pitched. Today a starting pitcher's value is determined by how he gets his outs. The less intervention by the team defense, "fielding independent pitching", the better. Today strikeouts are the key determinant in assessing a starting pitcher's value).
*=300 Game Winner
1972 STEVE CARLTON* (H) (PHILADELPHIA-N) 27-10; 1.97 ERA, 87 W; 310 K, 346.1 INNINGS--TEAM--59-97 (-38): 6TH (OF 6) NLE -37.5 G
1901: Cy Young* (H) (Boston-A) 33-10; 1.62 ERA; 37 W; 158 K; 371.1 Innings--Team--77-60 (+17) ; 3rd; -6.5 g Aspects of Young's motion in still photos
1905: Christy Mathewson* (H) (NY Giants-N) 31-8; 1.27 ERA; 64 W; 206 K; 338.2 Innings--Team--105-48 (+57); 1st; +9 g (Won World Series--Mathewson pitched 3 shutouts in the Series). Archival footage of Christy Mathewson pitching, ca. 1905-1906
1913: Walter Johnson* (H) (Washington-A) 36-7; 1.14 ERA; 38 W; 243 K; 346 Innings--Team--90-64 (+26); 2nd; -6.5 g Archival footage from Game 7, 1924 World Series. Johnson came into the game in the 10th inning and threw 3 shutout innings as Washington won its first ever World Series. He was 36 at the time. (Kinograms via US Libary of Congress). Johnson in slow motion
1924: Arthur (Dazzy) Vance (H) (Brooklyn-N) 28-6; 2.16 ERA; 77 W; 262 K; 308 Innings--Team--92-62 (+30); 2nd -1.5 g Vance's motion in still photos
1931: Bob (Lefty) Grove* (H) (Philadelphia-A) 31-4; 2.06 ERA; 62 W; 175 K; 288.2 Innings--Team--107-45 (+62); 1st; +13.5 g Lefty shows off the heat, Spring Training, 1931
1945: Hal Newhouser (H) (Detroit-A) 25-9; 1.81 ERA; 110 W; 212 K; 313 Innings--Team--88-65 (+23); 1st +1.5 g (Won World Series) Video highlights of 1945 World Series--narrated by Bob Elson : Newhouser pitched 1st, 5th, and 7th games
1965: Sandy Koufax (H) (Los Angeles-N) 26-8; 2.04 ERA; 71 W; 382 K; 335.2 Innings--Team--97-65 (+32): 1st +2 g (Won World Series) (Full game video of Game 7, 1965 World Series--Vin Scully and Ray Scott on the call)
1968: Denny McLain (Detroit-A) 31-6; 1.96 ERA; 63 W; 280 K; 336 Innings--Team--103-59 (+44): 1st +12 g (Won World Series) (Full game video of Game 1, 1968 World Series--Curt Gowdy and Harry Caray on the call ( McClain Bob Gibson)
1968: Bob Gibson (H) (St.Louis-N) 22-9; 1.12 ERA; 62 W; 268 K; 304.2 Innings--Team--97-65 (+32); 1st +9 g
1978: Ron Guidry (New York-A) 25-3; 1.74 ERA; 72 W; 248 K; 273.2 Innings--Team--100-63 (+37): 1st ALE +1 g (Won Pennant and World Series) Video highlights of Guidry's 18 strikout performance v California Angels, June, 17, 1978
1985: Dwight Gooden (New York Mets-N) 24-4; 1.53 ERA; 69 W; 268 K; 276.2 Innings--Team--98-64 (+34): 2nd NLE -3 g Full game video of Mets Eastern Division Championship clinching game, Sept. 17, 1986
1986: Roger Clemens* (Boston-A) 24-4; 2.48 ERA; 67 W; 238 K; 254 Innings--Team--95-66 (+29); 1st ALE + 5.5 g (Won Pennant) Full game video of Clemens' 20 strikeout game v Seattle, April 29, 1986
1995: Greg Maddux* (H) (Atlanta-N) 19-2; 1.63 ERA; 23 W, 181 K; 209.2 Innings--Team--90-54 (+36): 1st NLE; +21 g (Won Pennant and World Series) Video of each out Maddux got: Game 2, 1996 World Series
1999: Pedro Martinez (H) (Boston-A) 23-4; 2.07 ERA; 37 W; 313 K; 213.1 Innings--Team--94-68 (+26): 2nd ALE -4.0 (AL Wild Card) Video of last pitch of each of Martinez' 17 strikeouts v New York Yankees, September 10, 1999
2002: Randy Johnson* (H) (Arizona-N) 24-5; 2.32 ERA; 71 W; 334 K; 260 Innings--Team--98-64 (+34): 1st NLW +2.5 g (Division Champion) Full game video Johnson 2001 NLCS Game 1 v Maddux, October 16, 2001
To this I would add 3 other pitchers from the last decade.
2013: Max Scherzer (Wikipedia) (Detroit-A) 21-3; 2.90 ERA; 56 W; 240 K; 214.1 Innings--Team--93-69 (+24): 1st ALC +1.0 (Division Series Winner) Video highlights of Game 6 ALCS v Boston, October 19, 2013
2014: Clayton Kershaw (Wikipedia) (Los Angeles-N) 21-3; 1.77 ERA; 31 W; 231 K; 239 Innings--Team--94-68 (+26); 1st NLW +6.0 g. (Division Champion) Career Highlights
2018 Blake Snell (Wikipedia) (Tampa Bay-A) 21-5; 1.89 ERA 64 W; 221 K; 180.2 Innings--Team--90-72 (+18); 3rd ALE -18.0 g 2018 Highlight reel
There are, of course, others that could be on this list, but this is a pretty good sample, in my opinion. Many variables change in importance over time and so are not easily comparable. However one variable is comparable over time. Team wins and losses.
Average +.500 of the 18 teams the "great pitchers" were members of=+33 (97.5-64.5 for a 162 game season--93.5-60.5 for a 154 game season). 6 World Championships; 9 Pennants; 6 Division Championships. Carlton: -38--59-97, 6th (last) place, 37.5 games out of 1st place, 11 games out of 5th place. The team context is what makes Carlton's performance the best single season performance by a pitcher in in MLB history, By far. A slam dunk, in my opinion.
======
Phi 024 020 210--11-14-1--(57-97--58-97) 6 E -38.5 g
Chi 000 000 010---1--9-1--(85-68--85-69) 2 E -11.0 g
Time: 2:07; Attendance: 2,264; Tuesday day game: 1:30pm; Home plate umpire: Bob Engel (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). Engel had a rock solid 26 MLB umpiring career that ended under less than optimal circumstances. He was convicted for misdmeanor shoplifting 4,000 baseball cards from a Target store (Bakersfield (California) Times Obituary, March 10, 2018) in April of 1990 and retired early in that season. This year, he would work the 1972 World Series.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00-- 69F; 2:00--71; 3:00--73
Wind: 1:00--16MPH (from the S); 2:00--12(S); 3:00--14(S) Wind blowing out
Humidity: 1:00--64%; 2:00--63%; 3:00--63%
1:00--Mostly Cloudy; 2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Temperature: 1:00-- 69F; 2:00--71; 3:00--73
Wind: 1:00--16MPH (from the S); 2:00--12(S); 3:00--14(S) Wind blowing out
Humidity: 1:00--64%; 2:00--63%; 3:00--63%
1:00--Mostly Cloudy; 2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Game Stories
Chicago Tribune (proprietary): "Carlton nails 27th," by George Langford (October 4, P. D. 1)
Gettysburg Times: "Steve Carlton Matches Sandy Koufax's Left Handed Feat of 27 Wins As Phillies Clobber Cubs; Steve Blass Tries Wing" (Associated Press compendium of National League Games, October 4, P. 19)
Tribune Headline: "Vote Machine Waste Told," by William Curry (October 4, P. 1.)
Times Headline: "(Pennsylvania State) Senate OKs (Governor Milton) Shapp's Bill On No-Fault Car Insurance," by Larry Reibstein (Associated Press, October 4, P. 8.)
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Carlton finished his season in style, even if it was against a "AAA" Cub team. His job was made easier by a 6 home run, 14 hit attack. Only a two out single and double in the 8th inning kept him from his 9th shutout. He finished at 27-10. The Phillies won this game and their final game the next day to finish at 59-97.
The Cubs 3,4,5 hitters, Jim Tyrone, (Wikipedia), Carmen Fanzone , and Pat Bourque were 3-12 with 2 strikeouts and 1 RBI. The heart of the National League order finished with 87-440 (.198) with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 35 RBI. Carlton's ERA moved below 2.00 for the first time since May 17, (see Start 8 below) to finish at 1.97. He won the pitcher's "Triple Crown" with 27 wins, 310 strikeouts, and a 1.97 ERA. He also led the league in starts (41) complete games (30), innings pitched (346 1/3), batters faced (1,351), and consecutive games won (15). He had a winning record against every team in the League except the Mets.
Game story quotes:
From the Chicago Tribune.
"I'm tired--mentally and physically--and I'm done. I didn't feel like this was an easy victory at all. I kinda struggled. It's tough to go up against a lineup of unknowns, and those Cub kids handled the bats pretty well."
Steve Carlton
"I still thought I could win at least 25 with the Phillies when I was traded. That was my goal. And these players have been great. Some of the guys just don't believe enough in themselves. They are good, but they just have to strive for consistency. Today they proved what I've said, that they can hit the ball. I think the guys were really keyed up for this one."
Steve Carlton
"One reason for my better record this year [he was 20-9 last year at St. Louis with 210 strikeouts] is being able to start every 4th day. At St. Louis we had five good starters and Bob Gibson liked to pitch with four days rest. That meant a lot of times there were five or six days between starts. The only thing I'm going to throw from now until next spring training is a few snowballs at the kids."
Steve Carlton
"Carlton, who is earning about $85,000 [sic] this year, likely will make a pitch to become the Phillies first $100,000 player and Manager-General Manager Paul Owens already has indicated Carlton will receive at least that much."
George Langford, the Tribune's Cubs beat reporter.
From the Times
"Any time you're linked with Sandy Koufax, your in good company.
Steve Carlton
I'm glad it's over, but I certainly am completely pleased with my season."
Steve Carlton
"Right now I'm just going to relax and do some hunting. I haven't' given any thought to next season, but there's a lot of time to talk contract after I've rested a bit.
Steve Carlton
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B ([Switch Hitter]), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Cubs
1. B. North B,8......(1)f(9)..(3)1b(9)..(5)f(7)...(7)g(6-4).(9)g(5-4)
2. G. Hiser L,9......(1)f(8)..(3)g(3)...(5)g(4-6).(8)K......(9)f(5)*
3. J. Tyrone R,7.....(1)K.....(4)g(6-3).(5)g(6-4).(8)K
4. C. Fanzone R,5....(2)f(9)..(4)f(4)...(6)g(5-3).(8)1b(7)
5. P. Bourque L,3....(2)f(5)..(4)1b(7)..(6)f(4)...(8)2b(7)
6. K. Rudolph R,2....(2)1b(9).(4)1b(8)..(6)f(9)...(8)K
7. A. Montreuil R,4..(2)K.....(4)g(5-3).(7)e2&....(9)W
8. D. Rosello R, 6...(3)f(7)..(5)1b(6)..(7)f(6)...(9)K
9. D. McGinn L,1
9. D. Kessinger B,PH,(3)g(5-3)
9. L. Gura B, 1
9. G. Beckert R,PH............(5)1b(3)
9. C. Compton L,1%
9. P. Popovich B,PH.....................(7)K
9. J. Decker R,1
9. R. Hundley R,PH................................(9)1b(7)
9. P. LaCock L, PR
%=This was Clint Compton's (Wikipedia) first and only Major League game.
&=Montreuil reached on catcher's interference. Montreuil was not charged with an at bat.
*Foul ball
For Carlton
41 starts: 346 1/3 innings, 1,039 outs, 30 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 310 K, 308g, 367f(249 outfield, 118 infield), 7 unknown; 312 Pulled, 161 Up the middle, 209 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 25 double plays, 12 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 5 thrown out on the bases**)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 87 W (8 intentional); 258 hits (194 1b, 42 2b, 5 3b, 17HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 16 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 84 runs (76 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 258-1192(.216) +87 walks (8 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.00
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
===
Total batting average against should be 257/1199 (.214). The WHIP should be 0.99
Errata: My cumulative totals are close, but not exactly the same as the printed variables in Retrosheet. Obviously I have made errors. There are errors in the number of hits and at bats in Start 7 that I know of. They reverberate down through the rest of the games.
Note that small cumulative changes should be made in each entry from #7=#41 for individual statistics. I am not going to bother with that.
Here are the actual cumulative totals for variables I know I got wrong.
Hits given up: 257. At bats against: 1,199. 192 1b hits, 44 2b hits
I am sure there are other errors in the data I have presented. So this is not an exact rendering but hopefully a good "impression." I have spent all the time I'm going to spend on it. The errors do not in the least tarnish the brilliance of Carlton's season. I have done the best I could without the use of spreadsheets, computer programs, or anything more high tech than a hand calculator.
Als Ixh Xan--Jan Van Eyck (1434)
===
For this game.
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 1 Walks; 9 hits (2 infield, 7 outfield), (8 1b, 1 2b); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 5 opposite field; 1 error (catchers interference)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 38 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (38*3.3) + (7*1.5) + (1*2.2)=138
Cubs were 9-36
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 7K; 9g; 11f(5 infield, 6 outfield); 13 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field
---
Cubs right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 29: 7-27
Outs: 6K, 7g, 7f (2 infield, 5 outfield); 10 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 7 hits (2 infield, 5 outfield) (7 1b ); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 error--catcher's interference
Cubs left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 9: 2-9
Outs: 1K, 2g. 4f (3 infield, 1 outfield); 3 Pulled 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
Outs: 6K, 7g, 7f (2 infield, 5 outfield); 10 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 7 hits (2 infield, 5 outfield) (7 1b ); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 error--catcher's interference
Cubs left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 9: 2-9
Outs: 1K, 2g. 4f (3 infield, 1 outfield); 3 Pulled 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
On Base: 2 hits (2 outfield) ( (1 1b, 1 2b) 2 Opposite field
+++
Start 40
September 28 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium Phi 2 Pit 1 Carlton 26-10 (2.00)
Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Bob Moose (R) (12-10) (2.97)
Moose in action--Game 6, 1971 World Series
Carlton's 40th start was the Phillies last home game of the season. It drew a little over 12,000. They saw him at his best, pitching his 29th complete game, his third consecutive 2-1 decision. He came out on top in this one, striking out 11 Pirates and walking nobody. He gave up 6 hits and 1 unearned run. His 8th strikeout, Bob Robertson (Wikipedia), pinch hitting for Roberto Clemente (H) in the 6th inning, was his 300th of the year. It was the first time in franchise history a Phillies pitcher had struck out 300 batters. He was the 2nd pitcher in modern (1901--) National League history to strike out 300. Sandy Koufax (H) did it 3 times (1963, 65, and 66). It wasn't done again until J.R. Richard
(Wikipedia) (1978 and 79). Mike Scott (1986), Curt Schilling (1997) and Randy Johnson (H) (1999) were the only other pitchers to do it in the 20th Century. In the 21st Century it has been done by Johnson (2000-02), and Schilling (2002). (Source: baseballreference.com)
Carlton has now struck out 303 batters in 337 1/3 innings. He has received 125 runs of support in 40 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts).
Bob Moose's Repertoire: (6'0", 200 lbs, 76-71, 3.50, 19 saves, 1967-1976)
1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3: Knuckleball (used as a changeup) (Source: The Sporting News, August 10, 1968, Les Biederman); Pittsburgh Press, August 31, 1968, Biederman; TSN, November 29, 1969, Charley Feeney, via NJ, P. 314.)
"(Moose is) not overpoweringly fast, (but) has an excellent slider. (Major League Baseball--1969, by Jack Zanger).
Today Moose is remembered for the 9th inning of the 5th game of the 1972 National League Championship series. The Pirates were leading 3-2. After Pirates closer Dave Giusti gave up a lead off opposite field home run to League MVP Johnny Bench (H), Moose came in with 2 on and nobody out. He got two outs and then threw a wild pitch (MLB Youtube) to let in the pennant winning run. His career and life were cut short by a fatal car accident on his 29th birthday. His best year was 1969 when he was 14-3, 2.91. In the Pirates World Championship season of 1971, he was 11-7, 4.11 and pitched 5 solid innings in Game 6 of the World Series (see above). In 1972 he was 13-10, 4.53. He was plagued by arm trouble the last 3 years of his career.
Arm angle: three quarters
Pit 010 000 000--1-6-0--(94-55--94-56) 1 E +10.5
Phi 000 020 000--2-7-1--(55-94--56-94) 6 E -38.0
Time: 2:22; Attendance: 12,216; Thursday night game: 7:30 pm. Home plate umpire: Doug Harvey (H) (0 ejections in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--62F, 8:00--62, 9:00--61, 10:00--61
Wind: 7:00--13mph(Out of E), 8:00--13(E), 9:00--13(E), 10:00--9(ENE)
Blowing from left to right, and then in
Humidity: 7:00--80%; 8:00--80, 9:00--83, 10:00--87
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Wind: 7:00--13mph(Out of E), 8:00--13(E), 9:00--13(E), 10:00--9(ENE)
Blowing from left to right, and then in
Humidity: 7:00--80%; 8:00--80, 9:00--83, 10:00--87
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Game Stories
Gettysburg Times: "Steve Carlton Gets 26th Game, 300th Strikeout And Promise of $100,000 Wage," by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press, September 29, P. 10).
Pittsburgh Press Gazette: "(Roberto) Clemente 1-Under 3,000 (career hits); Carlton 3-Over 300 K's," by Charlie Feeney (September 29, P. 18, 20)
Pittsburgh Press: "Moose At His Best, Carlton's Still Better" (September 29, P. 41).
Times Headline: "3 Freed American Pilots Spend 1st Day Back In US In Military Hospitals," by Lee Gould (Associated Press, September 29, P. 1).
Press-Gazette Headline: "Three POWs (prisoners of war) Back in U.S., Reunite With Military" (Associated Press, P. 1).
Press Headline: "(Community College of Allegheny County) COLLEGE STRIKE PACT REPORTED NEAR HERE: Negotiators Still At it After 26 Hours," by Ray Steffens (September 28, P. 1).
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Carlton was involved in his third consecutive 2-1 decision. He won for the second time. He pitched a masterful game, allowing no earned runs. The Pirates, who led the National League in hitting and finished 3rd in runs scored, were throttled. In the last two games Carlton has pitched against them, he has given up one earned run and 9 hits, while striking out 23 and walking one (see Start 28 for the last game he pitched against them). Pittsburgh scored their only run in the 2nd on a two base error, a wild pitch, and a sacrifice fly. The only other inning he let them have more than one man on base was the 7th, when, with two outs, Rennie Stennett (who, in 1975 would set the MLB modern day record for hits in a 9 inning game with 7) (SABR Games Project) singled. Richie Hebner then doubled to right (their only extra base hit) but Stennett was cut down at the plate by two perfect throws, from Tommy Hutton (Wikipedia) to Denny Doyle to John Bateman. The Phillies scored both their runs in the 5th, an RBI single by Carlton tying the game, and a run scoring single by Doyle giving them the lead. In the 6th, the Pirates pinch hit for Clemente (H), as he got his 2,999th career hit in the 4th and the team wanted him to get his 3,000th hit in front of his home fans (which he did, the last regular season hit of his career). Carlton struck out at least one batter in 7 of his 9 innings.
The Pirates' 3,4,5 batters, Clemente/Robertson, Willie Stargell (H), and Manny Sanguillen were 3-11 with 1 RBI and 5 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 84-428 (.196), with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 34 RBI. Carlton's ERA shrank from 2.06 to 2.00.
Quotes form the game stories:
From the Gettysburg Times
"The list of strikeout kings reads like a who's who in pitching--Walter Johnson (Washington, American League), Bob Feller (Cleveland, American League), Rube Wadell (Philadelphia, American League), Mickey Lolich (Detroit, American League, Sam McDowell (Cleveland, American League), and Nolan Ryan (California, American League) [in addition to the National League pitchers mentioned above])."
Ralph Bernstein
"I feel good about that (the strikeout milestone). It's a great accomplishment. I should have had a few more strikeouts tonight, but I challenged too many hitters when I should have been moving the ball around."
Steve Carlton
"I don't accept that. They (Phillies) don't play like a last place team when I'm out there. I hold 'em close and they get me a couple of runs. They play great defense."
Steve Carlton, in response to a question about whether winning this many games for a poor team "made it even more satisfying."
"I threw the hell out of the ball tonight. I had one of the best fast balls I've had all season and the best curve ball."
Steve Carlton
"'I was consistently fast all game.' But he admitted he was reaching back for everything he had in the ninth."
Steve Carlton and Ralph Bernstein
"He's just as quick and he had a slider that Koufax didn't have. Catching Carlton is like taking a day off. You just put the glove down and he does the rest."
John Bateman, Phillies catcher.
"He'll be our first $100,000 ballplayer. We tell our players to have a good year and we'll pay for it. He's had the good year and we intend to pay."
Paul Owens, Phillies Manager/General Manager.
From the Pittsburgh Press:
"I threw the ball tonight as good as I'm ever going to throw it...I'm not at all disappointed. I've thrown the ball very well this year. In the last eight or nine games I've thrown better than I have in a long time."
Bob Moose
"As I started my slide I saw he was giving me a corner of the plate. but just as I was ready to touch it, he tagged me."
Rennie Stennett, on the play at the plate that kept him from scoring the tying run."
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Pirates batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Pirates
1. D. Cash R,4........(1)g(6-3).(3)1b(6)..(6)f(8)...(8)1b(9)
2. A. Oliver L,8......(1)g(4-3).(3)K......(6)g(4-3).(8)g(1-3)
3. R. Clemente(H) R,9.(1)f(9)...(4)1b(9)%
3. B. Robertson R,PH,7....................(6)K......(9)K
4. W. Stargell(H) L,3.(2)2bE4&..(4)K......(7)K......(9)K
5. M. Sanguillen R,2..(2)sf(8)..(4)K......(7)f(9)...(9)1b(8)
6. R. Stennett R,7,9..(2)f(9)...(4)f(7)...(7)1b(7)..(9)g(5-4)
7. R. Hebner L,5......(2)Kc.....(5)K......(7)2b(9)(9-4-2)#
8. J. Hernandez R,6...(3)f(8)...(5)f(7)
8. B. Mazeroski(H) R,PH...................(8)f(4)
8. F. Taveras R,6
9. B. Moose R,1.......(3)K......(5)Kc
9. R. Hernandez B,1
9. J. Pagan R,PH..........................(8)f(6)
9. D. Giusti R,1
&=Carlton threw a wild pitch to Sanguillen. Stargell advanced to third.
%=Clemente advanced to 2nd on a passed ball by catcher Bateman while Stargell was at bat.
#=Stennett was thrown out at the plate trying to score on Hebner's double, Hutton to Doyle to Bateman.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 40 starts: 337 1/3 innings, 1,012 outs, 29 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 303 K, 299g, 356f(243 outfield, 113 infield), 7 unknown; 299 Pulled, 160 Up the middle, 203 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 25 double plays, 12 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 5 thrown out on the bases**)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 86 W (8 intentional); 249 hits (186 1b, 41 2b, 5 3b, 17HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 15 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 83 runs (75 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 249-1156(.215) +86 walks (8 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.99
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game.
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 0 Walks; 6 hits (1 infield, 5 outfield), (5 1b, 1 2b); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 opposite field, 1 2b error, 1 wild pitch, 1 passed ball
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (11*1.5) + (0*2.2)=125
Pirates were 6-32
Outs: 27 (9 right handed batters, 3 left handed batters)
Outs: 11K; 5g; 10f(2 infield, 8 outfield); 7 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field; 1 thrown out on the bases
---
Pirates right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 22: 5-21
Outs: 5K, 2g, 10f (2 infield, 8 outfield); 5 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field;
On Base: 0 Walks, 5 hits (1 infield,4 outfield) (5 1b ); 2 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Pirates left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 11: 1-11
Outs: 6K, 3g. 0f; 2 Pulled 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 thrown out on the bases
Outs: 5K, 2g, 10f (2 infield, 8 outfield); 5 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field;
On Base: 0 Walks, 5 hits (1 infield,4 outfield) (5 1b ); 2 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Pirates left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 11: 1-11
Outs: 6K, 3g. 0f; 2 Pulled 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 thrown out on the bases
On Base: 1 hit (1 outfield) ( (1 2b) 1 pulled, 1 2b error, 1 passed ball
+++
Start 39
September 24 at New York Shea Stadium NY 2 Phi 1 Carlton 25-10 (2.06)
Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Tom Seaver (H) (R) (19-12) (3.06)
Seaver in action--.Seaver strikes out 19 San Diego Padres (excerpts), including the last 10 in a row--April 22, 1970
This was the second match up this season between the presumptive 1972 NL Cy Young Award winner and the 1971 Cy Young Award runner-up. The last time they met, in Philadelphia on May 21 (see Start 9 below), Seaver's win gave him a 7-2, 2.44 ledger as opposed to Carlton's loss, which was in the middle of his 5 game losing streak and left him at 5-4, 2.22. The Mets were 25-7 with a 6 game lead in the East. The Phillies, with that loss, fell under .500 for the 2nd and last time this year. The Mets fell on hard times and came into this game at 75-70, long eliminated by the Eastern Division Champion Pittsburgh Pirates. The Phillies stayed under .500. Carlton wanted this win very badly but didn't get it, betrayed by a throwing error by his catcher John Bateman and a Phillies offense that was stifled by Seaver and closer Tug McGraw. Carlton gave up 7 hits while striking out 9 without giving up a walk, while Seaver, pitching 8 1/3 innings, walked 2 and struck out 6 while giving up 5 hits. Carlton has now 292 strikeouts in 328 1/3 innings. He has received 123 runs of support in 39 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts). This was his 28th complete game.
Tom Seaver's Repertoire: (6'1", 195 lbs, 311-205, 2.86, 1 save, 1967-1986)
1. Rising (4 seam) fastball; 2. Sinking (2 seam) fastball; 3. Slider, 4. Curve, 5. Changeup
"I've got 4 pitches--fast ball, curve ball, slider and changeup--but I've got a couple of different kinds of fast balls and three different curve balls and a slider and two change-ups. So it's seven or eight pitches that I have, though there are only four different signals for them. I might show four different kinds of curve ball."
Tom Seaver: Inside Corner Talks with Tom Seaver, edited by Joel H. Cohen, via NJ, P. 379)
1. Rising (4 seam) fastball; 2. Sinking (2 seam) fastball; 3. Slider, 4. Curve, 5. Changeup
"I've got 4 pitches--fast ball, curve ball, slider and changeup--but I've got a couple of different kinds of fast balls and three different curve balls and a slider and two change-ups. So it's seven or eight pitches that I have, though there are only four different signals for them. I might show four different kinds of curve ball."
Tom Seaver: Inside Corner Talks with Tom Seaver, edited by Joel H. Cohen, via NJ, P. 379)
Arm Angle: three-quarters. Seaver had a motion that, in my opinion, is a work of art.
Phi 000 000 100--1-5-1--(55-91--55-92)--6 E -37.0 g
NY 100 000 01x--2-7-0--(75-70--76-70)--3 E -15.5 g
Time: 1:53; Attendance: 41,644; Sunday Afternoon game: 2:05pm.; Home Plate Umpire: Shag Crawford (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). For more on Crawford see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1: Part 2.
Weather conditions (partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 2:00pm--64F, 5:00--64,
Wind: 2:00--12mph(Out of S); Blowing out
Humidity:2:00--75%; 5:00--72
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Temperature: 2:00pm--64F, 5:00--64,
Wind: 2:00--12mph(Out of S); Blowing out
Humidity:2:00--75%; 5:00--72
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Game stories:
New York Times (Proprietary): "Mets Defeat Carlton Again, 2-1; As 41,644 Watch Home Finale," by Thomas Rogers (September 25, P. 52).
Gettysburg Times: "Mets Eke Out 2-1 Win Over Phillies As 41,644 Watch Duel By Carlton and Seaver," by Ken Rappoport (Associated Press, September 25, P. 7).
Reading Eagle: "Seaver Gets Help To Beat Carlton" (by Ken Rappoport (Associated Press, September 25, P. 20)
Times Headline: NEW SURVEY FINDS (President and Republican Presidential Nominee Richard) NIXON IS LEADING (Democratic Nominee Senator George) M'GOVERN 62-23%: Poll Taken in Last Month of Summer Puts President Ahead Among Democrats: MARGIN GROWING WIDER: Lead Earlier was 56-28%--2,329 Voters Queried in 16 Largest States," by Jack Rosenthal (September 25, P. 1, 43).
Gettysburg Times Headline: "(Pennsylvania Governor Milton) Shaap Will Try Again On No Fault (auto) Insurance Bill as Rider (attached to another bill)," by Bob Warner (Associated Press, September 25, P. 2)
Eagle Headline: "(President Richard) Nixon Asks World (Bank) Monetary Reform" (Associated Press, September 25, P. 1)
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On a day when the sports headlines were dominated by a different kind of duel, between Joe Namath (15-28-498 yards--6 touchdowns) and Johnny Unitas (26-45-332 yards--2 touchdowns), won by the Jets 44-34, a day where the Philadelphia Inquirer didn't even send a beat reporter to cover Carlton's start (BB, P. 200), Carlton and Tom Seaver locked up in a brilliant pitchers duel and were in dominating form. The two pitchers struck out 17 batters between them and walked 2. Carlton was shaky to begin with, just as he was in his last start. He still wasn't putting the ball where he wanted to and gave up a home run to center by Tommie Agee on his third pitch of the game. Then he gave up a double to number 2 hitter
Lute Barnes (Wikipedia) (2-3 with a game winning RBI against Carlton--his only game against him in a 27 game career). But then Carlton suddenly snapped into form, pitching like he hadn't in several games, dominating his opponents. He struck out the side, and then stifled the Mets offense until the 8th.
Then a single and a strikeout brought up Agee. This time he laid down a bunt in front of the plate that catcher John Bateman threw away. Agee was credited with a hit and the error moved runners to 2nd and 3rd. Barnes then came up and hit a fly ball to Center Fielder Bill Robinson (who provided the Phillies only run with with a home run in the 7th) and both runners attempted to advance. Ted Martinez
(Wikipedia) scored but Robinson threw a strike to Don Money (Wikipedia) to retire Agee for the third out. Home plate Umpire Shag Crawford ruled that Martinez had crossed the plate (an unearned run) "a fraction of a second" before Money retired Agee. If Agee had been retired first, the run wouldn't have counted. The Phillies had no answer to Seaver and closer Tug McGraw, who finished the game with a flourish, striking out the last two batters, one of whom was Robinson. And so Carlton finished with a losing season record against the Mets, the only team he had a losing record against. In the last 18 innings he has given 3 runs (2 earned) and split the two decisions. It was the Mets' final home game of the year and drew over 40,000, who witnessed the tense 1 hour and 53 minute struggle.
The Mets 3,4,5 hitters, Jim Fregosi , Cleon Jones, and Jim Beauchamp (Wikipedia) were 1-9 with 4 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 81-417(.194) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 33 RBI. Carlton's ERA shrank from 2.08 to 2.06.
Quotes From the Game Stories
From the Reading Eagle:
"I was hit pretty hard by the first batter in the ninth. The next two guys coming up were long ball hitters and one--Bill Robinson--had hit a home run off me earlier...
so it was time for McGraw.
Tom Seaver, appearing to agree with Manager Yogi Berra's pitching change with one out and nobody on in the 9th, depriving him of a complete game.
"I threw a nothing ball to Robinson. I got it up."
Tom Seaver, describing the pitch that led to the Phillies' only run.
You have to give credit to Ted Martinez. He hustled all the way."
Tom Seaver, describing Martinez' daring dash home on the sacrifice fly that won the game, crossing the plate an instant ahead of Tommie Agee being caught out at third for the third out trying to advance on the same play. Seaver was silent about whether Agee's attempted advance was a smart play.
Seaver's 19th win gave him a shot at a 20 win season. "I hope that I can put it together at least one more time this season."
Tom Seaver
He finished with a 21-10 record, his 2nd consecutive 20 win season. The 21 wins were 2nd in the National League.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Mets
1. T. Agee R,8......(1)HR(8).(3)f(3)..(5)f(7).....(8)1b(b2)E2%
2. L. Barnes R,4....(1)2b(7).(3)K.....(6)1b(8)...(8)sfDP(8-5)&
3. J. Fregosi R,5...(1)K.....(4)1b(9).(6)gDP(1-6-3)
3. W. Garrett L,5
4. C. Jones R,7.....(1)K.....(4)f(8)..(6)g(1-3)
5. J. Beauchamp R,3.(1)K.....(4)f(8)..(7)K
5. E. Kranepool L,3
6. D. Dyer R,2......(2)K.....(4)f(6)..(7)f(9)
7. D. Hahn R,9......(2)f(3)*.(5)f(8)..(7)K
8. T. Martinez R,6..(2)f(3)*.(5)1b(6).(8)1b(6)
9. T. Seaver(H) R,1.(3)K.....(5)f(8)..(8)K
9. T. McGraw R,1
*=Foul ball
%=Agee beat out a bunt hit and when catcher Bateman threw the ball away, Martinez advanced to 3rd and Agee to 2nd
&=On Barnes' sacrifice fly, Martinez scored before Robinson threw Agee out at third to end the inning.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 39 starts: 328 1/3 innings, 985 outs, 28 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 292 K, 294g, 346f(235 outfield, 111 infield), 7 unknown; 292 Pulled, 156 Up the middle, 199 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 25 double plays, 12 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 4 thrown out on the bases**)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
**Two of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36, 39) were caught in the outfield and turned into double plays when the runners attempted to tag up and score or tag up and go to 3rd. I did not include those in the double play count but did include them in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 86 W (8 intentional); 243 hits (181 1b, 40 2b, 5 3b, 17HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 14 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 82 runs (75 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 243-1124(.216) +86 walks (8 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.00
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and all 9 right handed batters). Note: this was an 8 inning complete game
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 0 Walks; 7 hits (3 infield, 4 outfield), (5 1b, 1 2b, 1HR); 3 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 1 opposite field, 1 error that caused two base runners to advance
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 29 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (29*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (0*2.2)=109
Mets were 7-28
Outs: 24 (9 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 9K; 2g; 11f(4 infield, 7 outfield); 2 Pulled, 7 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field; 1 double play, 1 thrown out on the bases
+++
Start 38
September 20 at St. Louis Busch Stadium II Phi 2 St.L 1 Carlton 25-9 (2.08)
Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Rick Wise (R) 15-16 (3.30) Rick Wise in action (12th inning of the Game 6 of the 1975 World Series. Wise gave up 2 hits but worked out of the inning. Carlton Fisk led off the bottom of the 12th with one of the most famous home runs in World Series history).
Carlton faced off against the man he was traded for and won his 25th game of the season (27th complete game) over hard luck Rick Wise. The loss was Wise's 16th against 15 wins, Of the 16 losses 12 were by 1 run (six 3-2, three 2-1, two 4-3, and one 1-0) (BB, P. 199). Carlton labored in the heat and humidity, but only threw 115 pitches. He struck out 2, tying his lowest output of the season (see Start 30 below). He now has 283 strikeouts in 320 1/3 innings. He has received 122 runs of support in 38 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts).
Rick Wise's Repertoire: (6'1", 180 lbs, 188-181, 3.69, 1964-1982).
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Slider; 4. Change
(Source: Wise in Splender on the Diamond, by Rich Westcott, 2000, and The Sporting News, June 26, 1976, Larry Whiteside, VIA NJ, P. 430).
Wise may be one of the best pitchers nobody ever heard of, but in his time he was well respected. In 17 seasons he won 15 or more games 6 times. On the 1975 American League Champion Boston Red Sox he was 19-12, his best year (and he had more wins and a better ERA than the more well known Luis Tiant). He was a top half of the (4 man) rotation starter for most of his career, led his team in wins 5 times, and was second 3 times. At the time he was traded for Carlton, he was coming off a 17-14 2.88 season in which he pitched a no-hitter (and hit two home runs) against the Reds. Carlton was 20-9, 3.56 in 1971.
Arm angle--three quarters
Phi 100 001 000--2-7-1--(52-90--53-90)--6 E -37.0 g
St.L 100 000 000--1-6-0--(70-74--70-75)--4 E -21.0 g
Time: 2:20; Attendance: 5,569; Wednesday night game: 8:00pm; Home Plate Umpire: Bruce Froemming (retrosheet.org) (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--83F, 9:00--81, 10:00--79
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of SSW), 9:00--5(SSE), 10:00-10(WSW)--Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--63%; 9:00--65, 10:00--66
8:00--Mostly Cloudy; 9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of SSW), 9:00--5(SSE), 10:00-10(WSW)--Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--63%; 9:00--65, 10:00--66
8:00--Mostly Cloudy; 9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Game story:
Gettysburg Times: "Steve Carlton Wins 25th Game At The Expense of Rick Wise and the St. Louis Cardinals" (Associated Press, P. 14).
Times Headline: "Chinese-Soviet Clash In UN Is Expected On Yugoslav Move To Admit Bengladesh" (Associated Press, P. 1)
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Two batters into this game, Carlton had given up 2 hits, 2 stolen bases, and a run. He would give up 4 more hits the rest of the way. The Phillies scored their runs on a double and a single in the first, and a double, single, and sacrifice fly in the sixth. After the Cardinals scored their run, he retired 13 consecutive batters. He got out of a bases loaded jam in the sixth, but otherwise kept the Cardinals quiet. With the temperature in the low 80s and humidity in 60s, it was a difficult night. This was a meaningless game played in front of 5,500 people, But it was important to Carlton because it was the game in which he reached his pre-season goal of 25 wins. His 25th win was the Phillies' 53rd. Think about that. For the season, he was 4-0 against the Cardinals, giving them 2 runs in those starts.
The Cardinals' 3,4,5 hitters Luis Melendez (Wikipedia), Joe Torre (H) and Ted Simmons (H) (Hall of Fame) were 1-11. The heart of the National League order is now 80-408 (.196) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 33 RBI. Carlton's ERA shrank from 2.11 to 2.08
Quotes from the game story:
"For a while I was thinking about 30 wins. But I'll settle for this."
Steve Carlton
Carlton labored in the "steaming heat." "Whether I'd finish became a question mark."
Steve Carlton, who lost 10 pounds during the course of the game.
"This is a big thrill. but nothing can match the 15 wins in a row I had earlier in the season."
Steve Carlton
Interesting tidbit.
Eight days before this game the Phillies brought up a 22 year old 3rd baseman to see what he could do. His name was Mike Schmidt (H), and this game was his 5th game in the "Show". He went 0-2 with a walk and a strike out, leaving him at 3-15, with 1 HR (August 16 v Montreal, a three run shot--his only RBI so far--3 walks and 6 strikeouts). In his first full season, 1973, he played in 136 games, batted .196 and struck out 136 times. He also hit 18 home runs (1/4 of all his hits) and drove in 52 runs. Coming into Spring Training of 1974, the Phillies were still trying to figure out what he could do. Over the next 16 seasons, he led the National League in home runs 8 times and in RBI 4. His career season was the Phillies' World Championship season of 1980, when he hit .286 and led the league with 48 Home Runs and 121 RBI. He batted .381 with 2 HR and 7 RBI (World Series MVP) in the Phillies 4-2 World Series victory over the Kansas City Royals. He was at the offensive heart of 5 Division Championships, 2 Pennants, and the Phillies 1st ever World Championship. He was a 3 time MVP, and a 10 time Gold Glove winner. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1995. It turns out he could do a lot.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter, PR=Pinch Runner
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Cardinals
1. L. Brock(H) L,7...(1)2b(?)$.(3)K......(6)1b(7)..(7)f(7)
2. T. Sizemore R,4...(1)1b(8)$.(3)g(6-3).(6)f(8)...(8)1b(8)
3. L. Melendez R,9...(1)f(9)...(4)f(9)...(6)g(4-6).(8)f(4)
4. J. Torre(H) R,3...(1)f(7)...(4)f(9).(6)1b(8)&.(8)gDP(6-4-3)
5. T. Simmons(H) B,2.(1)f(3)...(4)f(8)...(6)IW.....(9)g(1)
6. K. Reitz R,5......(2)f(4)...(5)f(3)...(6)f(9)...(9)f(9)
7. J. Roque R,8......(2)f(9)...(5)W#.....(7)f(8)...(9)f(3)*
8. M. Kelleher R,6...(2)K......(5)?(E4)..
8. B. Stein R,PH.........................(7)1b(9)
8. J. Cruz L,PR
8. E. Crosby L,6
9. R. Wise R,9.......(3)f(8)...(5)g(3)
9. S. Jutze R,PH.........................(7)g(5-4)
9. D. Durham R,PR
9. R. Folkers L,1
$=Brock stole 3rd with Sizemore at bat
$=Sizemore stole 2nd with Melendez at bat
#=Roque was caught stealing with Kelliher at bat, catcher Batemam to shortstop Bowa
&=Carlton threw a wild pitch while Simmons was at bat, advancing Melendez to 3rd and Torre to 2nd
*=Foul ball
For Carlton
Cumulative through 38 starts: 320 1/3 innings, 961 outs, 27 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 283 K, 292g, 335f(228 outfield, 107 infield), 7 unknown; 290 Pulled, 149 Up the middle, 195 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 24 double plays, 12 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 3 thrown out on the bases**)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 86 W (8 intentional); 236 hits (176 1b, 39 2b, 5 3b, 16HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 14 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 80 runs (74 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 236-1096(.215) +86 walks (8 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.01
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 2 Walks (1 intentional); 6 hits (6 outfield hits), (5 1b, 1 2b); 0 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 opposite field, 1 direction unknown; 1 error; 2 stolen bases
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 34 batters: Actual Count: 115 (Source: Associated Press via Gettysburg Time):
Pitch Count Estimate: (34*3.3) + (2*1.5) + (2*2.2)=120
Cardinals were 6-32
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 2K; 6g; 17f(5 infield, 12 outfield); 4 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 14 Opposite field; 1 double play, 1 caught stealing
---
Cardinals right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 30: 4-28
Outs: 1K, 6g, 16f (5 infield, 11 outfield); 4 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 13 Opposite field; 1 double play, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 2 Walks (1 intentional), 4 hits (4 outfield) (4 1b ); 0 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch, 1 stolen base
Cardinals left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 2-4
Outs: 1K, 0g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Opposite field
On Base: 2 hits (2 outfield( (1 1b, 1 2b) 1 opposite field, 1 unknown direction; 1 stolen base
Outs: 1K, 6g, 16f (5 infield, 11 outfield); 4 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 13 Opposite field; 1 double play, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 2 Walks (1 intentional), 4 hits (4 outfield) (4 1b ); 0 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch, 1 stolen base
Cardinals left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 2-4
Outs: 1K, 0g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Opposite field
On Base: 2 hits (2 outfield( (1 1b, 1 2b) 1 opposite field, 1 unknown direction; 1 stolen base
+++
Start 37
September 15 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium Phi 5 Mon 3 Carlton 24-9 (2.11) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Mike Torrez (R) 16-10 (3.20) Mike Torrez in action (1978 American League East Playoff Game--Pitching for Boston v New York)
Carlton won his 24th game with his 26th complete game, breaking the franchise record (in the modern era) for complete games by a left handed pitcher, set by Eppa Rixey (H) in 1920 (Rixey was 11-22, 3.48 on a last place 62-91 team), but he (Carlton) labored to do it. He threw an estimated 145 pitches, the 6th time he has thrown an estimated 145 or more pitches this season. He walked 3 and struck out 4. He has now struck out 281 batters in 311 1/3 innings. He gave up 10 hits, the 5th time this season he has given up more hits than innings pitched. He was charged with only 1 earned run, but 1 of the 2 unearned runs was due to his own throwing error on a pickoff play. The Expos left 10 men on base and had runners on base in 7 of the 9 innings. Still, with all of that, the game took only 1 hour and 58 minutes. Carlton has received 121 runs of support in 37 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts).
Mike Torrez' Repertoire: (6'5", 220 lbs, 185-160, 3.96, 1967-1984)
1. Slider; 2. Fastball; 3. Slow Curve (developed in 1975); 4. Change (Source: Weaver on Strategy, by Earl Weaver with Terry Pluto, 1984; TV broadcast from 1978 American League East Playoff game, via JN P. 406).
1972 was Torrez' breakout year, in which he finished 16-12 on a team that was 70-86. He won 15 or more games in 4 of the 5 years between 1972-1976, and 8 of the 10 years between 1972-1981. Playing with the Yankees, he started and won 2 complete games in the 1977 World Series, including the deciding game (in which Reggie Jackson (H) hit 3 home runs). On the flip side, he hit Dickie Thon of the Astros in the face with a pitch in April of 1984. Thon, who was touted as a possible future star, was never the same player, but did "dust himself off" and, after a year out of the game, played another nine seasons.
Arm angle: three quarters
Mon 012 000 000--3-10-0--(64-74--64-75) 5 E -25.5 g
Phi 012 001 10x--5--8-2--(49-89--50-89) 6 E -39.5 g
Time: 1:58; Attendance 20,120; Friday night game, 7:30 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Harry Wendelstedt (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F, 8:00--69, 9:00--66,
Wind: 7:00--8mph(Out of W), 8:00--5(WSW), 9:00--7(WNW), 10:00--13(SW)
7:00--Blowing from right to left; 8:00--out; 9:00--in
Humidity: 7:00--59%; 8:00--61, 9:00--63,
7:00--Partly Cloudy; 8: 00--Mostly Cloudy; 9:00--Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Wind: 7:00--8mph(Out of W), 8:00--5(WSW), 9:00--7(WNW), 10:00--13(SW)
7:00--Blowing from right to left; 8:00--out; 9:00--in
Humidity: 7:00--59%; 8:00--61, 9:00--63,
7:00--Partly Cloudy; 8: 00--Mostly Cloudy; 9:00--Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Game stories:
Reading Eagle: "Big Red Machine (Cincinnati Reds) Clanks When (Fred) Norman's on Hill", by Hal Bock (Associated Press National League compendium of games, September 16, P. 10.)
Montreal Gazette: "Carlton beats Expos--his 24th," by Ian MacDonald (September 16, P. 23)
and arrow back one page. P. 23 does not directly link to the stories on it.
Eagle Headline: "Hijacked Jetliner Refuels in Spain" (Associated Press, September 16, P. 1)
Gazette Headline: "There will be Ugandan (Immigration) Limit--(Immigration Minister Bryce) Mackasay (September 16, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
For this game (and all 10 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 3 Walks; 10 hits, (4 infield hits, 6 outfield hits), (9 1b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 3 opposite field, 1 direction unknown; 1 error (to reach base); 1 error on a pickoff throw
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
(#1: I'm Still in Love With You, by Al Green; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
(#1: I'm Still in Love With You, by Al Green; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
The Phillies held a promotion called "Steve Carlton Night" to honor his fabulous season (and also to draw a crowd to a game played between 2 of the 4 worst teams in the National league, a combined 50 games under .500 and 65 games out of first place respectively). It was a successful promotion. Over 20,000 attended as meaningless a game as can be imagined. He was given, among other presents, "a new Chrysler Imperial, a color TV, a pair of rifles, bicycles for his two boys, golf clubs, and a set of luggage." (BB, P. 196). Both Carlton and the Phillies had off nights. After Coco Laboy homered in the 2nd, 2 Phillie errors in the third (one by Carlton) led to 2 unearned run via sacrifice flies. Facing base runners in almost every inning, Carlton buckled down when the heat was on in the next 6 innings to shut the Expos out. The Phillies were able to match the Expos' output in the 2nd and 3rd on a hit batter, single and sacrifice fly, and then a single, force play, double,and another single, respectively. Carlton stranded 5 Expos runners in the next 3 innings and Greg Luzinski gave him the lead with a home run to dead center field in the 6th. They added an insurance run in the 7th on a bases loaded walk. The Expos left 3 more men on in the 7th and 8th before Carlton retired them in order in the 9th for the win.
The 3,4,5 Expos batters, Bob Bailey, Hal Breeden, and Ken Singleton were 2-11 with 2 RBI. The heart of the National League order is now 79-397 (.199) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 33 RBI. Carlton's ERA shrank from 2.14 to 2.11.
Quotes from the game stories:
"I felt a special obligation to win."
Steve Carlton (BB, unattributed quote, P. 196).
"Bull's (Greg Luzinski) home run really pumped me up."
Steve Carlton, Philadelphia Daily News via BB, P. 198.
From the Eagle:
"I was tired. I just didn't have it. My arm was dead."
Steve Carlton
"Still, the gritty lefty hung on to tie Chicago's (White Sox) Wilbur Wood as the top winner in the majors this season. 'Yeah,' grunted Carlton, 'but he pitches every two days. He's tough to keep up with.'"
Hal Bock, Associated Press baseball writer.
From the Gazette:
"Steve Carlton is the start and the end for this year's Phillies."
Ian MacDonald, Expos beat writer.
"Seven times this season the Phillies have drawn over 30,000 souls to Vet Stadium. It's more than coincidence that on each occasion Carlton was throwing. The team averages just over 19,000 per attraction, but Steve has drawn 41,000, 42,000, 43,000, and 44,000 plus crowds. When he was riding on his 15 game winning streak there was a crowd of 57,000 plus to see him beat the Mets."
Ian MacDonald
"I wasn't sharp. My fastball was sailing. I don't know why, but it's been doing that for the last four or five starts."
Steve Carlton
"That was a fastball that sailed. When I try to hit the outside corner it sails across the plate. When I try to hit the inside corner it's a ball. It's something I have to work on."
Steve Carlton, describing the pitch that Coco Laboy hit a "tremendous home run blast" on, and discussing his larger control issues during the last few starts.
"We all get a lift when Steve pitches. You know it's going to be a short game. You know you only have to score a few runs and he'll do the rest.
Greg Luzinski, Phillies Left Fielder.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Expos batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Expos
1. R. Woods R,8......(1)1b(1)..(3)1b(9)..(4)g(5-4).(6)K........(8)f(8)
2. T. Foli R,6.......(1)g(6-3).(3)?(E5)&.(5)1b(7)..(7)1b(6)....(9)g(5-3)
3. B. Bailey R,7,5...(1)g(5-3).(3)sf(8)..(5)f(8)...(7)gDP(4-3).(9)Kc
4. H. Breeden R,3....(1)f(5)*..(3)sf(8)..(5)f(L5)..(7)1b(7)....(9)g(6-3)
5. K. Singleton B,9..(2)f(4)...(3)K......(5)1b(6)..(7)W
6. C. Laboy R,5......(2)HR(?)..(4)f(7)...(5)W......(7)g(6-4)
6. M. Marshall R,1
7. J. Boccabella R,2.(2)g(6-3).(4)1b(7)..(5)g(6-3).(8)g(6-3)
8. H. Torres R,4.....(2)K......(4)f(9)...(6)f(3)*..(8)f(3)*
9. M. Torrez R,1.....(3)1b(9)@.(4)W......(6)f(2)*
9. C. Mashore R,7..................................(8)1b(4)
*=Foul ball
@=With Foli at bat, Carlton made a throwing error on a pickoff to 2nd (Torrez), allowing Torrez to advance to 3rd and Woods to 2nd
@=On the error by Money, Torrez remained at 3rd and Woods at 2nd. The error loaded the bases.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 37 starts: 311 1/3 innings, 934 outs, 26 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 281 K, 286g, 318f(216 outfield, 102 infield), 7 unknown; 286 Pulled, 144 Up the middle, 181 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 23 double plays, 11 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 3 thrown out on the bases**)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 84 W (7 intentional); 230 hits (171 1b, 38 2b, 5 3b, 16HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 13 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 79 runs (73 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 230-1064(.216) +84 walks (7 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.01
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and all 10 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 40 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (40*3.3) + (4*1.5) + (3*2.2)=145
Expos were 10-35
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 4K; 10g; 12f(6 infield, 6 outfield); 12 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field; 1 double play.
---
Mets right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 33: 8-30
Outs: 4K, 8g, 10f (10 outfield) ; 6 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 7 opposite field; 1 out on the bases
On Base: 3 Walks (1 intentional), 8 hits (1 infield, 7 outfield) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Mets left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 1g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk
Mets right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 33: 8-30
Outs: 4K, 8g, 10f (10 outfield) ; 6 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 7 opposite field; 1 out on the bases
On Base: 3 Walks (1 intentional), 8 hits (1 infield, 7 outfield) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Mets left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 1g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk
+++
Start 36
September 11 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium NY 4 Phi 2 Carlton 23-9 (2.14) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Koosman (L) 9-11 (4.23) Jerry Koosman in action (Game 2, 1969 World Series)
Carlton picked up his 25th complete game in an ugly loss to the Mets where he failed to hold the 2-0 lead the Phillies gave him in the 1st inning. They got nothing for him in the last 8 innings, despite loading the bases in the 3rd and having base runners in 5 of the last 6 innings. They left 9 on the bases. Carlton gave up 8 hits and 4 walks including consecutive walks sandwiched around a wild pitch in the 4th, when the Mets tied the game. It was the first time Carlton walked consecutive batters since May 30 (BB, P. 193) (see Start 11 below). He labored mightily, throwing 150 pitches (BB, P. 193). The loss doomed his chances for 30 wins. Carlton walked 4 and struck out 5. He has now struck out 277 in 302 1/3 innings. He has received 118 runs of support in 36 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts).
Jerry Koosman's Repertoire: (6'2", 205 lbs, 222-209, 3.36, 17 saves, 1967-1985)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Change; 4. Slider (developed in 1974)
(Jack Lang, The Sporting News, 1974 and 1976, via NJ, P. 270)
"Koosman didn't really have a good fastball from 1970-1973". (NJ, P. 270)
"Jerry had good stuff and he knew he had good stuff...They should have paid him for all the bats he broke. Jerry...could get that fastball in on right handers, and I mean he ate them up."
Ron Swoboda in (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbock, 2002) via NJ, P. 270.
Jerry Koosman's Repertoire: (6'2", 205 lbs, 222-209, 3.36, 17 saves, 1967-1985)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Change; 4. Slider (developed in 1974)
(Jack Lang, The Sporting News, 1974 and 1976, via NJ, P. 270)
"Koosman didn't really have a good fastball from 1970-1973". (NJ, P. 270)
"Jerry had good stuff and he knew he had good stuff...They should have paid him for all the bats he broke. Jerry...could get that fastball in on right handers, and I mean he ate them up."
Ron Swoboda in (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbock, 2002) via NJ, P. 270.
Arm angle: three quarters
NY 000 201 010--4-8-1--(69-64--70-64) 3 E -16.0 g
Phi 200 000 000--2-6-0--(49-86--49-87) 6 E -38.0 g
Time: 2:12; Attendance: 10,317; Monday night game: 7:35pm. Home Plate Umpire: John Kibler (retrosheet.org) (0 ejections in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F, 8:00--68, 9:00--68, 10:00 66
Wind: 7:00--10mph(Out of SW), 8:00--9(SW), 9:00--13(SW), 10:00--13(SW)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--53%; 8:00--56, 9:00--59, 10:00--63
7:00-9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, September 11 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
New York Times (Proprietary): METS BEAT PHILS AND CARLTON 4-2: Dyer Slugs a Homer, Triple, Single to Lead Attack, by Joseph Durso (September 12, P. 37, 40).
Reading Eagle: "Duffy Dyer Spoils It For Carlton," by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press, September 12, P. 26).
Times Headline: "HOUSE(of Representatives) UNIT (Appropriations Committee) VOTES A $4.3 BILLION CUT IN DEFENSE FUNDS: But $74.6 Billion Measure Is Largest Recommended Since World War II: END-THE-WAR BID LOST: Outlays Provided For Most Key Weapons Programs (Nixon) Administration Sought," by John W. Feeney (September 12, 1972, P. 1, 14).
Eagle Headline: "South Vietnamese Penetrate (Quang Tri City) Citadel" (United Press International, September 12, P. 1).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Cumulative through 36 starts: 302 1/3 innings, 907 outs, 25 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 277 K, 276g, 306f(210 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unknown; 274 Pulled, 139 Up the middle, 176 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 22 double plays, 11 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 3 thrown out on the bases**
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 81 W (7 intentional); 220 hits (162 1b, 38 2b, 5 3b, 15HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 76 runs (72 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 220-1029(.214) +81 walks (7 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.00
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 4 Walks (1 intentional); 8 hits, (1 infield hit, 7 outfield hits), (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 opposite field; 1 wild pitch.
---
Mets right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 33: 8-30
Outs: 4K, 8g, 10f (10 outfield) ; 6 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 7 opposite field; 1 out on the bases
On Base: 3 Walks (1 intentional), 8 hits (1 infield, 7 outfield) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Mets left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 1g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk
+++
Start 35
September 7 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium Phi 2 St.L 1 Carlton 23-8 (2.09) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Al Santorini (Wikipedia) 6-10 (4.68)
One might say this was the closest to a "gimme" Carlton had all season, until one realizes how hard he had to fight for this win, his 23rd, and his 24th complete game. The Cardinals, out of the running, played a team that was as much AAA as Major League. Lou Brock (H), Joe Torre (H), and Ted Sizemore (H--elect) (Wikipedia) did not start. Matty Alou had been traded (a waiver deal) to the Oakland A's just before the September post-season eligibility deadline. So the Cardinals didn't have much "pop" in their lineup. Their starting pitcher was Al Santorini, a journeyman who pitched 6 seasons for 3 teams and whose best record was 8-14 (3.95) for the 1969 Padres, a team that lost 110 games. That year he pitched 184 2/3 innings, by far his most. In this, his final full season, he was 8-11 (4.11) and pitched 133 2/3 innings. But he gave the Cardinals 6 solid innings. It was a tight game all the way, but the young Cardinal batters were no match in the clutch for Carlton, who walked 2 and struck out 9. His 7th strikeout, Dwain Anderson in the 7th inning, gave him 269, breaking Jim Bunning's (H) franchise record, set in 1965 (BB, P. 192). Carlton has now struck out 272 in 293 1/3 innings. He has received 116 runs of support in 35 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts). This was Carlton's 100th career victory (BB, P. 192). His career record is now 100-70.
Al Santorini (6'0", 190 lbs, 17-38, 4.29, 3 saves, 1968-1973).
I could find no information about Santorini's repertoire or arm angle.
St.L 000 000 100--1-9-1--(63-68--63-69)--4 E -21.0 g
Phi 000 011 00x--2-6-0--(48-83--49-83)--6 E -35.0 g
Time: 1:49; Attendance: 12,151; Thursday night game 7:30 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Shag Crawford (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). For more on Crawford see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1: Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--76F, 8:00--72, 9:00--70
Wind: 7:00--12mph(Out of S), 8:00--8(SSE), 9:00--5(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--50%; 8:00--57, 9:00--59
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, September 7 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Gettysburg Times: "Steve Carlton wins 100th Major League Game and 23rd For Phillies, Meantime His Catcher Has Complaint On Umpire," by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 8, P. 11).
Reading Eagle: "Ump Calls Bateman A Begger," by Ron Rapoport (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 8, P. 22).
Eagle feature story: SportopicS, by John W. Smith. Discusses Rookie Dave Downs' (Wikipedia) upcoming 2nd Major League start after winning his first game with a shutout. Later in the story, the possibility of Carlton winning 30 games is discussed. It is interesting in that BB suggests that Carlton was thinking very much about the possibility of winning 30, while this article suggests that 30 was more Manager Paul Owens' (Wikipedia) idea than Carlton's. (September 8, P. 23)
Times Headline: "Conewago Negotiations Still Stalled After Five Hour Parlay; Parents Picket Teacher Lines" (regarding a strike by Conewago Valley Education Association teachers). (no byline, September 8, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: (Arab) Guerilla Bases Attacked (by Israel) (Associated Press, September 8, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Thanks to back to back 2 out triples in the 5th inning by Larry Bowa and Tommy Hutton (Wikipedia), followed by a solo home run in the 6th by Greg Luzinski, Carlton, who scattered 9 hits and struck out 9, was able to win his 23rd game of the season. It wasn't his best performance of the season, and the opposition was a Cardinals "second team", but he locked up in quite a pitcher's duel with Cardinal journeyman Al Santorini. The Cardinals had base runners in the seven of their nine at bats, but with the exception of the 7th, when 2 two out singles scored their only run, Carlton was able to keep them off the scoreboard. He claimed the all time Phillies strikeout record and his 100th Major League win. The only other item of interest in this dreary, meaningless (in the standings) game between two teams who were a composite 40 games under .500 (see game stories above and quotes below) was the dust up between Phillies catcher John Bateman and Home Plate Umpire Shag Crawford.
The Cardinals' 3,4,5 hitters, Luis Melendez (Wikipedia), Skip Jutze (who was playing in his 7th Major League game), and Ted Simmons (H--elect) (Wikipedia) were 4-12 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 75-375 (.200) with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.12 to 2.09
Quotes from the game stories.
From the Gettysburg Times
"When it (the Carlton for Rick Wise trade) was made we knew that Carlton was a good pitcher and we knew that Wise was a good pitcher...We knew that Steve was a real fine pitcher. He won 20 games last year and he was just coming into his own, I thought. He has fine rhythm on the mound. He has a fine curveball and fastball, and he won a few games this year with his hitting, which helps a pitcher tremendously.
Red Schoendienst (H) (1--SABR Biography) (2--SABR oral interview), Cardinals Manager, on "the trade" and Carlton.
From the game story by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press) relating to Phillies catcher John Bateman on a ball and strike call he thought Plate Umpire Shag Crawford got wrong.
"I told him 'Let's go, let's go'. He walked in front of the plate and said to me: 'Don't tell me what to do.' I said 'I'm not telling you what to do.' He then said 'Bleep you.'
Bateman said he would write a letter to National League President Chub Feeney (Wikipedia) about the incident. 'I've paid fines for saying less than that,' said Bateman.
In the umpire's dressing room, Crawford was "bleeping" mad. 'Bleep him," said Crawford. That's what I told him and I'm saying it again. That bleeping butcher. He's a beggar--begging for strikes.'"
From the Reading Eagle
"We had no idea how to pitch them. We found out we pitched a lot of them wrong."
Steve Carlton, on pitching to the Cardinals' "second" team.
From the feature story:
"Meanwhile, it seemed that Owens is more eager for Carlton to win 30 than Carlton is.
Paul was detailing his plans to let Steve win as many games as possible -- pitch him every fourth day and then let him work with two days' rest in the season's final, which would give him seven more starts: possibly use him in relief in a tie game in the late innings: take him out early if the Phils get a really big lead, etc.
Carlton winced at the idea of any relief work. "I don't want to get greedy."
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
September 3 at Atlanta Stadium (the stadium wasn't renamed Atlanta Fulton-County Stadium until 1975--Wikipedia) Phi 8 Atl 0 Carlton 22-8 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jim Hardin (R) 3-2 (4.06)
Carlton cruised to his 22nd win, his 23rd complete game, and 8th shutout, in an 8-0 win over Atlanta. The Phillies, as they have in several of his starts, scored all their runs with most of their offensive output, in one inning. Only this one was a really big inning, 8 runs, 8 hits, 12 batters in the 3rd inning. They didn't get another base runner until the 9th. He walked 3 and struck out 4. He has now struck out 263 in 284 1/3 innings. He has received 114 runs of support in 34 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts). Henry Aaron (H) got a base hit in the first inning, giving him the all time MLB lead in career total bases with 6,135. He passed Stan Musial (H), who still, in 2020, is in 2nd place with 6,134. Willie Mays (H) is in 3rd place with 6,066. Aaron finished his 23 year career with 6,856 total bases. It is one of his less well known career records, but one of the most impressive. It averages to 298 total bases a year for 23 years. Aaron is one of only 2 non-Lively Ball (1920s and 1930s) or Steroid Era players to accumulate 400 total bases in a single season (1958, at age 25). (Musial is the other. He did it in 1948). The magic 400 mark has been achieved 29 times in MLB history.
Jim Hardin's Repertoire (6' 0", 175 lbs, 43-32, 3.18, 4 saves, 1967-1972)
Partial: 1. Fastball; 2. Changeup
(Jim Palmer, Palmer and Weaver: Together We were eleven foot nine, by Jim Palmer and Jim Dale, 1996, P. 24, via Hardin SABR biography).
Hardin's career was cut short by arm injuries. His best year was 1968 when he went 18-13, 2.51 ERA, with 16 complete games and 242 innings pitched. His Baltimore Orioles team won over 90 games but came in a distant second to the Detroit Tigers. He was a member of all three Orioles Pennant winning teams from 1969-71 but never pitched in the post season. He was killed at age 47 in a plane crash in 1991.
Arm angle: Unknown
Phi 008 000 000--8-12-0--(46-81--47-81)--6 E -34.0
Atl 000 000 000--0--5-0--(59-71--59-72)--4 W -23.0
Time: 2:00; Attendance: 5,119; Sunday day game: 2:15pm; Home Plate Umpire: Doug Harvey (H) (0 ejections in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--85F; 3:00--85; 4:00--85
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (from the NW); 3:00--13 (NW); 4:00--5 (SSW); ; Blowing in then out
Humidity: 2:00--46%; 3:00--48%; 4:00--46%
Mostly cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play, September 3 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Gettysburg Times: "Hank Aaron Establishes All-Time Mark For Total Bases At Philadelphia [sic] While Steve Carlton Also Sets Own Records (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 4, P. 6).
Times Headline: Predict Americans On Charter Flights May Be Stranded In Europe," by Lewis Gulick (Associated Press, P. 3)
Start 33
August 30 at Houston Astrodome: Hou 5 Phi 3 Carlton 21-8 (2.19) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Reuss (L) 9-10 (4.11) Jerry Reuss in action (final 3 outs of his no-hitter v Giants June 27, 1980) (Jerry Reuss Youtube).
Carlton began well but weakened in his last two innings, giving up 3 of his 4 walks, all 3 of his hits, and 3 runs. For the second time in the last four starts, he walked more than he struck out. This was also the second time all season that happened. He was removed for a pinch hitter in the 7th inning. The Phillies turned 12 hits into 2 earned runs, leaving 9 on the bases. The Astros had 5 hits for the game and 5 walks, which they parlayed into 5 runs (3 of which were earned). The two runs that were the actual margin of victory came when Cesar Cedeno (having a career year at age 22: 1st in NL in doubles, tied for 3rd in triples, 3rd in stolen bases, 4th in batting average, 4th in slugging %, and a Gold Glove in center field) attempted to steal 2nd base in the 7th inning. The Phillies, due to Larry Bowa having to leave the game earlier, had a 2nd baseman playing shortstop. John Bateman's throw was perfect but nobody covered the base and two runs scored (BB, P. 189). Carlton now has 259 strikeouts in 275 1/3 innings. He has received 106 runs of support in 33 starts (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts).
Jerry Reuss' Repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 220-191, 11 saves, 1969-1990).
1. "Key Pitch" until the mid 1980s: Fastball
"I'll bet he didn't throw more than two or three curves all day."
Dodger catcher Steve Yeager after Reuss beat the Yankees 2-1 with a complete game 5 hitter (video) to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead in the 1981 World Series (The Sporting News, November 7, 1981 via NJ, P. 356).
"Reuss' fastball was "his bread and butter pitch"..."breaking this far"
Ron Perranoski, Dodgers pitching coach in 1982, ("holding his hands one foot apart") (Gordon Verrell, The Sporting News, September 27, 1982 via NJ, P. 356)
After 3 elbow surgeries in the 1980s
1. Cut or sinking fastball; 2. Slow curve; 3. Changeup.
Arm angle: overhand
Phi 000 010 020--3-12-1--(44-77--44-78) 6 E -32.5 g
Hou 000 021 20x--5--5-2--(70-54--71-54) 2 W -7.5 g
Weather Conditions: Indoors
Standings at the Close of Play, August 30 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
I could find no game stories that gave any more information than what can be gathered from the play by play. For the second consecutive start, Carlton did not pitch a complete game. He pitched well early, giving up no hits through the first 4 innings. The Phillies gave him a lead in the 4th when Terry Harmon (Wikipedia) hit an inside the park home run, the first home run of his career (he finished with 4 home runs in a ten year career) but Carlton couldn't hold it, giving the lead up in the bottom half. The Astros scored 2 runs on a walk, single, double, and a force play. In the 6th they touched him for one more run on a walk, stolen base, and single. As the Phillies had done nothing more offensively since the Harmon home run, Carlton was lifted for a pinch hitter. His outing was hampered by the two walks, which both scored. That and a nightmare 7th inning (see above) gave the Astros the victory. It allowed them to stay in touch with the rampaging Cincinnati Reds, who were 78-46 (70-33 since a poor start). But time was running out.
The Astros' 3-4-5 hitters, Jim Wynn (AKA the "Toy Cannon"), Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) were 2-10 with 1 RBI and 2 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 69-353 (.195) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA rose from 2.12 to 2.19.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 33 starts: 275 1/3 innings, 826 outs, 22 complete games, 7 shutouts.
Outs: 259 K, 250g, 278f (186 outfield 92 infield); 5 unknown, 248 Pulled, 126 Up the middle, 159 Opposite Field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 72 W (6 intentional); 198 hits (145 1b, 35 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 71 runs (67 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 198-933(.212) +72 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game:
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 4 Walks, 3 hits, (3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b); 2 pulled, 1 unknown direction; 1 stolen base
---
Astros right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 23: 3-20
Outs: 3K, 6g, 8f (2 infield, 6 outfield) ; 5 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 5 opposite field
On Base: 4 Walks, 3 hits (3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b); 2 Pulled, 1 unknown direction, 1 stolen base
Astros left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 2: 0-1
Outs: 0K, 0g. 1f(1 outfield); 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
On Base: none
+++
Start 32
August 26 at Cincinnati Riverfront Stadium Phi 4 Cin 3 Carlton 21-7 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jim McGlothlin 7-6 (3.65) McGlothlin in action (Game 5, 1972 World Series)
Carlton, pitching on more than 3 days rest for the 7th time this season, had a poor game. He gave up 12 hits, the most he has all season, walked 1 and struck out 4. He was removed in the 9th inning when the Reds' previous 8 batters (8th and 9th) touched him up for 5 hits, including 2 doubles and a home run. In addition he threw his 5th wild pitch of the season. For once someone bailed him out. Guerrant McCurdy (also known as "Mac") Scarce came in and struck out Bobby Tolan (Wikipedia) and Joe Morgan (H) with the tying and winning runs on 2nd and 3rd to preserve Carlton's 21st win. He has now struck out 256 in 269 1/3 innings. He has received 105 runs of support in 32 starts (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts.)
Jim McGlothlin's Repertoire (6'1", 185 lbs, 67-77, 3.61, 3 saves, 1965-1973)
1. Fastball; 2. Slow Curve, 3. Big Curve (The Sporting News, Earl Lawson, October 2, 1971; Putting It All Together, by Brooks Robinson with Fred Bauer, 1971), via NJ, P. 302.
"McGlothlin threw two fastballs, a straight fastball and a 'tailing' fastball. His changeup had a screwball action." (NJ, P. 302)
McGlothlin pitched in two World Series for the Reds. He started the 2nd game of the 1970 World Series (Canadian Broadcasting Company video), a no decision in a 6-5 loss to the Baltimore Orioles. In the 5th game of the 1972 World Series, he had another no decision in a 5-4 Reds win over the Oakland A's. His best seasons were 1967 (12-8, 2.96 ERA, 6 shutouts for the California Angels--he pitched 2 scoreless innings in the 1967 All-Star Game), and 1970 (14-10, 3.59). McGlothlin passed away from a rare form of leukemia in 1975, at age 32.
Arm angle: three quarters
Phi 001 002 001--4--8-0--(43-75--44-75) 6 E -30.0 g
Cin 000 000 021--3-12-1--(75-44--75-45) 1 W +8.0 g
Time: 2:28; Attendance: 34,028; Saturday night game: 8:00 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet.org)
Weather conditions (Partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--79F, 11:00--71
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of W), 11:00--6(W)
Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--77%; 11:00--75
8:00--Partly Cloudy; 11:00 Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 26 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
I could find no game stories that gave any more information than what can be gathered from the play by play. The win broke a 5 game Phillies losing streak, and was followed by another 4 game losing streak. This was the first time in the last 10 starts that Carlton did not pitch a complete game. He also singled in a run. A game that featured 20 hits, 6 walks and 8 strikeouts, was played in 2 hours 28 minutes.
The Reds 3-4-5 hitters (Tolan, Johnny Bench [H], and Tony Perez [H]) were 3-12 with a home run (Perez), 2 RBI, and 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 67-343 (.195) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 30 RBI. Carlton's ERA rose from 2.10 to 2.12.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7.......(1)g(6-3).(3)f(9)...(5)1b(9).(7)f(4)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4..(1)3b(?)..(4)1b(3)$.(5)f(L4).(8)g(1-3)
3. B. Tolan L,8......(1)K......(4)g(1-3).(6)1b(9)$.(8)2b(7)&
4. J. Bench(H) R,9...(1)K......(4)f(5)...(6)K.....(8)g(6-3)!
5. T. Perez(H) R,3...(2)?(3)...(4)W......(6)f(8)..(8)HR(8)
6. D. Menke R,5......(2)f(7)...(4)f(5)...(6)f(4)..(8)g(6-3)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(2)1b(8)#.(5)K......(7)f(9)..(9)1b(8)
8. B. Plummer R,2....(3)f(9)...(5)f(7)...(7)1b(8).(9)2b(7)
9. J. McGlothlin R,1.(3)f(7)...(5)1b(8)
9. H. McRae R,PH.........................(7)f(L7)
9. C. Carroll R,1
9. J. Javier R,PH.................................(9)1b(8)
#=Concepcion caught stealing, Bateman (2) to Doyle (4)
$=Morgan stole 2nd with Tolan batting
$=Tolan stole 2nd with Bench batting
&=Tolan went to 3rd on a wild pitch with Bench batting
!=Bench's ground out scored Tolan
Note: Source for direction of Perez' HR is BB, P. 188.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 32 starts: 269 1/3 innings, 808 outs, 22 complete games, 7 shutouts.
Outs: 256 K, 244g, 269f (179 outfield, 90 infield), 5 unknown; 243 Pulled, 121 Up the middle, 154 Opposite field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 68 walks (6 intentional); 195 hits (143 1b, 34 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 68 runs (64 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 195-912(.214) +68 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 1 Walk, 12 hits, (1 infield, 11 outfield) (8 1b, 2 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 3 pulled, 6 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 unknown direction; 2 stolen bases
---
Reds right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 28: 8-27
Outs: 3K, 3g, 12f (4 infield, 8 outfield), 1 unknown; 9 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 6 opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 1 Walk, 8 hits (8 outfield) (6 1b, 1 2b, 1HR); 1 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
Reds left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 8: 4-8; 2 stolen bases
Outs: 1K, 2g. 1f(1 infield); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks, 4 hits (1 infield, 3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b) 2 Pulled, 0 Up the Middle; 1 Opposite field, 1 direction unknown
+++
Start 31
August 21 Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Atl 2 Phi 1 (11 innings); Carlton 20-7 (2.10) v Phil Niekro (H)(R) 12-10 (3.09) Niekro in action (Hall of Fame--includes final pitch of his 300th win, when he pitched for the Yankees)
Another large crowd (over 42,000 or 52,000 depending on the source) came out to see Carlton tie Jack Sanford's 16 consecutive wins in a season for the San Francisco Giants in 1962--and also Walter Johnson's [H] & Smokey Joe Wood's (Senators and Red Sox respectively) American League record (both 1912--see Start 29 below for more on that), that still stands, on his way to passing Rube Marquard's Major League record of 19, also in 1912, for the New York Giants (also still standing). Instead they saw one of the best pitcher's duels in a long time, an 11 inning double complete game that Phil Niekro (H) and Atlanta won 2-1. It was a tight, tense game. Carlton freely admitted afterword that he was out pitched. Niekro rode his knuckleball (which he used 75-80% of the time [BB, P. 177]) all the way to the Hall of Fame in an endless 24 year career. He won over three hundred games and he and his brother Joe Niekro set the all time record for wins by two brothers (539). On this night, two distinctly different pitching styles met. Carlton went through Atlanta's lineup two batters short of 5 times. Niekro went through the Phillies' more than 5 times. Carlton walked 3 and struck out 10. He has now struck out 252 in 261 1/3 innings. He has received 101 runs of support in 31 starts, (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts).
Phil Niekro's (H) Repertoire: (6'1", 180 lbs, 318-274, 3.59, 16 saves, 1964-1987)
1. Knuckleball; 2. Fastball; 3. Slider (The Sporting News, by Wayne Minshew, September 9, 1972 via ND, P. 325).
"Added pitch almost as baffling as his knuckler last season...It's a floater without a name....Pitch developed in winter instructional league where Niekro went to learn the slip pitch (see Ron Reed's repertoire--Start 16 below) after first losing season in majors (The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1972 edition, edited by Zander Hollander via NJ, P. 325.)
Rob Neyer (NJ, P. 42) rated Niekro's knuckleball as the second best of all time, behind Hoyt Wilhelm (H). In the years when Niekro pitched full seasons, he was 45 games over .500 while the teams he played for were 83 games under .500. He led the league in starts 4 times, complete games 4 times, innings pitched 4 times (all over 300 innings), batters faced 3 times, home runs given up 4 times, strikeouts once, wild pitches 3 times, wins twice, losses 4 times, and ERA once. He pitched in 864 games, 3rd on the all time list among pitchers generally recognized as starters, behind only Jim Kaat (898) and Cy Young (906).
Arm angle: three quarters
Atl 001 000 000 01--2-7-1--(52-66--53-66) 4 W -21.0 g
Phi 000 000 010 00--1-9-1--(43-71--43-72) 6 E -29.5 g
Time: 2:24; Attendance: 41,212 (Retrosheet); 52,162 (Associated Press); Monday night game: 7:35 pm. Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet.org)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--80F, 8:00--76, 9:00--72, 10:00--70
Wind: 7:00--13mph(Out of SSW), 8:00--8(S), 9:00--9(S); 10:00--12(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--43%; 8:00--50, 9:00--55; 10:00--59
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 21 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Reading Eagle: "Curve Ball, Slider End Steve's Streak," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press compendium of National League Games, August 22, P. 48).
How the other half lives:
"No Runs," by Duke DeLuca (Off the Cuff Sports Column, August 22, P. 50).
Ken Reynolds (Wikipedia)(0-11, 4.15 ERA--would finish 2-15--4.26), but had the second most starts for the Phillies--23) represents what life was like for most Phillies pitchers. This column discusses Reynolds' season to date. Reynolds played on one winning team (82-80 1975 Cardinals) in his 6 year career. The teams he played for were 355-448. He was 7-29, 4.46 ERA.
Eagle Headline: "Floor Fight Seen" (at Republican National Convention) (Associated Press, August 22, P. 1, 2)
What else is there to say than the best pitcher in the world was beaten by a guy who literally couldn't break a pane of glass with his "out" pitch. Outside of Hoyt Wilhelm, Phil Niekro is generally accepted as the greatest knuckleball pitcher of all time. Tonight, he matched Carlton, inning for inning, pitch for pitch, for 11 innings. Atlanta scored in the third on a two out RBI single by Henry Aaron (H). The Phillies tied the game in the 8th on a RBI single by Greg Luzinski. The Phillies, who left men on base in 8 of the 11 innings and left 7 runners in scoring position, had their best chance to win the game after Luzinski's RBI, but left the bases loaded and were unable to score. In the 11th, Carlton threw what he said was a "curve ball that got me in trouble." Dusty Baker (Wikipedia) smashed the mistake for a double to center field. With two outs Mike Lum hit a broken bat single to center to win the game for Niekro, who left the tying run on second in the bottom of the 11th, after a dropped 3rd strike passed ball and sacrifice had put that run there.
And just like that, the winning streak was over.
Here is a quote from BB that very succinctly sums up the winning streak.
"In winning those 15 straight games he (Carlton) had pitched 135 innings and 14 of the 15 wins were complete games. Five were shutouts. Lefty had given up only 84 hits, 19 runs (17 earned) and three home runs. He struck out 119 and walked 33. His ERA was a sparkling 1.13. He hit one batter, and he did that on purpose (see start 17 below)." (P. 186).
In addition he had a 57 1/3 scoreless earned run streak in which the only run he gave up was due to a passed ball.
When the streak began on June 3 with a no decision that the Phillies lost, their record was 16-28, having lost 18 of their last 19 games. When it ended, their record was 43-72. He won 15 of the 27 games they won in that time. He also had 3 other no decisions. Of his 4 no decisions (his only no decisions all season), the Phillies won 2 and lost 2. So when he didn't pitch during the streak, the Phillies were 10-42 (.192). When he pitched the Phillies were 17-2 (.895).
The 3-4-5 Atlanta hitters, Aaron (H), Baker (presently in his 23rd season as a Manager after an 18 year career as a player), and Earl Williams (the 1971 National League Rookie of the Year) were 3-14 with 1 RBI and 5 strikeouts, including Aaron three times. The heart of the National League order is now 64-331 (.193) with with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 28 RBI. Carlton's ERA fell from 2.12 to 2.10.
Newspaper story quotes
From the Eagle and BB
"It was the curve ball that got me in trouble..."
Steve Carlton, talking about the pitch that Dusty Baker hit for a double in the eleventh inning.
"...a helluva pitch. He just reached out, hit it, and broke his bat. It was a slider low and away."
Steve Carlton, on the pitch that Mike Lum hit to drive in the winning run.
"I'd like to break 200 bats like that."
Mike Lum
"At the time I wasn't. But after thinking about it I kind of feel sorry for him."
Mike Lum,when asked if he felt bad about breaking Carlton's 15 game winning streak.
"Sometimes you just get bested..."You ought to talk to Phil Niekro. He's the guy who did a helluva job. A super job."
Steve Carlton
"I thought it was the best knuckleball I've had all season. I must have thrown it 95% of the time. The last two or three innings I had a better knuckler than I've had the whole year."
Phil Niekro, Philadelphia Inquirer, quoted in BB, P. 185.
"I really hadn't thought that much about the winning streak. I wish it had continued. It's a shame. I really wish I could have won it for the fans, the record, and the streak."
Steve Carlton
"There were 52,162 fans on hand and they cheered as if their Phillies were in the seventh game of the World Series, rather than the team with the worst record in the majors."
Bruce Lowitt. Associated Press sports writer.
"I guess I'll just have to start another streak, right? It was a good one."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Atlanta
1. R. Garr L,9,7...(1)1b(8)..(3)Kc...(5)f(5)*...(7)g(6-3).(10)gDP(1-6-3)
2. F. Millan R,4...(1)f(7)...(3)2b(8)..(5)2b(7)..(8)f(3)*..(11)f(3)
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3.(1)K......(3)1b(8)..(5)K......(8)g(6-3).(11)K
4. D. Baker R,8....(1)Kc.....(3)2b(7)..(5)g(5-3).(8)f(5)*..(11)2b(8)
5. E. Williams R,2.(2)g(5-3).(3)K......(6)f(7)...(9)f(L6)..(11)IW
6. R. Carty R,7....(2)W......(4)g(4-3).(6)f(9)...
6. M. Lum L,9....................................(9)Kc.....(11)1b(8)
7. D. Evans L,5....(2)Kc.....(4)W$.....(6)g(5-3).(9)f(8)...(11)g(3)
8. M. Perez R,6....(2)g(3)...(4)f(4)...(7)f(3)...(10)E(4)
8. S. Jackson L,PR...............................(10)PR
8. G. Garrido R,6
9. P. Niekro R,1...(3)K......(4)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3).(10)K(sb)
$=Evans stole second with Perez batting
*=Foul ball
For Carlton
Cumulative through 31 starts: 261 1/3 innings, 784 outs, 22 complete games, 1st loss after 15 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 252K, 239g, 256f(171 outfield, 85 infield), 4 unknown; 233 Pulled, 118 Up the middle, 148 Opposite field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 9 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 67 walks (6 intentional); 183 hits (135 1b, 32 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 65 runs (61 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 183-877 (.209) +67 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 3 Walks (1 intentional), 7 hits, (7 outfield) (3 1b, 4 2b); 2 pulled, 5 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 31: 5-29
Outs: 7K, 7g, 9f (6 infield, 3 outfield); 8 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 8 opposite field
On Base: 2 Walks (1 intentional), 5 hits (5 outfield) (1 1b, 4 2b); 2 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 error
Atlanta left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 12: 2-11; 1 error, 1 double play
Outs: 3K, 4g. 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 2 hits (2 outfield) (2 1b) 0 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle; 0 Opposite field
+++
Start 30-"Hey Super Steve, Take 20 Bows" (Game story headline, Philadelphia Daily News, August 18, via BB, P. 176.)
August 17 Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 9 Cin 4; Carlton 20-6 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ross Grimsley (L) (Wikipedia) 10-6 (2.59) Grimsley in action (Game 2, 1972 World Series)
A huge crowd of over 42,000 or 53,500 (depending on the source) came out on a Thursday night to see Carlton's 20th win, 15th consecutive win, and 21st complete game. The Phillies provided him more than ample run support after he blew an early lead, backing him with 16 hits (5 extra base hits--including 2 home runs), as they routed the eventual National League Champion Reds. The Reds have hit him as well as anyone this season, with 7 earned runs in 2 match ups. He walked 4 and struck out 2, as well as giving up 7 hits, including 3 extra base hits. But the 9 runs (tied for 2nd highest output of any of his starts so far), were more than enough. He crossed the 250 inning mark in this, his 30th start. It is interesting to compare this to a modern starting rotation pitcher's workload, which is usually 30-34 starts in an entire season. The last MLB pitcher to throw 250 innings was Justin Verlander (Wikipedia) of the Tigers in 2011 (251 in 34 starts). The last National League pitcher to do it was Roy Halliday (Wikipedia) of the Phillies in 2010 (250.2 in 33 starts). In 250 1/3 innings, Carlton has struck out 242. He has received 100 runs of support in 30 starts (including 39 in 5 of those starts).
Ross Grimsely's Repertoire: (6'3", 195 lbs, 124-99, 3.81, 3 saves, 1971-1982)
1. Changeup; 2. Curve; 3. Slow Curve; 4. Slider; 5. Screwball; 6. Fastball (Sporting News, 1978, Ian McDonald; 1979 Baseball Factbook, article on Grimsley by K.D. Thornton, both via NJ, P. 224)
"Grimsley was a master at varying the speeds on all his pitches." (NJ P. 224).
In the seasons that Grimsely had 15 or more decisions, he had a losing record only once. He had a terrific year in 1972, 14-8, 3.05 ERA after a May call up. In the crucial 4th game of the 1972 National League Championship Series, with the Reds down 2-1 (in a 5 game series) he pitched a 2 hit complete game win to keep the Reds alive. In the World Series, he pitched in 4 games (1 as a starter), going 2-1 with a 2.57 ERA. He was used as a setup man in Game 5 (another elimination game) that the Reds won 5-4. In Game 6 (another elimination game) he stopped an Oakland rally when the game was still close, before the Reds blew it open. In the 7th game, he pitched the 7th inning after the A's had taken a 3-1 lead in the 6th. He kept the score right where it was, as the Reds lost the game 3-2 and series 4-3. In the video above, Grimsley is early in his career and throws more fastballs than his repertoire would indicate.
Arm angle: three quarters.
Cin 003 000 010--4--7-1--(68-42--68-43) 1 W +5.5 g
Phi 020 032 20x--9-16-1--(41-69--42-69) 6 E -27.0 g
Time: 2:04; Attendance: 42,635 (Retrosheet.org and the New York Times) 53,376 (Associated Press); Thursday night game: 7:35 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donnatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F, 8:00--70, 9:00--69
Wind: 7:00--6mph(Out of SSE), 8:00--6(SSE), 9:00--8(S); Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--71%; 8:00--71%, 9:00--70%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 17 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Reading Eagle: "20th Win Goes to Mrs. Steve Carlton: Phils Rip Reds For 16 Hits," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press Compendium of National League games) (August 18, P. 18 , P. 22).
Beaver County Times: "They Cheered--In Philadephia: 53,377 Call Carlton Back For a Bow," (United Press International Compendium of National League games) (Augusts 18, P. B1).
Eagle Headline: "(Top State Officials) Pay Hike Okayed: Phantom Solon (legislator) Helps" (Associated Press, August 18, P. 1)
Times Headline: "(State) Assembly Okays Hike, Rips Media" (United Press International, August 18, P. 1). Note: there is no direct link to headline. Simply magnify the page to read the story.
The Phillies put on their 1927 Yankees caps and made absolutely sure Carlton would win his 20th game of the season (15th in a row--just 4 behind the all time season record of 19 set by Rube Marquard of the New York Giants in 1912) with his 21st complete game. They supplied 16 hits and scored multiple runs in four different innings. They picked him up after he lost a two run lead. With the exception of 3rd Baseman Don Money (Wikipedia) and Carlton, every starter contributed a multi-hit game. They socked 2 doubles, a triple, and 2 home runs.
A crowd of over 42,000 or 53,000 (depending on the source) showed up on a Thursday night to cheer their hero on. He was not at his best but soldiered on for the complete game. He went through the Reds lineup 4 times, something he has now done in 3 other starts as well. Overall, including those 4 starts, he has gone through an opposing lineup at least 3 times in 28 of his 30 starts. One of the statistical markers used in the modern game is batting average against the 3rd time through the lineup. Because of that, because pitchers are brought up in an environment of "hard as you can as long as you can", because of specialty relievers brought in beginning sometimes as early as the 6th inning, and many times as early as the 7th, not many of today's pitchers ever make it through a lineup 3 times. Since it is not a part of the modern game, Carlton's incredible durability is not as appreciated as it should be by modern fans, in my opinion. Today 200 innings is a sign of a useful starting pitcher (and the fact that there are 5 man rotations today simply allows substandard pitchers into a rotation--while at the same time not particularly cutting down on pitchers' injuries). It can be said with some confidence that most of today's starters will not accumulate the number of complete games in a career that Carlton did in 1972. End of rant. Except to say that pitching always was the name of the game and still is. If pitchers were trained differently, they might be able to respond differently.
An interesting feature of this game was that it was a birthday present from Carlton to his wife Beverly. Five starts earlier (see Start 25 below), after his 15th win (10th in a row), she knew that he would be pitching this game for his 20th victory (15th in a row) and it is what she asked for as a birthday present. When this game ended he was roared out for an encore by over 42,00 or 50,000 (depending on the source) of the most critical sports fans in the country. Would he achieve 20 consecutive wins? Could he reach 30 wins? These were questions in the back of his mind. Enough starts were left for both markers to be reached. Only time would tell.
The Reds' 3-4-5 hitters, Bobby Tolan (Wikipedia), Johnny Bench (H), and Denis Menke were 1-10 with 1 RBI and 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 61-317 (.192) with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 27 RBI. Carlton's ERA grew from 2.05 to 2.12.
And one final note about how baseball was played in 1972. This game, which had 13 runs, 23 hits (including 8 extra base hits), 7 walks & 5 strikeouts, and 5 "crooked" numbers put on the scoreboard, lasted 2 hours and 4 minutes. It was Carlton's first start in his last 6 that lasted more than 2 hours.
Newspaper story quotes:
From the Reading Eagle:
"I was very happy I could give it to her."
Steve Carlton, on presenting his wife his 20th victory as a
birthday present.
"That's my birtday and that's what I want. You're 20th victory."
Beverly Carlton, about 3 weeks before her birthday, on the
occasion of Carlton's 15th win and 10th win in a row. (July
28--see start 25 below).
"I haven't beaten them since 1967. You have to stay on top of that lineup...You never can relax."
Steve Carlton, discussing the soon to be National League Champion
Cincinnati Reds.
"I want to thank my teammates for their super support. They scored runs, got the big hits, and played great defense."
Steve Carlton
"We want Steve! We want Steve!"
Chant by the crowd of over 42,000 or 53,000 (depending on the source). Carlton came out for an encore, which can be seen in the photos accompanying the game stories.
"It felt great. I want to thank the fans. It was touching. Nothing like it ever happened to me before."
Steve Carlton
"I can't say I can shut 30 games out of my mind. But my goal is 25."
Steve Carlton
From the Beaver County Times:
"It's got to make you cry. To be called back like that. I've never seen anything like it.
Paul Owens, Phillies Manager/General Manager on the crowd response after the last out.
NY 000 201 010--4-8-1--(69-64--70-64) 3 E -16.0 g
Phi 200 000 000--2-6-0--(49-86--49-87) 6 E -38.0 g
Time: 2:12; Attendance: 10,317; Monday night game: 7:35pm. Home Plate Umpire: John Kibler (retrosheet.org) (0 ejections in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F, 8:00--68, 9:00--68, 10:00 66
Wind: 7:00--10mph(Out of SW), 8:00--9(SW), 9:00--13(SW), 10:00--13(SW)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--53%; 8:00--56, 9:00--59, 10:00--63
7:00-9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, September 11 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
New York Times (Proprietary): METS BEAT PHILS AND CARLTON 4-2: Dyer Slugs a Homer, Triple, Single to Lead Attack, by Joseph Durso (September 12, P. 37, 40).
Reading Eagle: "Duffy Dyer Spoils It For Carlton," by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press, September 12, P. 26).
Times Headline: "HOUSE(of Representatives) UNIT (Appropriations Committee) VOTES A $4.3 BILLION CUT IN DEFENSE FUNDS: But $74.6 Billion Measure Is Largest Recommended Since World War II: END-THE-WAR BID LOST: Outlays Provided For Most Key Weapons Programs (Nixon) Administration Sought," by John W. Feeney (September 12, 1972, P. 1, 14).
Eagle Headline: "South Vietnamese Penetrate (Quang Tri City) Citadel" (United Press International, September 12, P. 1).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
(#1: I'm Still in Love With You, by Al Green; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
In Carlton's last start, a newspaper story speculated about how much the idea of 30 wins was motivating him. Today we found out. It was motivating him a lot. The loss to the Mets closed, for all practical purposes, the door on 30 wins. Imagine, with just a bit more luck, a bit more support, he could have won 30 on a team that, with just a little less luck and support, could have lost 100. But it was not to be. He was admittedly off, bothered by lack of control of his fastball for the last few starts, thinking it was a mechanical problem, but not being able to solve it. His inside fastball has been leaking over the plate or moving too far inside. Tonight it really hurt him. The Phillies gave him the usual one inning of support (the 1st), and this time that meant only 2 runs. They loaded the bases in the third but it came to nothing. And then the usual goose eggs for the rest of the game.
Carlton literally lost control in the 4th, walking 2 in a row for only the second time this season. Before the inning was over the score was tied. Duffy Dyer, his chief tormentor (3-4 with a triple, home run, and 3 RBI--this was Dyer's career best game [retrosheet.org]) brought home the Mets first run on a force out that shortstop Larry Bowa made a brilliant stop on. The second run came on a "jammed curve ball" cue shot by Jim Beauchamp (Wikipedia) that curled over First Baseman Joe Lis' head for a double. Dyer then took Carlton downtown over the left field fence (Durso, New York Times) in the 6th and knocked in the final run of the game with a triple to center in the 8th.
The Mets 3, 4, 5 hitters (John Milner, Cleon Jones, and Jim Fregosi) were 2-11 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 77-386 (.199) with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA increased 2.09 to 2.14.
Quotes from the game stories:
From the New York Times
"It took a collective effort to corral Carlton, who was leading the league in starts, victories, shutouts, complete games, innings pitched, and strike-outs."
Joseph Durso
From the Reading Eagle
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Mets
1. T. Agee R,8......(1)K..........(3)g(4-3)...(5)f(9)...(7)g(5-3).g(1-3)
2. B. Harrelson B,6.(1)1b(7)......(4)W&.......(5)f(7)...(7)W
3. J. Milner L,7....(1)gDP(4-6-3).(4)W........(5)K......(7)f(8)
3. D. Marshall L,9
4. C. Jones R,9,7...(2)g(4-3).....(4)1b(7)....(6)f(8)...(8)1b(3)
5. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)f(9)*......(4)K........(6)f(8)...(8)f(8)
5. W. Garrett L,5
6. D. Dyer R,2......(2)1b(7)......(4)g(6-4)+..(6)HR(7)^.(8)3b(8)
7. J. Beauchamp R,3.(2)Kc.........(4)2b(9)....(6)1b(7)..(8)fDP(9-2)
7, E. Kranepool L,3
8. T. Martinez R,4..(3)f(8).......(4)IW.......(6)K......(9)f(9)
9. J. Koosman R,1...(3)g(5-3).....(4)f(9).....(7)g(5-3).
9. T. McGraw R,1........................................(9)g(5-3)
*=Foul ball
&=Carlton threw a wild pitch while Milner was at bat, moving Harrelson to second
+=Harrelson scored and Milner went to third on Dyer's force out
^Source of Dyer's Home Run direction--Joseph Durso, New York Times
For Carlton(#1: I'm Still in Love With You, by Al Green; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
In Carlton's last start, a newspaper story speculated about how much the idea of 30 wins was motivating him. Today we found out. It was motivating him a lot. The loss to the Mets closed, for all practical purposes, the door on 30 wins. Imagine, with just a bit more luck, a bit more support, he could have won 30 on a team that, with just a little less luck and support, could have lost 100. But it was not to be. He was admittedly off, bothered by lack of control of his fastball for the last few starts, thinking it was a mechanical problem, but not being able to solve it. His inside fastball has been leaking over the plate or moving too far inside. Tonight it really hurt him. The Phillies gave him the usual one inning of support (the 1st), and this time that meant only 2 runs. They loaded the bases in the third but it came to nothing. And then the usual goose eggs for the rest of the game.
Carlton literally lost control in the 4th, walking 2 in a row for only the second time this season. Before the inning was over the score was tied. Duffy Dyer, his chief tormentor (3-4 with a triple, home run, and 3 RBI--this was Dyer's career best game [retrosheet.org]) brought home the Mets first run on a force out that shortstop Larry Bowa made a brilliant stop on. The second run came on a "jammed curve ball" cue shot by Jim Beauchamp (Wikipedia) that curled over First Baseman Joe Lis' head for a double. Dyer then took Carlton downtown over the left field fence (Durso, New York Times) in the 6th and knocked in the final run of the game with a triple to center in the 8th.
The Mets 3, 4, 5 hitters (John Milner, Cleon Jones, and Jim Fregosi) were 2-11 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 77-386 (.199) with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA increased 2.09 to 2.14.
Quotes from the game stories:
From the New York Times
"It took a collective effort to corral Carlton, who was leading the league in starts, victories, shutouts, complete games, innings pitched, and strike-outs."
Joseph Durso
From the Reading Eagle
"After last night's loss, however, he admitted that he'd been thinking of 30. 'I feel 30 (wins) is mathematically eliminated now,' he said in a voice so low it was hardly discernible."..."'Too many things have to happen to win 30,' he added with resignation."
Steve Carlton, as described by AP writer Ralph Bernstein.
Bernstein later described Carlton as "crushed by the loss."
"'I was disappointed in the way I pitched. I feel I could have won if my control was sharp. My location was poor. Five [sic] walks,' he said disgustedly."
Steve Carlton, evaluating his performance.
"Carlton's face was a study of disappointment and disgust at losing his chance for the magic 30 figure. He obviously was more upset than after any previous defeat. He stood at first with his back to questioners, delivering one word answers.
'You appear more uptight than usual,' someone said to the big pitcher. 'Why?' 'Bases on balls and losing,' he replied."
Steve Carlton, further analysis and self criticism.
"Carlton said he'd been having trouble the last three or four games with his fastball sailing...The inside strike--his best pitch this season--has been just a little off the plate. 'Everybody is taking it. That's what hurt tonight. Some of those pitches (to [Bud] Harrelson and [John] Milner in the fourth were too close to take."
Steve Carlton, more analysis. The article goes on to say that Carlton thinks it is a mechanical flaw but hasn't figured it out yet.
Not all in the Phillies camp were as hard on Carlton as he was on himself.
"The guy is only human. Give the batters some credit. I'll settle for those kind of games anytime. If we got a hit when we need it we'd have won 5-4 or 6-4."
Paul Owen, Phillies Manager.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Mets
1. T. Agee R,8......(1)K..........(3)g(4-3)...(5)f(9)...(7)g(5-3).g(1-3)
2. B. Harrelson B,6.(1)1b(7)......(4)W&.......(5)f(7)...(7)W
3. J. Milner L,7....(1)gDP(4-6-3).(4)W........(5)K......(7)f(8)
3. D. Marshall L,9
4. C. Jones R,9,7...(2)g(4-3).....(4)1b(7)....(6)f(8)...(8)1b(3)
5. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)f(9)*......(4)K........(6)f(8)...(8)f(8)
5. W. Garrett L,5
6. D. Dyer R,2......(2)1b(7)......(4)g(6-4)+..(6)HR(7)^.(8)3b(8)
7. J. Beauchamp R,3.(2)Kc.........(4)2b(9)....(6)1b(7)..(8)fDP(9-2)
7, E. Kranepool L,3
8. T. Martinez R,4..(3)f(8).......(4)IW.......(6)K......(9)f(9)
9. J. Koosman R,1...(3)g(5-3).....(4)f(9).....(7)g(5-3).
9. T. McGraw R,1........................................(9)g(5-3)
*=Foul ball
&=Carlton threw a wild pitch while Milner was at bat, moving Harrelson to second
+=Harrelson scored and Milner went to third on Dyer's force out
^Source of Dyer's Home Run direction--Joseph Durso, New York Times
Cumulative through 36 starts: 302 1/3 innings, 907 outs, 25 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 277 K, 276g, 306f(210 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unknown; 274 Pulled, 139 Up the middle, 176 Opposite field (1 Appeal, 22 double plays, 11 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 3 thrown out on the bases**
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
**One of the thrown out on the bases (Start 36) was caught in the outfield and turned into a double play when the runner attempted to tag up and score. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the thrown out on the bases count.
On Base: 81 W (7 intentional); 220 hits (162 1b, 38 2b, 5 3b, 15HR [including 1 Inside the Park HR]); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 76 runs (72 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 37 batters: Actual Pitches: 150 Pitch Count Estimate: (37*3.3) + (5*1.5) + (4*2.2)=138
Cardinals were 8-34
Outs: 27 (9 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 5K; 9g; 11f(11 outfield); 7 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 7 Opposite field; 1 double play (there were 2 but 1 was a strikeout-throw out double play. It was counted as an out on the bases but not a double play for these purposes).
---
Mets right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 33: 8-30
Outs: 4K, 8g, 10f (10 outfield) ; 6 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 7 opposite field; 1 out on the bases
On Base: 3 Walks (1 intentional), 8 hits (1 infield, 7 outfield) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b, 1HR); 5 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 wild pitch
Mets left handed hitter: Plate Appearances: 4: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 1g. 1f(1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk
+++
Start 35
September 7 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium Phi 2 St.L 1 Carlton 23-8 (2.09) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Al Santorini (Wikipedia) 6-10 (4.68)
One might say this was the closest to a "gimme" Carlton had all season, until one realizes how hard he had to fight for this win, his 23rd, and his 24th complete game. The Cardinals, out of the running, played a team that was as much AAA as Major League. Lou Brock (H), Joe Torre (H), and Ted Sizemore (H--elect) (Wikipedia) did not start. Matty Alou had been traded (a waiver deal) to the Oakland A's just before the September post-season eligibility deadline. So the Cardinals didn't have much "pop" in their lineup. Their starting pitcher was Al Santorini, a journeyman who pitched 6 seasons for 3 teams and whose best record was 8-14 (3.95) for the 1969 Padres, a team that lost 110 games. That year he pitched 184 2/3 innings, by far his most. In this, his final full season, he was 8-11 (4.11) and pitched 133 2/3 innings. But he gave the Cardinals 6 solid innings. It was a tight game all the way, but the young Cardinal batters were no match in the clutch for Carlton, who walked 2 and struck out 9. His 7th strikeout, Dwain Anderson in the 7th inning, gave him 269, breaking Jim Bunning's (H) franchise record, set in 1965 (BB, P. 192). Carlton has now struck out 272 in 293 1/3 innings. He has received 116 runs of support in 35 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts). This was Carlton's 100th career victory (BB, P. 192). His career record is now 100-70.
Al Santorini (6'0", 190 lbs, 17-38, 4.29, 3 saves, 1968-1973).
I could find no information about Santorini's repertoire or arm angle.
St.L 000 000 100--1-9-1--(63-68--63-69)--4 E -21.0 g
Phi 000 011 00x--2-6-0--(48-83--49-83)--6 E -35.0 g
Time: 1:49; Attendance: 12,151; Thursday night game 7:30 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Shag Crawford (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). For more on Crawford see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1: Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--76F, 8:00--72, 9:00--70
Wind: 7:00--12mph(Out of S), 8:00--8(SSE), 9:00--5(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--50%; 8:00--57, 9:00--59
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, September 7 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Gettysburg Times: "Steve Carlton wins 100th Major League Game and 23rd For Phillies, Meantime His Catcher Has Complaint On Umpire," by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 8, P. 11).
Reading Eagle: "Ump Calls Bateman A Begger," by Ron Rapoport (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 8, P. 22).
Eagle feature story: SportopicS, by John W. Smith. Discusses Rookie Dave Downs' (Wikipedia) upcoming 2nd Major League start after winning his first game with a shutout. Later in the story, the possibility of Carlton winning 30 games is discussed. It is interesting in that BB suggests that Carlton was thinking very much about the possibility of winning 30, while this article suggests that 30 was more Manager Paul Owens' (Wikipedia) idea than Carlton's. (September 8, P. 23)
Times Headline: "Conewago Negotiations Still Stalled After Five Hour Parlay; Parents Picket Teacher Lines" (regarding a strike by Conewago Valley Education Association teachers). (no byline, September 8, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: (Arab) Guerilla Bases Attacked (by Israel) (Associated Press, September 8, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
(#1: Brandy, by Looking Glass; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
(#1: Brandy, by Looking Glass; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
Thanks to back to back 2 out triples in the 5th inning by Larry Bowa and Tommy Hutton (Wikipedia), followed by a solo home run in the 6th by Greg Luzinski, Carlton, who scattered 9 hits and struck out 9, was able to win his 23rd game of the season. It wasn't his best performance of the season, and the opposition was a Cardinals "second team", but he locked up in quite a pitcher's duel with Cardinal journeyman Al Santorini. The Cardinals had base runners in the seven of their nine at bats, but with the exception of the 7th, when 2 two out singles scored their only run, Carlton was able to keep them off the scoreboard. He claimed the all time Phillies strikeout record and his 100th Major League win. The only other item of interest in this dreary, meaningless (in the standings) game between two teams who were a composite 40 games under .500 (see game stories above and quotes below) was the dust up between Phillies catcher John Bateman and Home Plate Umpire Shag Crawford.
The Cardinals' 3,4,5 hitters, Luis Melendez (Wikipedia), Skip Jutze (who was playing in his 7th Major League game), and Ted Simmons (H--elect) (Wikipedia) were 4-12 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 75-375 (.200) with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.12 to 2.09
Quotes from the game stories.
From the Gettysburg Times
"When it (the Carlton for Rick Wise trade) was made we knew that Carlton was a good pitcher and we knew that Wise was a good pitcher...We knew that Steve was a real fine pitcher. He won 20 games last year and he was just coming into his own, I thought. He has fine rhythm on the mound. He has a fine curveball and fastball, and he won a few games this year with his hitting, which helps a pitcher tremendously.
Red Schoendienst (H) (1--SABR Biography) (2--SABR oral interview), Cardinals Manager, on "the trade" and Carlton.
From the game story by Ralph Bernstein (Associated Press) relating to Phillies catcher John Bateman on a ball and strike call he thought Plate Umpire Shag Crawford got wrong.
"I told him 'Let's go, let's go'. He walked in front of the plate and said to me: 'Don't tell me what to do.' I said 'I'm not telling you what to do.' He then said 'Bleep you.'
Bateman said he would write a letter to National League President Chub Feeney (Wikipedia) about the incident. 'I've paid fines for saying less than that,' said Bateman.
In the umpire's dressing room, Crawford was "bleeping" mad. 'Bleep him," said Crawford. That's what I told him and I'm saying it again. That bleeping butcher. He's a beggar--begging for strikes.'"
From the Reading Eagle
"We had no idea how to pitch them. We found out we pitched a lot of them wrong."
Steve Carlton, on pitching to the Cardinals' "second" team.
From the feature story:
"Meanwhile, it seemed that Owens is more eager for Carlton to win 30 than Carlton is.
Paul was detailing his plans to let Steve win as many games as possible -- pitch him every fourth day and then let him work with two days' rest in the season's final, which would give him seven more starts: possibly use him in relief in a tie game in the late innings: take him out early if the Phils get a really big lead, etc.
Carlton winced at the idea of any relief work. "I don't want to get greedy."
John W. Smith--Sports Feature Writer.
--------------------------------
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Cardinals
1. B. Stein R,7.......(1)1b(7)$..(3)f(7).......(5)K......(7)1b(8)
2. M. Tyson R,4.......(1)K.......(3)K
2. T. Sizemore R,PH,4..........................(6)f(7)...(7)f(7)
3. L. Melendez R,9....(1)g(4-3)..(4)f(9).......(6)g(6-3).(8)g(1-3)
4. S. Jutze R,2.......(1)f(9)....(4)1b(8)......(6)1b(8)..(8)Kc
5. T. Simmons(H) B,3..(2)2b(8)$#.(4)gDP(4-6-3).(6)g(5-3).(8)1b(9)
6. K. Reitz R,5.......(2)g(6-3)..(5)g(6-3).....(7)1b(8)..(8)g(5-4)
7. J. Roque R,8.......(2)W.......(5)f(9).......(7)K......(9)g(6-3)
8. M. Kelleher R,6....(2)K.......(5)1b(7)
8. D. Anderson R,PH,6..........................(7)K!.....(9)f(8)
9. A. Santorini R,1...(3)K.......(5)W
9. J. Torre R,PH...............................(7)1b(8)
9. D. Durham R,PR..............................(7)PR^
9. C. Hudson L,1
9. G. McNertney R,PH.....................................(9)K
$=Stein stole 2nd while Tyson was at bat
$=Simmons stole 3rd while Roque was at bat
#=Simmons was out trying to steal home as Kelleher struck out,
Bateman (2) to Money (5)
!=this was Carlton's 268th K, breaking the all time Phillie record for strikeouts set by Jim Bunning (H) in 1965.
^Durham substituted for Torre as a pinch runner.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 35 starts: 293 1/3 innings, 880 outs, 24 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 272 K, 267g, 295f (199 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unknown; 267 Pulled, 133 Up the middle, 169 Opposite field (1 appeal, 21 double plays, 11 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
On Base: 77 W (6 intentional), 212 hits (157 1b, 37 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 72 runs (68 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 212-996(.213) +77 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.99
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and for all 13 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 2 Walks, 9 hits, (9 outfield hits), (8 1b, 1 2b); 2 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 1 opposite field; 2 stolen bases.
+++
Start 34
1. B. Stein R,7.......(1)1b(7)$..(3)f(7).......(5)K......(7)1b(8)
2. M. Tyson R,4.......(1)K.......(3)K
2. T. Sizemore R,PH,4..........................(6)f(7)...(7)f(7)
3. L. Melendez R,9....(1)g(4-3)..(4)f(9).......(6)g(6-3).(8)g(1-3)
4. S. Jutze R,2.......(1)f(9)....(4)1b(8)......(6)1b(8)..(8)Kc
5. T. Simmons(H) B,3..(2)2b(8)$#.(4)gDP(4-6-3).(6)g(5-3).(8)1b(9)
6. K. Reitz R,5.......(2)g(6-3)..(5)g(6-3).....(7)1b(8)..(8)g(5-4)
7. J. Roque R,8.......(2)W.......(5)f(9).......(7)K......(9)g(6-3)
8. M. Kelleher R,6....(2)K.......(5)1b(7)
8. D. Anderson R,PH,6..........................(7)K!.....(9)f(8)
9. A. Santorini R,1...(3)K.......(5)W
9. J. Torre R,PH...............................(7)1b(8)
9. D. Durham R,PR..............................(7)PR^
9. C. Hudson L,1
9. G. McNertney R,PH.....................................(9)K
$=Stein stole 2nd while Tyson was at bat
$=Simmons stole 3rd while Roque was at bat
#=Simmons was out trying to steal home as Kelleher struck out,
Bateman (2) to Money (5)
!=this was Carlton's 268th K, breaking the all time Phillie record for strikeouts set by Jim Bunning (H) in 1965.
^Durham substituted for Torre as a pinch runner.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 35 starts: 293 1/3 innings, 880 outs, 24 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 272 K, 267g, 295f (199 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unknown; 267 Pulled, 133 Up the middle, 169 Opposite field (1 appeal, 21 double plays, 11 caught stealing*, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
*One of the caught stealing (Start 35) turned into a strikeout-throw out double play. I did not include that in the double play count but did include it in the caught stealing count.
On Base: 77 W (6 intentional), 212 hits (157 1b, 37 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 72 runs (68 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and for all 13 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 36 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (36*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (2*2.2)=137
Cardinals were 9-34
Outs: 27 (13 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 9K; 9g; 7f(7 outfield); 9 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing, 1 double play (there were 2 but 1 was a strikeout-throw out double play. It was counted as a caught stealing but not as a double play for these purposes).
+++
Start 34
September 3 at Atlanta Stadium (the stadium wasn't renamed Atlanta Fulton-County Stadium until 1975--Wikipedia) Phi 8 Atl 0 Carlton 22-8 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jim Hardin (R) 3-2 (4.06)
Carlton cruised to his 22nd win, his 23rd complete game, and 8th shutout, in an 8-0 win over Atlanta. The Phillies, as they have in several of his starts, scored all their runs with most of their offensive output, in one inning. Only this one was a really big inning, 8 runs, 8 hits, 12 batters in the 3rd inning. They didn't get another base runner until the 9th. He walked 3 and struck out 4. He has now struck out 263 in 284 1/3 innings. He has received 114 runs of support in 34 starts (47 of those coming in 6 of the starts). Henry Aaron (H) got a base hit in the first inning, giving him the all time MLB lead in career total bases with 6,135. He passed Stan Musial (H), who still, in 2020, is in 2nd place with 6,134. Willie Mays (H) is in 3rd place with 6,066. Aaron finished his 23 year career with 6,856 total bases. It is one of his less well known career records, but one of the most impressive. It averages to 298 total bases a year for 23 years. Aaron is one of only 2 non-Lively Ball (1920s and 1930s) or Steroid Era players to accumulate 400 total bases in a single season (1958, at age 25). (Musial is the other. He did it in 1948). The magic 400 mark has been achieved 29 times in MLB history.
Jim Hardin's Repertoire (6' 0", 175 lbs, 43-32, 3.18, 4 saves, 1967-1972)
Partial: 1. Fastball; 2. Changeup
(Jim Palmer, Palmer and Weaver: Together We were eleven foot nine, by Jim Palmer and Jim Dale, 1996, P. 24, via Hardin SABR biography).
Hardin's career was cut short by arm injuries. His best year was 1968 when he went 18-13, 2.51 ERA, with 16 complete games and 242 innings pitched. His Baltimore Orioles team won over 90 games but came in a distant second to the Detroit Tigers. He was a member of all three Orioles Pennant winning teams from 1969-71 but never pitched in the post season. He was killed at age 47 in a plane crash in 1991.
Arm angle: Unknown
Phi 008 000 000--8-12-0--(46-81--47-81)--6 E -34.0
Atl 000 000 000--0--5-0--(59-71--59-72)--4 W -23.0
Time: 2:00; Attendance: 5,119; Sunday day game: 2:15pm; Home Plate Umpire: Doug Harvey (H) (0 ejections in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--85F; 3:00--85; 4:00--85
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (from the NW); 3:00--13 (NW); 4:00--5 (SSW); ; Blowing in then out
Humidity: 2:00--46%; 3:00--48%; 4:00--46%
Mostly cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play, September 3 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Gettysburg Times: "Hank Aaron Establishes All-Time Mark For Total Bases At Philadelphia [sic] While Steve Carlton Also Sets Own Records (Associated Press compendium of National League games, September 4, P. 6).
Times Headline: Predict Americans On Charter Flights May Be Stranded In Europe," by Lewis Gulick (Associated Press, P. 3)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
(#1: Brandy, by Looking Glass; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
Carlton got back on track with a 5 hit shutout, his 8th of the season. It was also his 23rd complete game. For the third consecutive outing, he struck out less than 5. He twirled very effectively and quickly (2 hours) in the 85 degree heat. Only 3 Atlanta runners reached 2nd base. Carlton was helped not only by one of the Phillies most productive innings of the year (an 8 run third that he opened with a single, and included 6 consecutive hits, with back to back home runs by Joe Lis and Greg Luzinski), but also by sparkling Phillies defense, highlighted by three double plays, each started by Third Baseman Don Money (Minor League Baseball News). Atlanta had only 2 runners reach second base in the game.
Atlanta's 3-4-5 hitters (Aaron (H), Dusty Baker (Wikipedia), and Rico Carty, were 2-10, with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 71-363 (.196) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.19 to 2.12.
"Eight runs make a lot of difference, but you can't be content in the late innings with a big inning. You've got to keep trying for the shutout, for when the other team gets even one run, they are that much nearer to beating you. You can't ever give in."
Steve Carlton, on how a great pitcher thinks.
"(..it) bothered me at first but it got better. It was a short game and that made it easier."
Steve Carlton on the heat in Atlanta.
"Every time Carlton goes out he has good stuff. He was still burning them in, even in the ninth inning in all that heat."
John Bateman, who caught most of Carlton's 27 wins.
(#1: Brandy, by Looking Glass; #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago).
Carlton got back on track with a 5 hit shutout, his 8th of the season. It was also his 23rd complete game. For the third consecutive outing, he struck out less than 5. He twirled very effectively and quickly (2 hours) in the 85 degree heat. Only 3 Atlanta runners reached 2nd base. Carlton was helped not only by one of the Phillies most productive innings of the year (an 8 run third that he opened with a single, and included 6 consecutive hits, with back to back home runs by Joe Lis and Greg Luzinski), but also by sparkling Phillies defense, highlighted by three double plays, each started by Third Baseman Don Money (Minor League Baseball News). Atlanta had only 2 runners reach second base in the game.
Atlanta's 3-4-5 hitters (Aaron (H), Dusty Baker (Wikipedia), and Rico Carty, were 2-10, with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 71-363 (.196) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.19 to 2.12.
"Eight runs make a lot of difference, but you can't be content in the late innings with a big inning. You've got to keep trying for the shutout, for when the other team gets even one run, they are that much nearer to beating you. You can't ever give in."
Steve Carlton, on how a great pitcher thinks.
"(..it) bothered me at first but it got better. It was a short game and that made it easier."
Steve Carlton on the heat in Atlanta.
"Every time Carlton goes out he has good stuff. He was still burning them in, even in the ninth inning in all that heat."
John Bateman, who caught most of Carlton's 27 wins.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Atlanta
1. Os.Brown R,9.....(1)K......(3)g(5-3).(6)1b(?).....(9)2b(?)
2. R. Gilbreath R,5.(1)K...(4)1b(?)..(6)gDP(5-4-3).(9)g(6-4)%
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3..(1)1b(5)&.(4)?(2)..(7)W..........(9)1b(?)
4. D. Baker R,8.....(1)f(4)...(4)W.....(7)f(4).......(9)f(8)
5. R. Carty R,7.....(2)g(4-3).(4)gDP(5-3)(7)K........(9)?(2)
6. P. Casanova R,2..(2)f(L5)..(5)f(4).......(7)f(4)
7. L. Blanks R,4....(2)g(6-3).(5)W..........(8)f(8)
8. M. Perez R,6.....(3)f(7)...(5)gDP(5-4-3).(8)g(6-3)
9. J. Hardin R,1
9. T. Kelley R,1....(3)f(5)...(6(K)
9. R. Schueler R,1
9. G. Garrido R,PH..........................(8)f(8)
9. J. Hoerner R,1
&=Aaron's single is his 6,135 career total base, passing Stan Musial and moving into first place on the All Time MLB list.
%=Brown was out at third, Bowa (6) to Doyle (4).
For Carlton
Cumulative through 34 starts: 284 1/3 innings, 853 outs, 23 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 263 K, 258g, 288f (192 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unkown; 258 Pulled, 131 Up the middle, 164 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 20 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 75 W (6 intentional); 203 hits (149 1b, 36 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 71 runs (67 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 203-962(.211) +75 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and for all 11 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 3 Walks, 5 hits, (1 infield, 4 unknown) (4 1b, 1 2b); 1 Pulled, 4 unknown direction
+++
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Atlanta
1. Os.Brown R,9.....(1)K......(3)g(5-3).(6)1b(?).....(9)2b(?)
2. R. Gilbreath R,5.(1)K...(4)1b(?)..(6)gDP(5-4-3).(9)g(6-4)%
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3..(1)1b(5)&.(4)?(2)..(7)W..........(9)1b(?)
4. D. Baker R,8.....(1)f(4)...(4)W.....(7)f(4).......(9)f(8)
5. R. Carty R,7.....(2)g(4-3).(4)gDP(5-3)(7)K........(9)?(2)
6. P. Casanova R,2..(2)f(L5)..(5)f(4).......(7)f(4)
7. L. Blanks R,4....(2)g(6-3).(5)W..........(8)f(8)
8. M. Perez R,6.....(3)f(7)...(5)gDP(5-4-3).(8)g(6-3)
9. J. Hardin R,1
9. T. Kelley R,1....(3)f(5)...(6(K)
9. R. Schueler R,1
9. G. Garrido R,PH..........................(8)f(8)
9. J. Hoerner R,1
&=Aaron's single is his 6,135 career total base, passing Stan Musial and moving into first place on the All Time MLB list.
%=Brown was out at third, Bowa (6) to Doyle (4).
For Carlton
Cumulative through 34 starts: 284 1/3 innings, 853 outs, 23 complete games, 8 shutouts
Outs: 263 K, 258g, 288f (192 outfield, 96 infield), 7 unkown; 258 Pulled, 131 Up the middle, 164 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 20 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 75 W (6 intentional); 203 hits (149 1b, 36 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 71 runs (67 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 203-962(.211) +75 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game (and for all 11 right handed batters)
Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 32 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (32*3.3) + (4*1.5) + (3*2.2)=118
Atlanta was 5-29
Outs: 27 (11 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 4 K; 8g; 10f(4 infield, 6 outfield), 2 unknown; 10 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field, 3 double plays
Start 33
August 30 at Houston Astrodome: Hou 5 Phi 3 Carlton 21-8 (2.19) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Reuss (L) 9-10 (4.11) Jerry Reuss in action (final 3 outs of his no-hitter v Giants June 27, 1980) (Jerry Reuss Youtube).
Carlton began well but weakened in his last two innings, giving up 3 of his 4 walks, all 3 of his hits, and 3 runs. For the second time in the last four starts, he walked more than he struck out. This was also the second time all season that happened. He was removed for a pinch hitter in the 7th inning. The Phillies turned 12 hits into 2 earned runs, leaving 9 on the bases. The Astros had 5 hits for the game and 5 walks, which they parlayed into 5 runs (3 of which were earned). The two runs that were the actual margin of victory came when Cesar Cedeno (having a career year at age 22: 1st in NL in doubles, tied for 3rd in triples, 3rd in stolen bases, 4th in batting average, 4th in slugging %, and a Gold Glove in center field) attempted to steal 2nd base in the 7th inning. The Phillies, due to Larry Bowa having to leave the game earlier, had a 2nd baseman playing shortstop. John Bateman's throw was perfect but nobody covered the base and two runs scored (BB, P. 189). Carlton now has 259 strikeouts in 275 1/3 innings. He has received 106 runs of support in 33 starts (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts).
Jerry Reuss' Repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 220-191, 11 saves, 1969-1990).
1. "Key Pitch" until the mid 1980s: Fastball
"I'll bet he didn't throw more than two or three curves all day."
Dodger catcher Steve Yeager after Reuss beat the Yankees 2-1 with a complete game 5 hitter (video) to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead in the 1981 World Series (The Sporting News, November 7, 1981 via NJ, P. 356).
"Reuss' fastball was "his bread and butter pitch"..."breaking this far"
Ron Perranoski, Dodgers pitching coach in 1982, ("holding his hands one foot apart") (Gordon Verrell, The Sporting News, September 27, 1982 via NJ, P. 356)
After 3 elbow surgeries in the 1980s
1. Cut or sinking fastball; 2. Slow curve; 3. Changeup.
Arm angle: overhand
Phi 000 010 020--3-12-1--(44-77--44-78) 6 E -32.5 g
Hou 000 021 20x--5--5-2--(70-54--71-54) 2 W -7.5 g
Time: 2:07; Attendance: 10,264; Wednesday night game 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (Retrosheet) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Standings at the Close of Play, August 30 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
I could find no game stories that gave any more information than what can be gathered from the play by play. For the second consecutive start, Carlton did not pitch a complete game. He pitched well early, giving up no hits through the first 4 innings. The Phillies gave him a lead in the 4th when Terry Harmon (Wikipedia) hit an inside the park home run, the first home run of his career (he finished with 4 home runs in a ten year career) but Carlton couldn't hold it, giving the lead up in the bottom half. The Astros scored 2 runs on a walk, single, double, and a force play. In the 6th they touched him for one more run on a walk, stolen base, and single. As the Phillies had done nothing more offensively since the Harmon home run, Carlton was lifted for a pinch hitter. His outing was hampered by the two walks, which both scored. That and a nightmare 7th inning (see above) gave the Astros the victory. It allowed them to stay in touch with the rampaging Cincinnati Reds, who were 78-46 (70-33 since a poor start). But time was running out.
The Astros' 3-4-5 hitters, Jim Wynn (AKA the "Toy Cannon"), Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) were 2-10 with 1 RBI and 2 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 69-353 (.195) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 31 RBI. Carlton's ERA rose from 2.12 to 2.19.
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--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)K......(3)g(3-1).(5)g(4-6)#
2. C. Cedeno R,8..(1)K......(4)f(8)...(5)f(9)
3. J. Wynn R,9....(1)W......(4)f(7)...(6)W@
4. L. May R,3.....(1)f(L8)..(4)f(5)...(6)K
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)g(4-3).(5)f(8)...(6)1b(?)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)f(6)...(5)W......(6)g(5-4)
7. T. Helms R,6...(2)f(8)...(5)1b(7)..(6)g(4-3)
8. L. Howard R,2..(3)g(6-3).(5)2b(7)
9. J. Reuss L,1...(3)f(8)...(5)W
#=Helms scored on Metzger's force out, Howard went to 3rd.
@=Wynn stole second while May was at bat.
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)K......(3)g(3-1).(5)g(4-6)#
2. C. Cedeno R,8..(1)K......(4)f(8)...(5)f(9)
3. J. Wynn R,9....(1)W......(4)f(7)...(6)W@
4. L. May R,3.....(1)f(L8)..(4)f(5)...(6)K
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)g(4-3).(5)f(8)...(6)1b(?)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)f(6)...(5)W......(6)g(5-4)
7. T. Helms R,6...(2)f(8)...(5)1b(7)..(6)g(4-3)
8. L. Howard R,2..(3)g(6-3).(5)2b(7)
9. J. Reuss L,1...(3)f(8)...(5)W
#=Helms scored on Metzger's force out, Howard went to 3rd.
@=Wynn stole second while May was at bat.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 33 starts: 275 1/3 innings, 826 outs, 22 complete games, 7 shutouts.
Outs: 259 K, 250g, 278f (186 outfield 92 infield); 5 unknown, 248 Pulled, 126 Up the middle, 159 Opposite Field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 72 W (6 intentional); 198 hits (145 1b, 35 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 71 runs (67 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 198-933(.212) +72 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 25 batters (6 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (25*3.3) + (3*1.5) + (4*2.2)=96
Astros were 3-21
Outs: 18 (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 3 K; 6g; 9f(2 infield, 7 outfield); 5 pulled, 5 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field
---
Astros right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 23: 3-20
Outs: 3K, 6g, 8f (2 infield, 6 outfield) ; 5 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 5 opposite field
On Base: 4 Walks, 3 hits (3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b); 2 Pulled, 1 unknown direction, 1 stolen base
Astros left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 2: 0-1
Outs: 0K, 0g. 1f(1 outfield); 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
On Base: none
August 26 at Cincinnati Riverfront Stadium Phi 4 Cin 3 Carlton 21-7 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jim McGlothlin 7-6 (3.65) McGlothlin in action (Game 5, 1972 World Series)
Carlton, pitching on more than 3 days rest for the 7th time this season, had a poor game. He gave up 12 hits, the most he has all season, walked 1 and struck out 4. He was removed in the 9th inning when the Reds' previous 8 batters (8th and 9th) touched him up for 5 hits, including 2 doubles and a home run. In addition he threw his 5th wild pitch of the season. For once someone bailed him out. Guerrant McCurdy (also known as "Mac") Scarce came in and struck out Bobby Tolan (Wikipedia) and Joe Morgan (H) with the tying and winning runs on 2nd and 3rd to preserve Carlton's 21st win. He has now struck out 256 in 269 1/3 innings. He has received 105 runs of support in 32 starts (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts.)
Jim McGlothlin's Repertoire (6'1", 185 lbs, 67-77, 3.61, 3 saves, 1965-1973)
1. Fastball; 2. Slow Curve, 3. Big Curve (The Sporting News, Earl Lawson, October 2, 1971; Putting It All Together, by Brooks Robinson with Fred Bauer, 1971), via NJ, P. 302.
"McGlothlin threw two fastballs, a straight fastball and a 'tailing' fastball. His changeup had a screwball action." (NJ, P. 302)
McGlothlin pitched in two World Series for the Reds. He started the 2nd game of the 1970 World Series (Canadian Broadcasting Company video), a no decision in a 6-5 loss to the Baltimore Orioles. In the 5th game of the 1972 World Series, he had another no decision in a 5-4 Reds win over the Oakland A's. His best seasons were 1967 (12-8, 2.96 ERA, 6 shutouts for the California Angels--he pitched 2 scoreless innings in the 1967 All-Star Game), and 1970 (14-10, 3.59). McGlothlin passed away from a rare form of leukemia in 1975, at age 32.
Arm angle: three quarters
Phi 001 002 001--4--8-0--(43-75--44-75) 6 E -30.0 g
Cin 000 000 021--3-12-1--(75-44--75-45) 1 W +8.0 g
Time: 2:28; Attendance: 34,028; Saturday night game: 8:00 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet.org)
Weather conditions (Partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--79F, 11:00--71
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of W), 11:00--6(W)
Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--77%; 11:00--75
8:00--Partly Cloudy; 11:00 Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 26 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
I could find no game stories that gave any more information than what can be gathered from the play by play. The win broke a 5 game Phillies losing streak, and was followed by another 4 game losing streak. This was the first time in the last 10 starts that Carlton did not pitch a complete game. He also singled in a run. A game that featured 20 hits, 6 walks and 8 strikeouts, was played in 2 hours 28 minutes.
The Reds 3-4-5 hitters (Tolan, Johnny Bench [H], and Tony Perez [H]) were 3-12 with a home run (Perez), 2 RBI, and 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 67-343 (.195) with with 9 home runs (7 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 30 RBI. Carlton's ERA rose from 2.10 to 2.12.
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Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Alone Again, Naturally, by Gilbert O'Sullivan); #1 Album: Chicago V, by Chicago.
In other baseball news, Danny MacFayden, who pitched for 17 seasons (1926-1941, 1943), for the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, Boston NL team/Bees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Washington Senators, passed away today. There are hundreds of Major League players who had long but forgotten careers, and MacFayden was one of them. His statistics look rather ordinary for a man who pitched for 17 seasons. MacFayden followed the route Carlton has followed this year (with considerably less success). He followed it much longer, and on teams that were worse than the '72 Phillies.
He pitched for 3 teams that lost over 100 games (154 game seasons), including one of the absolutely worst teams of all time, the 1935 Boston NL club (38-115--.248, a worse percentage than the 1962 New York Mets and 2nd worst in the modern era, ahead of only the Philadelphia Athletics 36-117 in 1916. MacFayden replaced the recently retired Babe Ruth [H] on the 1935 Boston team. In fact, he played with Ruth the last four seasons of the Sultan of Swat's career). MacFayden also played on 3 teams that lost over 90. He played on six last (8th) place teams--including the first four full seasons of his career, two 6th place teams, and two 5th place teams. The teams he played for finished an average of 32.5 games out of first place. One of his teams finished over 60 games out, one over 50, and three over 40. During the 13 seasons he pitched regularly for one team, the "team" was 877-1,116 (.440). MacFayden was 123-142 (.464).
He also pitched for 3 New York Yankee teams in the 1930s. One was a World Champion (MacFayden was a mid-season acquisition and was not involved in the 1932 World Series). Two won over 90 games.
Toward the end of his career (1936-38) he pitched on two winning Bees teams. In 1936-38, the Bees were 227-231. MacFayden was 45-36. In 1936, he was 17-13 with an ERA of 2.87. The NL ERA that year was 4.07. In 1937 he was 14-14, 2.93 (league ERA was 3.91). In 1939 he was 14-9, 2.95 (league ERA was 3.78). He was in the top 10 ERA in the NL for each of those years.
In 1931 he was 16-12 on a team that was 62-90 (finished 6th). He finished his career 132-159, 3.96. He pitched 2,706 innings in 465 games. In his first Major League start his opponent was Walter Johnson (H), another pitcher who knew a thing or two about twirling for poor teams. He lost to the Big Train 5-1 but pitched a complete game. Afterward, Johnson told him: "Take your time, son, and get the ball over. Good luck."
MacFayden was 67 years old.
Danny MacFayden's (R) Repertoire (5'11", 170 lbs, 132-159, 3.96, 9 saves, 1926-1941, 1943)
1. Curve; 2. Fastball (Who's Who in the Major Leagues, 1939 edition; Red Sox Century, by Glenn Stout and Richard A. Johnson [2000]) via NJ, P. 287.
Arm angle: overhand and sidearm.
"In one game that I saw in 1938 he used one of the strangest deliveries ever seen--used with success, that is. With an overhand pitch he threw the ball to the plate no faster in motion or speed of the ball than if he were engaged in an ordinary game of catch with somebody who had merely a fielder's glove. But, though not much oftener than once in five times, he let go a really fast ball with just the same easy, preliminary action. The batters knew they had to be ready for that pitch. That is what made the other stuff good." (Play Ball, by Charles "Al" Chapman and Hank Severeid, 1941) via NJ, P. 287.
In other baseball news, Danny MacFayden, who pitched for 17 seasons (1926-1941, 1943), for the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, Boston NL team/Bees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Washington Senators, passed away today. There are hundreds of Major League players who had long but forgotten careers, and MacFayden was one of them. His statistics look rather ordinary for a man who pitched for 17 seasons. MacFayden followed the route Carlton has followed this year (with considerably less success). He followed it much longer, and on teams that were worse than the '72 Phillies.
He pitched for 3 teams that lost over 100 games (154 game seasons), including one of the absolutely worst teams of all time, the 1935 Boston NL club (38-115--.248, a worse percentage than the 1962 New York Mets and 2nd worst in the modern era, ahead of only the Philadelphia Athletics 36-117 in 1916. MacFayden replaced the recently retired Babe Ruth [H] on the 1935 Boston team. In fact, he played with Ruth the last four seasons of the Sultan of Swat's career). MacFayden also played on 3 teams that lost over 90. He played on six last (8th) place teams--including the first four full seasons of his career, two 6th place teams, and two 5th place teams. The teams he played for finished an average of 32.5 games out of first place. One of his teams finished over 60 games out, one over 50, and three over 40. During the 13 seasons he pitched regularly for one team, the "team" was 877-1,116 (.440). MacFayden was 123-142 (.464).
He also pitched for 3 New York Yankee teams in the 1930s. One was a World Champion (MacFayden was a mid-season acquisition and was not involved in the 1932 World Series). Two won over 90 games.
Toward the end of his career (1936-38) he pitched on two winning Bees teams. In 1936-38, the Bees were 227-231. MacFayden was 45-36. In 1936, he was 17-13 with an ERA of 2.87. The NL ERA that year was 4.07. In 1937 he was 14-14, 2.93 (league ERA was 3.91). In 1939 he was 14-9, 2.95 (league ERA was 3.78). He was in the top 10 ERA in the NL for each of those years.
In 1931 he was 16-12 on a team that was 62-90 (finished 6th). He finished his career 132-159, 3.96. He pitched 2,706 innings in 465 games. In his first Major League start his opponent was Walter Johnson (H), another pitcher who knew a thing or two about twirling for poor teams. He lost to the Big Train 5-1 but pitched a complete game. Afterward, Johnson told him: "Take your time, son, and get the ball over. Good luck."
MacFayden was 67 years old.
Danny MacFayden's (R) Repertoire (5'11", 170 lbs, 132-159, 3.96, 9 saves, 1926-1941, 1943)
1. Curve; 2. Fastball (Who's Who in the Major Leagues, 1939 edition; Red Sox Century, by Glenn Stout and Richard A. Johnson [2000]) via NJ, P. 287.
Arm angle: overhand and sidearm.
"In one game that I saw in 1938 he used one of the strangest deliveries ever seen--used with success, that is. With an overhand pitch he threw the ball to the plate no faster in motion or speed of the ball than if he were engaged in an ordinary game of catch with somebody who had merely a fielder's glove. But, though not much oftener than once in five times, he let go a really fast ball with just the same easy, preliminary action. The batters knew they had to be ready for that pitch. That is what made the other stuff good." (Play Ball, by Charles "Al" Chapman and Hank Severeid, 1941) via NJ, P. 287.
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7.......(1)g(6-3).(3)f(9)...(5)1b(9).(7)f(4)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4..(1)3b(?)..(4)1b(3)$.(5)f(L4).(8)g(1-3)
3. B. Tolan L,8......(1)K......(4)g(1-3).(6)1b(9)$.(8)2b(7)&
4. J. Bench(H) R,9...(1)K......(4)f(5)...(6)K.....(8)g(6-3)!
5. T. Perez(H) R,3...(2)?(3)...(4)W......(6)f(8)..(8)HR(8)
6. D. Menke R,5......(2)f(7)...(4)f(5)...(6)f(4)..(8)g(6-3)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(2)1b(8)#.(5)K......(7)f(9)..(9)1b(8)
8. B. Plummer R,2....(3)f(9)...(5)f(7)...(7)1b(8).(9)2b(7)
9. J. McGlothlin R,1.(3)f(7)...(5)1b(8)
9. H. McRae R,PH.........................(7)f(L7)
9. C. Carroll R,1
9. J. Javier R,PH.................................(9)1b(8)
#=Concepcion caught stealing, Bateman (2) to Doyle (4)
$=Morgan stole 2nd with Tolan batting
$=Tolan stole 2nd with Bench batting
&=Tolan went to 3rd on a wild pitch with Bench batting
!=Bench's ground out scored Tolan
Note: Source for direction of Perez' HR is BB, P. 188.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 32 starts: 269 1/3 innings, 808 outs, 22 complete games, 7 shutouts.
Outs: 256 K, 244g, 269f (179 outfield, 90 infield), 5 unknown; 243 Pulled, 121 Up the middle, 154 Opposite field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 10 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 68 walks (6 intentional); 195 hits (143 1b, 34 2b, 4 3b, 14HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 68 runs (64 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 195-912(.214) +68 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 36 batters (8 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (36*3.3) + (4*1.5) + (1*2.2)=127
Reds were 12-35
Outs: 24 (9 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 4 K; 5g; 13f(5 infield, 8 outfield), 1 unknown; 10 pulled, 3 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
---
Reds right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 28: 8-27
Outs: 3K, 3g, 12f (4 infield, 8 outfield), 1 unknown; 9 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 6 opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 1 Walk, 8 hits (8 outfield) (6 1b, 1 2b, 1HR); 1 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
Reds left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 8: 4-8; 2 stolen bases
Outs: 1K, 2g. 1f(1 infield); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks, 4 hits (1 infield, 3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b) 2 Pulled, 0 Up the Middle; 1 Opposite field, 1 direction unknown
Start 31
August 21 Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Atl 2 Phi 1 (11 innings); Carlton 20-7 (2.10) v Phil Niekro (H)(R) 12-10 (3.09) Niekro in action (Hall of Fame--includes final pitch of his 300th win, when he pitched for the Yankees)
Another large crowd (over 42,000 or 52,000 depending on the source) came out to see Carlton tie Jack Sanford's 16 consecutive wins in a season for the San Francisco Giants in 1962--and also Walter Johnson's [H] & Smokey Joe Wood's (Senators and Red Sox respectively) American League record (both 1912--see Start 29 below for more on that), that still stands, on his way to passing Rube Marquard's Major League record of 19, also in 1912, for the New York Giants (also still standing). Instead they saw one of the best pitcher's duels in a long time, an 11 inning double complete game that Phil Niekro (H) and Atlanta won 2-1. It was a tight, tense game. Carlton freely admitted afterword that he was out pitched. Niekro rode his knuckleball (which he used 75-80% of the time [BB, P. 177]) all the way to the Hall of Fame in an endless 24 year career. He won over three hundred games and he and his brother Joe Niekro set the all time record for wins by two brothers (539). On this night, two distinctly different pitching styles met. Carlton went through Atlanta's lineup two batters short of 5 times. Niekro went through the Phillies' more than 5 times. Carlton walked 3 and struck out 10. He has now struck out 252 in 261 1/3 innings. He has received 101 runs of support in 31 starts, (39 of those coming in 5 of the starts).
Phil Niekro's (H) Repertoire: (6'1", 180 lbs, 318-274, 3.59, 16 saves, 1964-1987)
1. Knuckleball; 2. Fastball; 3. Slider (The Sporting News, by Wayne Minshew, September 9, 1972 via ND, P. 325).
"Added pitch almost as baffling as his knuckler last season...It's a floater without a name....Pitch developed in winter instructional league where Niekro went to learn the slip pitch (see Ron Reed's repertoire--Start 16 below) after first losing season in majors (The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1972 edition, edited by Zander Hollander via NJ, P. 325.)
Rob Neyer (NJ, P. 42) rated Niekro's knuckleball as the second best of all time, behind Hoyt Wilhelm (H). In the years when Niekro pitched full seasons, he was 45 games over .500 while the teams he played for were 83 games under .500. He led the league in starts 4 times, complete games 4 times, innings pitched 4 times (all over 300 innings), batters faced 3 times, home runs given up 4 times, strikeouts once, wild pitches 3 times, wins twice, losses 4 times, and ERA once. He pitched in 864 games, 3rd on the all time list among pitchers generally recognized as starters, behind only Jim Kaat (898) and Cy Young (906).
Arm angle: three quarters
Atl 001 000 000 01--2-7-1--(52-66--53-66) 4 W -21.0 g
Phi 000 000 010 00--1-9-1--(43-71--43-72) 6 E -29.5 g
Time: 2:24; Attendance: 41,212 (Retrosheet); 52,162 (Associated Press); Monday night game: 7:35 pm. Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet.org)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--80F, 8:00--76, 9:00--72, 10:00--70
Wind: 7:00--13mph(Out of SSW), 8:00--8(S), 9:00--9(S); 10:00--12(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--43%; 8:00--50, 9:00--55; 10:00--59
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 21 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Reading Eagle: "Curve Ball, Slider End Steve's Streak," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press compendium of National League Games, August 22, P. 48).
How the other half lives:
"No Runs," by Duke DeLuca (Off the Cuff Sports Column, August 22, P. 50).
Ken Reynolds (Wikipedia)(0-11, 4.15 ERA--would finish 2-15--4.26), but had the second most starts for the Phillies--23) represents what life was like for most Phillies pitchers. This column discusses Reynolds' season to date. Reynolds played on one winning team (82-80 1975 Cardinals) in his 6 year career. The teams he played for were 355-448. He was 7-29, 4.46 ERA.
Eagle Headline: "Floor Fight Seen" (at Republican National Convention) (Associated Press, August 22, P. 1, 2)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Alone Again, Naturally, by Gilbert O'Sullivan); #1 Album: Simon and Garfunkel's Greatest Hits
What else is there to say than the best pitcher in the world was beaten by a guy who literally couldn't break a pane of glass with his "out" pitch. Outside of Hoyt Wilhelm, Phil Niekro is generally accepted as the greatest knuckleball pitcher of all time. Tonight, he matched Carlton, inning for inning, pitch for pitch, for 11 innings. Atlanta scored in the third on a two out RBI single by Henry Aaron (H). The Phillies tied the game in the 8th on a RBI single by Greg Luzinski. The Phillies, who left men on base in 8 of the 11 innings and left 7 runners in scoring position, had their best chance to win the game after Luzinski's RBI, but left the bases loaded and were unable to score. In the 11th, Carlton threw what he said was a "curve ball that got me in trouble." Dusty Baker (Wikipedia) smashed the mistake for a double to center field. With two outs Mike Lum hit a broken bat single to center to win the game for Niekro, who left the tying run on second in the bottom of the 11th, after a dropped 3rd strike passed ball and sacrifice had put that run there.
And just like that, the winning streak was over.
Here is a quote from BB that very succinctly sums up the winning streak.
"In winning those 15 straight games he (Carlton) had pitched 135 innings and 14 of the 15 wins were complete games. Five were shutouts. Lefty had given up only 84 hits, 19 runs (17 earned) and three home runs. He struck out 119 and walked 33. His ERA was a sparkling 1.13. He hit one batter, and he did that on purpose (see start 17 below)." (P. 186).
In addition he had a 57 1/3 scoreless earned run streak in which the only run he gave up was due to a passed ball.
When the streak began on June 3 with a no decision that the Phillies lost, their record was 16-28, having lost 18 of their last 19 games. When it ended, their record was 43-72. He won 15 of the 27 games they won in that time. He also had 3 other no decisions. Of his 4 no decisions (his only no decisions all season), the Phillies won 2 and lost 2. So when he didn't pitch during the streak, the Phillies were 10-42 (.192). When he pitched the Phillies were 17-2 (.895).
The 3-4-5 Atlanta hitters, Aaron (H), Baker (presently in his 23rd season as a Manager after an 18 year career as a player), and Earl Williams (the 1971 National League Rookie of the Year) were 3-14 with 1 RBI and 5 strikeouts, including Aaron three times. The heart of the National League order is now 64-331 (.193) with with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 28 RBI. Carlton's ERA fell from 2.12 to 2.10.
Newspaper story quotes
From the Eagle and BB
Steve Carlton, talking about the pitch that Dusty Baker hit for a double in the eleventh inning.
"...a helluva pitch. He just reached out, hit it, and broke his bat. It was a slider low and away."
Steve Carlton, on the pitch that Mike Lum hit to drive in the winning run.
"I'd like to break 200 bats like that."
Mike Lum
"At the time I wasn't. But after thinking about it I kind of feel sorry for him."
Mike Lum,when asked if he felt bad about breaking Carlton's 15 game winning streak.
"Sometimes you just get bested..."You ought to talk to Phil Niekro. He's the guy who did a helluva job. A super job."
Steve Carlton
"I thought it was the best knuckleball I've had all season. I must have thrown it 95% of the time. The last two or three innings I had a better knuckler than I've had the whole year."
Phil Niekro, Philadelphia Inquirer, quoted in BB, P. 185.
"I really hadn't thought that much about the winning streak. I wish it had continued. It's a shame. I really wish I could have won it for the fans, the record, and the streak."
Steve Carlton
"There were 52,162 fans on hand and they cheered as if their Phillies were in the seventh game of the World Series, rather than the team with the worst record in the majors."
Bruce Lowitt. Associated Press sports writer.
"I guess I'll just have to start another streak, right? It was a good one."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Atlanta
1. R. Garr L,9,7...(1)1b(8)..(3)Kc...(5)f(5)*...(7)g(6-3).(10)gDP(1-6-3)
2. F. Millan R,4...(1)f(7)...(3)2b(8)..(5)2b(7)..(8)f(3)*..(11)f(3)
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3.(1)K......(3)1b(8)..(5)K......(8)g(6-3).(11)K
4. D. Baker R,8....(1)Kc.....(3)2b(7)..(5)g(5-3).(8)f(5)*..(11)2b(8)
5. E. Williams R,2.(2)g(5-3).(3)K......(6)f(7)...(9)f(L6)..(11)IW
6. R. Carty R,7....(2)W......(4)g(4-3).(6)f(9)...
6. M. Lum L,9....................................(9)Kc.....(11)1b(8)
7. D. Evans L,5....(2)Kc.....(4)W$.....(6)g(5-3).(9)f(8)...(11)g(3)
8. M. Perez R,6....(2)g(3)...(4)f(4)...(7)f(3)...(10)E(4)
8. S. Jackson L,PR...............................(10)PR
8. G. Garrido R,6
9. P. Niekro R,1...(3)K......(4)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3).(10)K(sb)
$=Evans stole second with Perez batting
*=Foul ball
For Carlton
Cumulative through 31 starts: 261 1/3 innings, 784 outs, 22 complete games, 1st loss after 15 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 252K, 239g, 256f(171 outfield, 85 infield), 4 unknown; 233 Pulled, 118 Up the middle, 148 Opposite field (1 appeal, 17 double plays, 9 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 67 walks (6 intentional); 183 hits (135 1b, 32 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 12 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 65 runs (61 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 183-877 (.209) +67 walks (6 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 43 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (43*3.3) + (10*1.5) + (3*2.2)=163
Atlanta was 7-40
Outs: 33 (7 right handed batters, 3 left handed batters)
Outs: 10K; 11g; 11f(7 infield, 4 outfield); 9 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 11 Opposite field; 1 double play
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 31: 5-29
Outs: 7K, 7g, 9f (6 infield, 3 outfield); 8 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 8 opposite field
On Base: 2 Walks (1 intentional), 5 hits (5 outfield) (1 1b, 4 2b); 2 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 error
Atlanta left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 12: 2-11; 1 error, 1 double play
Outs: 3K, 4g. 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 2 hits (2 outfield) (2 1b) 0 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle; 0 Opposite field
Start 30-"Hey Super Steve, Take 20 Bows" (Game story headline, Philadelphia Daily News, August 18, via BB, P. 176.)
August 17 Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 9 Cin 4; Carlton 20-6 (2.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ross Grimsley (L) (Wikipedia) 10-6 (2.59) Grimsley in action (Game 2, 1972 World Series)
A huge crowd of over 42,000 or 53,500 (depending on the source) came out on a Thursday night to see Carlton's 20th win, 15th consecutive win, and 21st complete game. The Phillies provided him more than ample run support after he blew an early lead, backing him with 16 hits (5 extra base hits--including 2 home runs), as they routed the eventual National League Champion Reds. The Reds have hit him as well as anyone this season, with 7 earned runs in 2 match ups. He walked 4 and struck out 2, as well as giving up 7 hits, including 3 extra base hits. But the 9 runs (tied for 2nd highest output of any of his starts so far), were more than enough. He crossed the 250 inning mark in this, his 30th start. It is interesting to compare this to a modern starting rotation pitcher's workload, which is usually 30-34 starts in an entire season. The last MLB pitcher to throw 250 innings was Justin Verlander (Wikipedia) of the Tigers in 2011 (251 in 34 starts). The last National League pitcher to do it was Roy Halliday (Wikipedia) of the Phillies in 2010 (250.2 in 33 starts). In 250 1/3 innings, Carlton has struck out 242. He has received 100 runs of support in 30 starts (including 39 in 5 of those starts).
Ross Grimsely's Repertoire: (6'3", 195 lbs, 124-99, 3.81, 3 saves, 1971-1982)
1. Changeup; 2. Curve; 3. Slow Curve; 4. Slider; 5. Screwball; 6. Fastball (Sporting News, 1978, Ian McDonald; 1979 Baseball Factbook, article on Grimsley by K.D. Thornton, both via NJ, P. 224)
"Grimsley was a master at varying the speeds on all his pitches." (NJ P. 224).
In the seasons that Grimsely had 15 or more decisions, he had a losing record only once. He had a terrific year in 1972, 14-8, 3.05 ERA after a May call up. In the crucial 4th game of the 1972 National League Championship Series, with the Reds down 2-1 (in a 5 game series) he pitched a 2 hit complete game win to keep the Reds alive. In the World Series, he pitched in 4 games (1 as a starter), going 2-1 with a 2.57 ERA. He was used as a setup man in Game 5 (another elimination game) that the Reds won 5-4. In Game 6 (another elimination game) he stopped an Oakland rally when the game was still close, before the Reds blew it open. In the 7th game, he pitched the 7th inning after the A's had taken a 3-1 lead in the 6th. He kept the score right where it was, as the Reds lost the game 3-2 and series 4-3. In the video above, Grimsley is early in his career and throws more fastballs than his repertoire would indicate.
Arm angle: three quarters.
Cin 003 000 010--4--7-1--(68-42--68-43) 1 W +5.5 g
Phi 020 032 20x--9-16-1--(41-69--42-69) 6 E -27.0 g
Time: 2:04; Attendance: 42,635 (Retrosheet.org and the New York Times) 53,376 (Associated Press); Thursday night game: 7:35 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donnatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F, 8:00--70, 9:00--69
Wind: 7:00--6mph(Out of SSE), 8:00--6(SSE), 9:00--8(S); Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--71%; 8:00--71%, 9:00--70%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 17 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Reading Eagle: "20th Win Goes to Mrs. Steve Carlton: Phils Rip Reds For 16 Hits," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press Compendium of National League games) (August 18, P. 18 , P. 22).
Beaver County Times: "They Cheered--In Philadephia: 53,377 Call Carlton Back For a Bow," (United Press International Compendium of National League games) (Augusts 18, P. B1).
Eagle Headline: "(Top State Officials) Pay Hike Okayed: Phantom Solon (legislator) Helps" (Associated Press, August 18, P. 1)
Times Headline: "(State) Assembly Okays Hike, Rips Media" (United Press International, August 18, P. 1). Note: there is no direct link to headline. Simply magnify the page to read the story.
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Alone Again, Naturally, by Gilbert O'Sullivan); #1 Album: Honky Chateau, by Elton John)
The Phillies put on their 1927 Yankees caps and made absolutely sure Carlton would win his 20th game of the season (15th in a row--just 4 behind the all time season record of 19 set by Rube Marquard of the New York Giants in 1912) with his 21st complete game. They supplied 16 hits and scored multiple runs in four different innings. They picked him up after he lost a two run lead. With the exception of 3rd Baseman Don Money (Wikipedia) and Carlton, every starter contributed a multi-hit game. They socked 2 doubles, a triple, and 2 home runs.
A crowd of over 42,000 or 53,000 (depending on the source) showed up on a Thursday night to cheer their hero on. He was not at his best but soldiered on for the complete game. He went through the Reds lineup 4 times, something he has now done in 3 other starts as well. Overall, including those 4 starts, he has gone through an opposing lineup at least 3 times in 28 of his 30 starts. One of the statistical markers used in the modern game is batting average against the 3rd time through the lineup. Because of that, because pitchers are brought up in an environment of "hard as you can as long as you can", because of specialty relievers brought in beginning sometimes as early as the 6th inning, and many times as early as the 7th, not many of today's pitchers ever make it through a lineup 3 times. Since it is not a part of the modern game, Carlton's incredible durability is not as appreciated as it should be by modern fans, in my opinion. Today 200 innings is a sign of a useful starting pitcher (and the fact that there are 5 man rotations today simply allows substandard pitchers into a rotation--while at the same time not particularly cutting down on pitchers' injuries). It can be said with some confidence that most of today's starters will not accumulate the number of complete games in a career that Carlton did in 1972. End of rant. Except to say that pitching always was the name of the game and still is. If pitchers were trained differently, they might be able to respond differently.
An interesting feature of this game was that it was a birthday present from Carlton to his wife Beverly. Five starts earlier (see Start 25 below), after his 15th win (10th in a row), she knew that he would be pitching this game for his 20th victory (15th in a row) and it is what she asked for as a birthday present. When this game ended he was roared out for an encore by over 42,00 or 50,000 (depending on the source) of the most critical sports fans in the country. Would he achieve 20 consecutive wins? Could he reach 30 wins? These were questions in the back of his mind. Enough starts were left for both markers to be reached. Only time would tell.
The Reds' 3-4-5 hitters, Bobby Tolan (Wikipedia), Johnny Bench (H), and Denis Menke were 1-10 with 1 RBI and 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 61-317 (.192) with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 27 RBI. Carlton's ERA grew from 2.05 to 2.12.
And one final note about how baseball was played in 1972. This game, which had 13 runs, 23 hits (including 8 extra base hits), 7 walks & 5 strikeouts, and 5 "crooked" numbers put on the scoreboard, lasted 2 hours and 4 minutes. It was Carlton's first start in his last 6 that lasted more than 2 hours.
Newspaper story quotes:
From the Reading Eagle:
"I was very happy I could give it to her."
Steve Carlton, on presenting his wife his 20th victory as a
birthday present.
"That's my birtday and that's what I want. You're 20th victory."
Beverly Carlton, about 3 weeks before her birthday, on the
occasion of Carlton's 15th win and 10th win in a row. (July
28--see start 25 below).
"I haven't beaten them since 1967. You have to stay on top of that lineup...You never can relax."
Steve Carlton, discussing the soon to be National League Champion
Cincinnati Reds.
"I want to thank my teammates for their super support. They scored runs, got the big hits, and played great defense."
Steve Carlton
"We want Steve! We want Steve!"
Chant by the crowd of over 42,000 or 53,000 (depending on the source). Carlton came out for an encore, which can be seen in the photos accompanying the game stories.
"It felt great. I want to thank the fans. It was touching. Nothing like it ever happened to me before."
Steve Carlton
"I can't say I can shut 30 games out of my mind. But my goal is 25."
Steve Carlton
From the Beaver County Times:
"It's got to make you cry. To be called back like that. I've never seen anything like it.
Paul Owens, Phillies Manager/General Manager on the crowd response after the last out.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7......(1)g(6-3)..(3)1b(8)$...(5)g(1-3).(7)g(6-3).(9)g(6-3)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4.(1)g(1-3)..(3)2b(8)#...(5)W......(8)f(6)
3. B. Tolan L,8.....(1)g(4-3)..(3)g(5-2)&$.(5)g(3)...(8)W$
4. J. Bench(H) R,3..(2)f(5)*...(3)Kc.......(6)W......(8)1b(7)
5. D. Menke R,5.....(2)f(2)*...(4)f(7).....(6)f(8)...(8)f(8)
6. G. Foster R,9....(2)K.......(4)g(5-3)...(6)f(8)...(8)f(4)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(3)1b(6)..(4)W@.......(6)f(9)...(9)2b(7)
8. B. Plummer R,2...(3)2b(9)...(5)1b(4)....(7)f(8)...(9)f(9)
9. R. Grimsley L,1..(3)sb(1-4).(5)sb(2-4)
9. E. Sprague R,1
9. J. Javier R,PH..........................(7)f(9)
9. C. Carroll R,P
9. H. McRae R, PH....................................(9)f(7)
*=foul ball
$3=Rose stole second while Morgan was at bat
#=Morgan went to third on Montanez' throw home.
&=Tolan reached first on the fielder's choice from Money (5) to Bateman (2).
$3=Tolan stole second while Bench was at bat.
@=Concepcion was picked off and out caught stealing Carlton (1)-Johnson (3)-Harmon(4)-Johnson(1)
$8=Tolan stole second while Bench was at bat
For Carlton
Cumulative through 30 starts: 250 1/3 innings, 751 outs, 21 complete games, 15 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 242K, 228g, 245f(167 outfield, 78 infield), 4 unknown; 224 Pulled, 116 Up the middle; 137 Opposite field (1 appeal, 16 double plays, 9 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 64 walks (5 intentional); 176 hits (130 1b, 30 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR), 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 63 runs (59 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 176-837 (.210) + 64 walks (5 intentional)
WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 4 Walks, 7 hits, (2 infield, 5 outfield) (4 1b, 3 2b); 3 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
---
Reds right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 27: 6-25
Outs: 2K, 5g, 12f (3 infield, 9 outfield); 7 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 4 opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 2 Walks, 6 hits(2 infield, 4 outfield) (4 1b, 2 2b); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 stolen base
Reds left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 10: 1-6; 2 sacrifice bunts
Outs: 0K, 6g. 1f(1 infield); 2 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
On Base: 2 Walks, 1 hit (1 outfield) 1 Up the Middle; 2 stolen bases
+++
Start 29
August 13 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 2 Mon 1; Carlton 19-6 (2.05) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ernie McAnally (Wikipedia) (R) 1-13 (4.56).
This was Carlton's 20th complete game, 19th win, and 14th consecutive win. His consecutive earned run innings scoreless streak was stopped at 57 1/3. In that time, his actual scoreless innings streak was stopped after 30 1/3 innings by an unearned run scored with one out after a passed ball moved a runner to second, where he scored on a single. That was followed by two outs that would not have advanced him home (see Start 26 below). 1 unearned run in 57 1/3 innings. The two longest scoreless streaks in modern MLB history belong to Orel Hersheiser of the Dodgers in 1988 (59) and Don Drysdale of the Dodgers in 1968 (58). The Elias Sports Bureau (Wikipedia)--official statistical agency for MLB--no longer gives official credit for partial innings pitched before a scoreless streak is stopped. Carlton had a 30 inning streak, followed by a 27 inning streak. Without the passed ball, the streak would have been the 3rd longest in MLB history, moving ahead of Walter Johnson's 55 2/3 inning streak in 1913 (MLB) (Johnson was 36-7 that year for a 2nd place team--2 years earlier he was 25-13 on a Washington Senators team that was 64-90--7th of 8 in the American League). Once again the Phillies entire offensive output came in one inning (1st). Carlton protected that lead for 8 innings. He walked 3 and struck out 8. He has now struck out 240 in 241 1/3 innings. He gave up his first outside the park home run in 60 innings. He has received 91 runs of support in 29 starts (30 of those came in 4 of the starts). He is now 5 consecutive wins away from the Giants' Rube Marquard's MLB single season record of 19 in 1912 (the same year both Walter Johnson and Smoky Joe Wood won 16 in a row to set the American League record. Indeed Johnson, who had set his record earlier in the season, would get a chance to "defend" it against the Red Sox' Wood, who came into their match up on September 12 with 13 consecutive wins of his own. The story of that classic duel is available at the SABR Research Journals Archive.)
Ernie McAnally (6'1", 190 lbs, 30-49, 4.03, 1971-1974)
I have been unable to find out anything about McAnally's repertoire or arm angle. His best year, according to the Wikipedia biography, was 1971, when he started the year 1-7 and finished with an 11-12 record. This was his 2nd start against Carlton this season. In 11 innings (he was ejected after 4 innings in his first start [bean ball war--see Start 17 below]) he has allowed the Phillies 3 runs. He has 2 losses to show for it.
Mon 000 100 000--1-3-1--(49-57--49-58)--5 E -18.5 g
Phi 200 000 000--2-5-0--(40-67--41-67)--6 E -27.0 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 30,207; Sunday Day Game: 1:05 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972)
"THE Play at the plate" (video: Game 1, 1970 World Series) Burkhart was centrally involved in one of the great "rhubarbs" in the history of the World Series. Watch and you make the call!
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 1:00pm--79F, 2:00--79, 3:00--83
Wind: 1:00--5mph(Out of ENE), 2:00--5(S), 3:00--7(SE); Blowing in, out, out
Humidity: 1:00--69%; 2:00--59%, 3:00--58%
1:00--Cloudy; 2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 13 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
August 9 at Pittsburgh Three Rivers Stadium: Phi 2 Pit 0; Carlton 18-6 (2.09) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Steve Blass (R) 12-6 (2.61) Steve Blass in action (Game 7, 1971 World Series)
Carlton has pitched better games statistically (see Starts 2 and 3 below), but given the opposition, this was his best game of the year so far. It was his 13th consecutive win (including 4 no decisions), 19th complete game, 7th shutout, and the 5th consecutive start in which he has allowed 5 or less hits. His new scoreless inning streak extended to 23 2/3 innings. His scoreless earned run streak extended to 54 innings. He has given up 1 unearned run in the last 54 innings. He completely throttled the 2nd best offense (by runs scored) in the National League, walking 1 and striking out 12. He now has 232 strikeouts in 232 1/3 innings. He has received 89 runs of support in 28 starts (30 of those runs came in 4 of the starts).
Steve Blass' Repertoire: (6'0", 165 lbs, 103-76, 3.63, 2 saves, 1964-1974)
1. Slider; 2. Fastball; 3. Big Slow Curve; 4. Sinking Fastball; 5. Curve (Five Seasons, by Roger Angell, 1977; Major League Baseball, 1969, by Jack Zanger) via NJ, P. 136.
"In 1973, Blass developed an inexplicable inability to throw strikes, from which he never recovered." (NJ, P. 136).
"Good but not overpowering stuff, excellent slider, good curve, good changeup curve. A pattern pitcher, whose slider works because of its location, no control problems. Intelligent, knows how to win." (New Yorker, Roger Angell, via SABR biography linked to above.
Orioles Manager Earl Weaver (H) tried to rattle Blass in the 1st inning of the 7th Game of the 1971 World Series by complaining to the umpires about Blass going to his mouth, Blass not completely stopping in his stretch position, Blass not being in contact with the rubber when he pitched. Weaver stopped the game twice with this stuff. All it did was concentrate Blass' attention. He pitched a 4 hitter (2-1) to win the Series. In that series he was 2-0, giving up 7 hits and 2 runs (1.00 era) with 4 walks and 13 strikeouts. It was the best performance by a Pirates pitcher in a World Series since Babe Adams won 3 complete games (including the 7th game) of the 1909 World Series, compiling an ERA of 1.33 ((Sports Encyclopedia Baseball, by David S. Neft, Richard M. Cohen, and Michael L. Neft, 1999 edition, P. 403 [Blass], P. 47 [Adams]).
Blass had his career year in 1972. He finished 19-8, 2.49. Then...
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 011 000 000--2-8-0--(39-64--40-64) 6 E -25.0 g
Pit 000 000 000--0-3-1--(65-38--65-39) 1 E +8.5 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 19,832; Wednesday Night Game: 8:05 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Lee Weyer (retrosheet.org) (2 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--60F, 9:00--59 10:00--57
Wind: 8:00--14mph(Out of WNW), 9:00--9(WNW), 10:00--8(WNW); Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--72%; 9:00--75; 10:00--81
8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 9 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
Pittsburgh Press: "Make No Mistake: Carlton Is Super," by Bob Smizik (August 10, P. 34).
Reading Eagle: "Amazing Carlton Forks Up Shutout" by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press, August 10, P. 54) Note: Unfortunately, the game story is not linked in this issue. Simply type "54" into the page box. Story is in Column 6 below the photo of Carlton in action.
Press Headline: "Equal Tax Base Urged In State: (Pennsylvania) House (of Representatives): Group Suggests Sweeping Law Changes," by John Taylor (August, 10, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: Still Deadlocked: No Progress at Paris" (Peace Talks between the US and Vietnamese). (United Press International, August 10, P. 1)
"He was overpowering!"
"Amazing!"
"A hell of a pitcher!"
"He's a machine!"
"I can't believe it!"
Various unattributed comments after the game.
"I just can't believe anyone can pitch better than he has. And he's a competitor. You give him a run or two early, and he really gets tough."
Paul Owens, (Wikipedia) Phillies Manager
"He (Blass) threw me one of those big changes he's got, and I managed to regain my balance and hit it. I knew it was gone when I hit it."
Steve Carlton, reflecting on his 3rd inning "insurance" run home run to right field, his first home run of the season (4th of his career).
"Very pleasing. I've had success back and forth against them. Sometimes I've pitched well and other times they came out on top. It's an accomplishment to hold them to a few hits like that."
Steve Carlton
Quotes from the Press.
"If you're talking about velocity, we've faced guys as fast, but not one with a breaking ball like Carlton's. I'd have to say he's the best pitcher we've faced."
Willie Stargell
It wasn't a slow curve and it wasn't a hard curve. It was in between. The most frustrating thing was giving up the home run to the pitcher."
Steve Blass on Carlton's home run.
"I guess it was my most satisfying win. They are a tough team to shut out. The ninth inning was typical of them."
Steve Carlton
"He (Roberto Clemente [H], Pirates pinch hitter [playing in only his 2nd game of the last 16]) fouled off a lot of good pitches. That's the type of hitter he is. He'll foul off what he doesn't like until he gets something he wants" (Clemente led off the ninth with a walk.). Interestingly, Carlton threw 27 pitches in the 9th...to four batters. One of those batters bunted on the 2nd pitch. Which means, most likely, that the Carlton v Clemente match up was one for the ages.
Steve Carlton
Leadoff man Gene Clines (Wikipedia) then singled. Rennie Stennett (who owns the MLB modern record for hits in a 9 inning game with 7 [SABR game story]) then attempted a sacrifice. "Stennett hit the ball in the air to Carlton's right.". Here Carlton picks up the narrative:
"I just reached it at the last moment. I had to regain my balance after the pitch and just got it in time (on the fly)." Carlton then doubled pinch runner Dock Ellis off 2nd.
"That had to be the turning point of the game. They had their big hitters coming up. They can score three runs before you can get somebody warmed up."
"I like the cold weather. I was extremely happy when I heard the weather report."
Steve Carlton
"He's like a machine. I marvel at him. He was quicker tonight in the first seven innings than I've seen him in some time."
Paul Owens, (Wikipedia) Phillies Manager
["Carlton picked up all 12 of his strikeouts in the first 6 innings. But if he was slower in the last 3 innings, (Pirates Manager Bill) Virdon could barely notice it."] (Pittsburgh Press--Smitzik)
"I'd say he was off just a hair of what he had been doing."
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order; Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7......(1)g(6-3)..(3)1b(8)$...(5)g(1-3).(7)g(6-3).(9)g(6-3)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4.(1)g(1-3)..(3)2b(8)#...(5)W......(8)f(6)
3. B. Tolan L,8.....(1)g(4-3)..(3)g(5-2)&$.(5)g(3)...(8)W$
4. J. Bench(H) R,3..(2)f(5)*...(3)Kc.......(6)W......(8)1b(7)
5. D. Menke R,5.....(2)f(2)*...(4)f(7).....(6)f(8)...(8)f(8)
6. G. Foster R,9....(2)K.......(4)g(5-3)...(6)f(8)...(8)f(4)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(3)1b(6)..(4)W@.......(6)f(9)...(9)2b(7)
8. B. Plummer R,2...(3)2b(9)...(5)1b(4)....(7)f(8)...(9)f(9)
9. R. Grimsley L,1..(3)sb(1-4).(5)sb(2-4)
9. E. Sprague R,1
9. J. Javier R,PH..........................(7)f(9)
9. C. Carroll R,P
9. H. McRae R, PH....................................(9)f(7)
*=foul ball
$3=Rose stole second while Morgan was at bat
#=Morgan went to third on Montanez' throw home.
&=Tolan reached first on the fielder's choice from Money (5) to Bateman (2).
$3=Tolan stole second while Bench was at bat.
@=Concepcion was picked off and out caught stealing Carlton (1)-Johnson (3)-Harmon(4)-Johnson(1)
$8=Tolan stole second while Bench was at bat
For Carlton
Cumulative through 30 starts: 250 1/3 innings, 751 outs, 21 complete games, 15 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 242K, 228g, 245f(167 outfield, 78 infield), 4 unknown; 224 Pulled, 116 Up the middle; 137 Opposite field (1 appeal, 16 double plays, 9 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 64 walks (5 intentional); 176 hits (130 1b, 30 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR), 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 63 runs (59 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 37 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (37*3.3) + (2*1.5) + (4*2.2)=134
Reds were 7-31
Outs: 27 (8 right handed hitters, 3 left handed hitters)
Outs: 2K; 11g; 13f(4 infield, 9 outfield); 9 pulled, 9 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
---
Reds right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 27: 6-25
Outs: 2K, 5g, 12f (3 infield, 9 outfield); 7 Pulled, 6 Up the middle, 4 opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 2 Walks, 6 hits(2 infield, 4 outfield) (4 1b, 2 2b); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 stolen base
Reds left handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 10: 1-6; 2 sacrifice bunts
Outs: 0K, 6g. 1f(1 infield); 2 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
On Base: 2 Walks, 1 hit (1 outfield) 1 Up the Middle; 2 stolen bases
Start 29
August 13 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 2 Mon 1; Carlton 19-6 (2.05) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ernie McAnally (Wikipedia) (R) 1-13 (4.56).
This was Carlton's 20th complete game, 19th win, and 14th consecutive win. His consecutive earned run innings scoreless streak was stopped at 57 1/3. In that time, his actual scoreless innings streak was stopped after 30 1/3 innings by an unearned run scored with one out after a passed ball moved a runner to second, where he scored on a single. That was followed by two outs that would not have advanced him home (see Start 26 below). 1 unearned run in 57 1/3 innings. The two longest scoreless streaks in modern MLB history belong to Orel Hersheiser of the Dodgers in 1988 (59) and Don Drysdale of the Dodgers in 1968 (58). The Elias Sports Bureau (Wikipedia)--official statistical agency for MLB--no longer gives official credit for partial innings pitched before a scoreless streak is stopped. Carlton had a 30 inning streak, followed by a 27 inning streak. Without the passed ball, the streak would have been the 3rd longest in MLB history, moving ahead of Walter Johnson's 55 2/3 inning streak in 1913 (MLB) (Johnson was 36-7 that year for a 2nd place team--2 years earlier he was 25-13 on a Washington Senators team that was 64-90--7th of 8 in the American League). Once again the Phillies entire offensive output came in one inning (1st). Carlton protected that lead for 8 innings. He walked 3 and struck out 8. He has now struck out 240 in 241 1/3 innings. He gave up his first outside the park home run in 60 innings. He has received 91 runs of support in 29 starts (30 of those came in 4 of the starts). He is now 5 consecutive wins away from the Giants' Rube Marquard's MLB single season record of 19 in 1912 (the same year both Walter Johnson and Smoky Joe Wood won 16 in a row to set the American League record. Indeed Johnson, who had set his record earlier in the season, would get a chance to "defend" it against the Red Sox' Wood, who came into their match up on September 12 with 13 consecutive wins of his own. The story of that classic duel is available at the SABR Research Journals Archive.)
Ernie McAnally (6'1", 190 lbs, 30-49, 4.03, 1971-1974)
I have been unable to find out anything about McAnally's repertoire or arm angle. His best year, according to the Wikipedia biography, was 1971, when he started the year 1-7 and finished with an 11-12 record. This was his 2nd start against Carlton this season. In 11 innings (he was ejected after 4 innings in his first start [bean ball war--see Start 17 below]) he has allowed the Phillies 3 runs. He has 2 losses to show for it.
Mon 000 100 000--1-3-1--(49-57--49-58)--5 E -18.5 g
Phi 200 000 000--2-5-0--(40-67--41-67)--6 E -27.0 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 30,207; Sunday Day Game: 1:05 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972)
"THE Play at the plate" (video: Game 1, 1970 World Series) Burkhart was centrally involved in one of the great "rhubarbs" in the history of the World Series. Watch and you make the call!
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 1:00pm--79F, 2:00--79, 3:00--83
Wind: 1:00--5mph(Out of ENE), 2:00--5(S), 3:00--7(SE); Blowing in, out, out
Humidity: 1:00--69%; 2:00--59%, 3:00--58%
1:00--Cloudy; 2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 13 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Montreal Gazette: "Expos split twin showbill in Philly," by Ian MacDonald (August 14, P. 15).
Reading Eagle: "Carlton Rolls On, So Do the Pirates," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press Compendium of National League games, August 14, P. 16).
Gazette Headline: "U.S. reiterates 'give us trade concessions': Hard-line continues," by David Tafler (August 14, P. 1).
Eagle Headline: (Pennsylvania Governor Milton J.) Shapp Seeks $100 Million (for flood relief)" (United Press International, August 14, P. 1)
For a Sunday doubleheader in the middle of August between two tail enders, there were quite a few story lines in this one. The big story was what happened between games of the doubleheader. In a move that was reminiscent of Bill Veeck, the Phillies hired a wire walker. Not just any wire walker. Karl Wallenda. (fuzzymemories.tv via Daily Motion) Wallenda not only walked the wire 140 feet above the ground, but also stopped in the middle of the walk to do a headstand. The story (along with the story of Carlton's win) can be found in a SABR research article.
Before those fireworks, Carlton set off some of his own. In addition to the amazing numbers stated above think about this. For the 26th time in 29 starts, he faced the entire opposing starting lineup 3 times. In 3 of those starts, he has faced the entire opposing starting lineup 4 times. His 8 strikeouts gave him the all time Phillies record for strikeouts in a season by a left hander, besting Chris Short's record of 237 in 1965.
The Phillies, as is becoming their trade mark, threw down the gauntlet with their entire offensive output in one inning. This time the explosion came in the first inning, when, with 2 outs and a man on 1st, Willie Montanez hit a run scoring double and was then batted in by a single by Greg Luzinski. The Phillies got 4 of their 5 hits for the game in this inning. Carlton knew, as early as possible, what he was going to have to defend.
He retired 10 of the first 11 batters and then got too much of the plate with a fastball. Bob Bailey didn't miss. The scoreless innings streaks lay in ruins. Carlton (see below) has said over and again that he cares not about streaks or records. He shook off the brush with immortality and went back to work. He gave up a single in the 6th and 9th. Nothing more. 3 hits. The Expos did not have 2 runners on base at any time. The game took 1 hour and 48 minutes, the fifth consecutive start he has completed in less than 1 hour and 50 minutes. The start before that was finished in 2 hours.
The 3-4-5 batters in the Expos order, Bob Bailey, Hal Breeden (Wikipedia), and Ken Singleton (Wikipedia) (who would later play on the Baltimore Orioles 1983 World Championship team) were 1-10 with a home run, an RBI, and 3 strikeouts. The Heart of the National League order is now 60-307 (.195) with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 26 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.07 to 2.05.
Article story quotes:
From the Montreal Gazette
"struggling"
Steve Carlton, discussing his day
"...perspiration was getting in my eyes in the late innings. There were a couple of pitches late in the game when I couldn't even see the ball".
Steve Carlton
He's the greatest pitcher I've ever caught...I sit back there catching him and I wonder how anyone gets a hit off him. And the big thing about him is that nothing bothers him. If someone boots a ball behind him, he just pulls his belt up higher and gets the next man.
John Bateman, Phillies catcher.
It was a full count. I wanted to throw a fastball on the outside. The ball was in a little. It was just where Beetle's (Bob Bailey) likes it.
Steve Carlton on the pitch that Bob Bailey hit for a home run, the first earned run off Carlton in 57 1/3 innings.
"Carlton says that he is not concerned about records at all as he zooms closer to the all-time mark of 19 consecutive wins, and that all he wants is to 'win games'. His 19 wins are close to half of the Phillies' 41 total."
Ian MacDonald, sports reporter for the Gazette, summing things up.
From the Reading Eagle
"I didn't have good stuff and I couldn't get the slider over. I was lucky to get away with it."
Steve Carlton
"I'm not thinking about records or strikeouts. I want the win. Those other things will take care of themselves."
Steve Carlton
"The ovation was beautiful. It's nice to be appreciated."
Steve Carlton, after the "long and loud" standing ovation he received upon getting the last out.
In other baseball news, George Weiss (H), the General Manager of the New York Yankees from 1948-1960, under whose tutelage the team won 10 pennants and 7 World Championships, passed away today. He was also the General Manager of the New York Mets from 1961-1966, helping to lay the administrative ground work for their 1969 World Championship.
Montreal Gazette: "Expos split twin showbill in Philly," by Ian MacDonald (August 14, P. 15).
Reading Eagle: "Carlton Rolls On, So Do the Pirates," by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press Compendium of National League games, August 14, P. 16).
Gazette Headline: "U.S. reiterates 'give us trade concessions': Hard-line continues," by David Tafler (August 14, P. 1).
Eagle Headline: (Pennsylvania Governor Milton J.) Shapp Seeks $100 Million (for flood relief)" (United Press International, August 14, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Alone Again, Naturally, by Gilbert O'Sullivan); #1 Album: Honky Chateau, by Elton John)
For a Sunday doubleheader in the middle of August between two tail enders, there were quite a few story lines in this one. The big story was what happened between games of the doubleheader. In a move that was reminiscent of Bill Veeck, the Phillies hired a wire walker. Not just any wire walker. Karl Wallenda. (fuzzymemories.tv via Daily Motion) Wallenda not only walked the wire 140 feet above the ground, but also stopped in the middle of the walk to do a headstand. The story (along with the story of Carlton's win) can be found in a SABR research article.
Before those fireworks, Carlton set off some of his own. In addition to the amazing numbers stated above think about this. For the 26th time in 29 starts, he faced the entire opposing starting lineup 3 times. In 3 of those starts, he has faced the entire opposing starting lineup 4 times. His 8 strikeouts gave him the all time Phillies record for strikeouts in a season by a left hander, besting Chris Short's record of 237 in 1965.
The Phillies, as is becoming their trade mark, threw down the gauntlet with their entire offensive output in one inning. This time the explosion came in the first inning, when, with 2 outs and a man on 1st, Willie Montanez hit a run scoring double and was then batted in by a single by Greg Luzinski. The Phillies got 4 of their 5 hits for the game in this inning. Carlton knew, as early as possible, what he was going to have to defend.
He retired 10 of the first 11 batters and then got too much of the plate with a fastball. Bob Bailey didn't miss. The scoreless innings streaks lay in ruins. Carlton (see below) has said over and again that he cares not about streaks or records. He shook off the brush with immortality and went back to work. He gave up a single in the 6th and 9th. Nothing more. 3 hits. The Expos did not have 2 runners on base at any time. The game took 1 hour and 48 minutes, the fifth consecutive start he has completed in less than 1 hour and 50 minutes. The start before that was finished in 2 hours.
The 3-4-5 batters in the Expos order, Bob Bailey, Hal Breeden (Wikipedia), and Ken Singleton (Wikipedia) (who would later play on the Baltimore Orioles 1983 World Championship team) were 1-10 with a home run, an RBI, and 3 strikeouts. The Heart of the National League order is now 60-307 (.195) with 8 home runs (6 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park home run) and 26 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.07 to 2.05.
Article story quotes:
From the Montreal Gazette
"struggling"
Steve Carlton, discussing his day
"...perspiration was getting in my eyes in the late innings. There were a couple of pitches late in the game when I couldn't even see the ball".
Steve Carlton
He's the greatest pitcher I've ever caught...I sit back there catching him and I wonder how anyone gets a hit off him. And the big thing about him is that nothing bothers him. If someone boots a ball behind him, he just pulls his belt up higher and gets the next man.
John Bateman, Phillies catcher.
It was a full count. I wanted to throw a fastball on the outside. The ball was in a little. It was just where Beetle's (Bob Bailey) likes it.
Steve Carlton on the pitch that Bob Bailey hit for a home run, the first earned run off Carlton in 57 1/3 innings.
"Carlton says that he is not concerned about records at all as he zooms closer to the all-time mark of 19 consecutive wins, and that all he wants is to 'win games'. His 19 wins are close to half of the Phillies' 41 total."
Ian MacDonald, sports reporter for the Gazette, summing things up.
From the Reading Eagle
"I didn't have good stuff and I couldn't get the slider over. I was lucky to get away with it."
Steve Carlton
"I'm not thinking about records or strikeouts. I want the win. Those other things will take care of themselves."
Steve Carlton
"The ovation was beautiful. It's nice to be appreciated."
Steve Carlton, after the "long and loud" standing ovation he received upon getting the last out.
In other baseball news, George Weiss (H), the General Manager of the New York Yankees from 1948-1960, under whose tutelage the team won 10 pennants and 7 World Championships, passed away today. He was also the General Manager of the New York Mets from 1961-1966, helping to lay the administrative ground work for their 1969 World Championship.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Expos batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Expos
1. R. Hunt R,4.......(1)f(7)...(3)f(8)...(6)1b(4).....(8)f(8)
2. C. Mashore R,9....(1)K......(4)f(9)...(6)f(8)......(9)K
3. B. Bailey R,5.....(1)W......(4)HR(7)..(6)gDP(5-4-3)(9)K
4. H. Breeden R,3....(1)K......(4)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3)...(9)1b(8)
4. M. Jorgensen L,PR)..................................(9)PR
5. K. Singleton B,7..(2)g(5-3).(4)K......(7)W.........(9)g(3)
6. R. Woods R,8......(2)f(7)...(5)K......(7)g(4-6)
7. T. Foli R,6.......(2)g(5-3).(5)K......(7)f(9)
8. J. Boccabella R,2.(3)g(1-3).(5)W......(8)g(6-3)
9. E. MacAnally R,1..(3)f(9)...(5)K
9. H. Torres R,PH........................(8)g(6-3)
9. M. Marshall R,1
For Carlton
Cumulative through 29 starts: 241 1/3 innings, 724 outs, 20 complete games, 7 shutouts, 14 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 240K, 217g, 232f (158 outfield, 74 infield), 4 unknown; 215 Pulled (.475), 107 Up the middle (.236), 131 Opposite field (.289) (1 appeal, 16 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 60 walks (5 intentional); 169 hits (126 1b, 27 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 59 runs (55 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 169-806 (.210) +60 walks (5 intentional) WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.95
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
On Base: 3 Walks, 3 hits, (1 infield, 2 outfield) (2 1b, 1 HR); 1 pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
+++
Start 28Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Expos batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Expos
1. R. Hunt R,4.......(1)f(7)...(3)f(8)...(6)1b(4).....(8)f(8)
2. C. Mashore R,9....(1)K......(4)f(9)...(6)f(8)......(9)K
3. B. Bailey R,5.....(1)W......(4)HR(7)..(6)gDP(5-4-3)(9)K
4. H. Breeden R,3....(1)K......(4)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3)...(9)1b(8)
4. M. Jorgensen L,PR)..................................(9)PR
5. K. Singleton B,7..(2)g(5-3).(4)K......(7)W.........(9)g(3)
6. R. Woods R,8......(2)f(7)...(5)K......(7)g(4-6)
7. T. Foli R,6.......(2)g(5-3).(5)K......(7)f(9)
8. J. Boccabella R,2.(3)g(1-3).(5)W......(8)g(6-3)
9. E. MacAnally R,1..(3)f(9)...(5)K
9. H. Torres R,PH........................(8)g(6-3)
9. M. Marshall R,1
For Carlton
Cumulative through 29 starts: 241 1/3 innings, 724 outs, 20 complete games, 7 shutouts, 14 consecutive wins (including 4 no decisions), 7 shutouts
Outs: 240K, 217g, 232f (158 outfield, 74 infield), 4 unknown; 215 Pulled (.475), 107 Up the middle (.236), 131 Opposite field (.289) (1 appeal, 16 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 60 walks (5 intentional); 169 hits (126 1b, 27 2b, 3 3b, 13HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 59 runs (55 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 169-806 (.210) +60 walks (5 intentional) WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.95
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 32 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (32*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (3*2.2)=124
Expos were 3-29
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K; 10g; 8f(0 infield, 8 outfield); 8 pulled, 4 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field; 1 double play
+++
August 9 at Pittsburgh Three Rivers Stadium: Phi 2 Pit 0; Carlton 18-6 (2.09) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Steve Blass (R) 12-6 (2.61) Steve Blass in action (Game 7, 1971 World Series)
Carlton has pitched better games statistically (see Starts 2 and 3 below), but given the opposition, this was his best game of the year so far. It was his 13th consecutive win (including 4 no decisions), 19th complete game, 7th shutout, and the 5th consecutive start in which he has allowed 5 or less hits. His new scoreless inning streak extended to 23 2/3 innings. His scoreless earned run streak extended to 54 innings. He has given up 1 unearned run in the last 54 innings. He completely throttled the 2nd best offense (by runs scored) in the National League, walking 1 and striking out 12. He now has 232 strikeouts in 232 1/3 innings. He has received 89 runs of support in 28 starts (30 of those runs came in 4 of the starts).
Steve Blass' Repertoire: (6'0", 165 lbs, 103-76, 3.63, 2 saves, 1964-1974)
1. Slider; 2. Fastball; 3. Big Slow Curve; 4. Sinking Fastball; 5. Curve (Five Seasons, by Roger Angell, 1977; Major League Baseball, 1969, by Jack Zanger) via NJ, P. 136.
"In 1973, Blass developed an inexplicable inability to throw strikes, from which he never recovered." (NJ, P. 136).
"Good but not overpowering stuff, excellent slider, good curve, good changeup curve. A pattern pitcher, whose slider works because of its location, no control problems. Intelligent, knows how to win." (New Yorker, Roger Angell, via SABR biography linked to above.
Orioles Manager Earl Weaver (H) tried to rattle Blass in the 1st inning of the 7th Game of the 1971 World Series by complaining to the umpires about Blass going to his mouth, Blass not completely stopping in his stretch position, Blass not being in contact with the rubber when he pitched. Weaver stopped the game twice with this stuff. All it did was concentrate Blass' attention. He pitched a 4 hitter (2-1) to win the Series. In that series he was 2-0, giving up 7 hits and 2 runs (1.00 era) with 4 walks and 13 strikeouts. It was the best performance by a Pirates pitcher in a World Series since Babe Adams won 3 complete games (including the 7th game) of the 1909 World Series, compiling an ERA of 1.33 ((Sports Encyclopedia Baseball, by David S. Neft, Richard M. Cohen, and Michael L. Neft, 1999 edition, P. 403 [Blass], P. 47 [Adams]).
Blass had his career year in 1972. He finished 19-8, 2.49. Then...
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 011 000 000--2-8-0--(39-64--40-64) 6 E -25.0 g
Pit 000 000 000--0-3-1--(65-38--65-39) 1 E +8.5 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 19,832; Wednesday Night Game: 8:05 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Lee Weyer (retrosheet.org) (2 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--60F, 9:00--59 10:00--57
Wind: 8:00--14mph(Out of WNW), 9:00--9(WNW), 10:00--8(WNW); Blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--72%; 9:00--75; 10:00--81
8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 9 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
Pittsburgh Press: "Make No Mistake: Carlton Is Super," by Bob Smizik (August 10, P. 34).
Reading Eagle: "Amazing Carlton Forks Up Shutout" by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press, August 10, P. 54) Note: Unfortunately, the game story is not linked in this issue. Simply type "54" into the page box. Story is in Column 6 below the photo of Carlton in action.
Press Headline: "Equal Tax Base Urged In State: (Pennsylvania) House (of Representatives): Group Suggests Sweeping Law Changes," by John Taylor (August, 10, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: Still Deadlocked: No Progress at Paris" (Peace Talks between the US and Vietnamese). (United Press International, August 10, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast--Wayne Newton)
The Pirates 3-4-5 hitters, Al Oliver, Willie Stargell (H), and Manny Sanguillen were 1-10 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 59-297(.199) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.18 to 2.09
It was quite the all-round game for Carlton. In addition to the pitching, he hit a home run and made a crucial defensive play. Sort of like an 8th grader playing against 6th graders.
Rather than write a short game summary, I will let the participants tell you what happened, and what they thought about Carlton's ability and talent. The game stories were particularly rich in quotes. Everybody knew exactly what they were witnessing. Not exactly a statistical or Sabrmetric argument. But pretty convincing, in my opinion. Interestingly, later in his career, Carlton stopped speaking to reporters.
The Phillies scored their first run on an error.
Quotes from the Eagle.
All pronouns, unless otherwise specifically stated, refer to Carlton.
"I hit him like I used to hit (Sandy) Koufax (H)...which is like drinking coffee with a fork! You ever try that?"
Willie Stargell (H), Pirates First BasemanThe Pirates 3-4-5 hitters, Al Oliver, Willie Stargell (H), and Manny Sanguillen were 1-10 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 59-297(.199) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.18 to 2.09
It was quite the all-round game for Carlton. In addition to the pitching, he hit a home run and made a crucial defensive play. Sort of like an 8th grader playing against 6th graders.
Rather than write a short game summary, I will let the participants tell you what happened, and what they thought about Carlton's ability and talent. The game stories were particularly rich in quotes. Everybody knew exactly what they were witnessing. Not exactly a statistical or Sabrmetric argument. But pretty convincing, in my opinion. Interestingly, later in his career, Carlton stopped speaking to reporters.
The Phillies scored their first run on an error.
Quotes from the Eagle.
All pronouns, unless otherwise specifically stated, refer to Carlton.
"I hit him like I used to hit (Sandy) Koufax (H)...which is like drinking coffee with a fork! You ever try that?"
"He was overpowering!"
"Amazing!"
"A hell of a pitcher!"
"He's a machine!"
"I can't believe it!"
Various unattributed comments after the game.
"I just can't believe anyone can pitch better than he has. And he's a competitor. You give him a run or two early, and he really gets tough."
Paul Owens, (Wikipedia) Phillies Manager
"He (Blass) threw me one of those big changes he's got, and I managed to regain my balance and hit it. I knew it was gone when I hit it."
Steve Carlton, reflecting on his 3rd inning "insurance" run home run to right field, his first home run of the season (4th of his career).
"Very pleasing. I've had success back and forth against them. Sometimes I've pitched well and other times they came out on top. It's an accomplishment to hold them to a few hits like that."
Steve Carlton
Quotes from the Press.
"If you're talking about velocity, we've faced guys as fast, but not one with a breaking ball like Carlton's. I'd have to say he's the best pitcher we've faced."
Willie Stargell
It wasn't a slow curve and it wasn't a hard curve. It was in between. The most frustrating thing was giving up the home run to the pitcher."
Steve Blass on Carlton's home run.
"I guess it was my most satisfying win. They are a tough team to shut out. The ninth inning was typical of them."
Steve Carlton
"He (Roberto Clemente [H], Pirates pinch hitter [playing in only his 2nd game of the last 16]) fouled off a lot of good pitches. That's the type of hitter he is. He'll foul off what he doesn't like until he gets something he wants" (Clemente led off the ninth with a walk.). Interestingly, Carlton threw 27 pitches in the 9th...to four batters. One of those batters bunted on the 2nd pitch. Which means, most likely, that the Carlton v Clemente match up was one for the ages.
Steve Carlton
Leadoff man Gene Clines (Wikipedia) then singled. Rennie Stennett (who owns the MLB modern record for hits in a 9 inning game with 7 [SABR game story]) then attempted a sacrifice. "Stennett hit the ball in the air to Carlton's right.". Here Carlton picks up the narrative:
"I just reached it at the last moment. I had to regain my balance after the pitch and just got it in time (on the fly)." Carlton then doubled pinch runner Dock Ellis off 2nd.
"That had to be the turning point of the game. They had their big hitters coming up. They can score three runs before you can get somebody warmed up."
"I like the cold weather. I was extremely happy when I heard the weather report."
Steve Carlton
"He's like a machine. I marvel at him. He was quicker tonight in the first seven innings than I've seen him in some time."
Paul Owens, (Wikipedia) Phillies Manager
["Carlton picked up all 12 of his strikeouts in the first 6 innings. But if he was slower in the last 3 innings, (Pirates Manager Bill) Virdon could barely notice it."] (Pittsburgh Press--Smitzik)
"I'd say he was off just a hair of what he had been doing."
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Pirates batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Pirates
1. G. Clines R,9......(1)K......(4)g(6-3).(6)K......(9)1b(8)
2. R. Stennett R,4....(1)g(6-3).(4)2b(9).(6)f(3)*(9)fDP(1-6)$
3. A. Oliver L,8......(1)Kc.....(4)K......(7)g(4-3).(9)f(9)
4. W. Stargell(H) L,3.(2)f(5)...(4)K......(7)f(7)...
5. M. Sanguillen R,2..(2)g(1-3).(5)1b(8)..(7)g(5-3)
6. B. Robertson R,7...(2)Kc.....(5)K......(8)g(5-3)
7. R. Hebner L,5......(3)g(6-3).(5)K......(8)g(4-1)
8. J. Hernandez R,6...(3)K(2-3).(5)K
8. J. Pagan R,PH..........................(8)f(5)
8. G. Alley R,6
9. S. Blass R,1.......(3)K......(6)K
9. R. Clemente(H) R,PH....................(9)W
9. D. Ellis B,PR
*=Foul ball
$=Stennett, attempting to sacrifice, bunted into a double play--1(Carlton)-6(shortstop Larry Bowa)
For Carlton
Cumulative through 28 starts; 232 1/3 innings, 697 outs, 19 complete games, 7 shutouts
Outs: 232K, 207g, 224f(150 outfield, 74 infield), 4 unknown; 207 Pulled, 103 Up the middle, 125 Opposite field (1 appeal, 15 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 57 walks (5 intentional); 166 hits (124 1b, 27 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing Batting Average: 166-777 (.214) +57 walks (5 intentional) WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
On Base: 1 Walk, 3 hits, (3 outfield hits) (2 1b, 1 2b); 0 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
---
Pirates left handed hitters: Plate appearances 10: 0-10
Start 27
August 5 at St. Louis Busch Stadium II: Phi 5 St.L 0; Carlton 17-6 (2.18) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Reggie Cleveland (R) 12-7 (3.40) Reggie Cleveland in action: (Game 5 1975 World Series)
Carlton won his 12th consecutive game (including 4 no decisions) and twirled his 18th complete game. He pitched his 6th shutout. He gave up 5 hits, including a double to Lou Brock (H) leading off the 9th inning. It was the first extra base hit given up by Carlton since he gave up a double to Fred Kendall of the Padres with one out in the 10th inning on July 19--see Start 23 below), a span of 47 2/3 innings without giving up an extra base hit. He walked 1 and struck out 7. The closest the Cardinals had to a scoring opportunity came with 2 hits in the first. It was the only time they had 2 men on base in the game. Carlton has 220 strikeouts in 223 1/3 innings. His latest scoreless streak increased to 14 2/3 innings. His earned run scoreless streak climbed to 45 innings. He has received 87 runs of support in 27 starts (30 of those in 4 starts).
Reggie Cleveland's Repertoire: (6'1", 195 lbs, 105-106, 4.01, 25 saves, 1969-1981)
1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"Cleveland's fastball was thrown high and moved in on a right-handed hitter." (The Sporting News, July 27, 1974 and September 27, 1975, Peter Gammons) via NJ, P.166.
Reggie Cleveland was a journeyman for 4 teams. His best record came in 1973 (14-10; 3.01) with St. Louis, and 1975 (13-9, 4.43 with Boston). He started Game 2 of the 1975 American League Championship series and got no decision, giving up 3 earned runs on 7 hits in 5 innings. The Red Sox beat the Oakland A's 6-3. He then started the 5th game of the 1975 World Series, again pitching 5 innings, giving up 5 earned runs on 7 hits. He was charged with the loss in the Reds 6-2 win over the Red Sox. His busiest season was this season, in which he pitched 230 2/3 innings and finished 14-15, 3.94, after beginning the season 11-4, 2.99.
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 100 220 000--5-9-0 (38-62--39-62) 6 E -23.5 g
StL 000 000 000--0-5-1 (48-50--48-51) 4 E -13.5 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 25,505; Saturday night game: 8:00 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (retrosheet.org, Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--79F, 9:00--77 10:00--76
Wind: 8:00--8mph(Out of SE), 9:00--12(SSE), 10:00--13(SSE); Blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--72%; 9:00--79; 10:00--82
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 5 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
St. Joseph News-Press: Carlton Blanks Cards (Associated Press, August 6, 1972)
News-Press Headline: (Senator Edmund) Muskie Turns Down 2nd Spot, but (former Peace Corps Director R. Sargent) Shriver Accepts (Associated Press, P. 1).
Carlton continued to roll over the National League with his 12th consecutive win. It was also his 3rd shutout in the last 4 starts (in the other he gave up 1 unearned run). This time he had the luxury of 5 runs to work with as the Phillies opened the game with 3 straight hits and a 1-0 lead. They added 2 in the fourth and 5th on 2 run home runs by Bill Robinson and Greg Luzinski respectively. Carlton stifled the Cardinals on 5 hits, the fourth consecutive start in which he held the opposition to 5 or fewer hits. The Cardinals got 2 hits in the 1st, 1 in the 3rd, 1 in the 5th, and 1 in the 9th. Lou Brock's 9th inning double was the first extra base hit off him in the last 4 starts. The streaks and superlatives are all listed above. The amazing thing about this stretch is how routine it has become for him to shut down the opposition.
The Cardinals 3-4-5 hitters, Donn Clendenon, Joe Torre (H), and Ted Simmons (H) (Hall of Fame) were 2-11 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 58-287 (.202) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.27 to 2.18. Since his last loss (May 30, Start 11), he first had a poor game against Cincinnati (no decision). His era ballooned to 3.12(the only time all season it would be over 3.00. Since then it has dropped from 3.12 to 2.18 in 15 starts.
This was Don Clendenon's final MLB game. He was the Most Valuable Player in the 1969 World Series, won by the Mets over the Baltimore Orioles in 5 games. He was 5-14 (.357) with a double, 3 home runs, 4 RBI and 4 runs scored in 4 games. He led all players in home runs, runs scored, and RBI. (Sports Encyclopedia Baseball, by David S. Neft, Richard M. Cohen, and Michael L. Neft, 1999 edition, P. 391).
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Pirates batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Pirates
1. G. Clines R,9......(1)K......(4)g(6-3).(6)K......(9)1b(8)
2. R. Stennett R,4....(1)g(6-3).(4)2b(9).(6)f(3)*(9)fDP(1-6)$
3. A. Oliver L,8......(1)Kc.....(4)K......(7)g(4-3).(9)f(9)
4. W. Stargell(H) L,3.(2)f(5)...(4)K......(7)f(7)...
5. M. Sanguillen R,2..(2)g(1-3).(5)1b(8)..(7)g(5-3)
6. B. Robertson R,7...(2)Kc.....(5)K......(8)g(5-3)
7. R. Hebner L,5......(3)g(6-3).(5)K......(8)g(4-1)
8. J. Hernandez R,6...(3)K(2-3).(5)K
8. J. Pagan R,PH..........................(8)f(5)
8. G. Alley R,6
9. S. Blass R,1.......(3)K......(6)K
9. R. Clemente(H) R,PH....................(9)W
9. D. Ellis B,PR
*=Foul ball
$=Stennett, attempting to sacrifice, bunted into a double play--1(Carlton)-6(shortstop Larry Bowa)
For Carlton
Cumulative through 28 starts; 232 1/3 innings, 697 outs, 19 complete games, 7 shutouts
Outs: 232K, 207g, 224f(150 outfield, 74 infield), 4 unknown; 207 Pulled, 103 Up the middle, 125 Opposite field (1 appeal, 15 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 57 walks (5 intentional); 166 hits (124 1b, 27 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing Batting Average: 166-777 (.214) +57 walks (5 intentional) WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.96
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 30 batters: Pitch Count: Actual: 113 (86 in the first 8 innings, 27 in the 9th inning), (Estimate (30*3.3) + (12*1.5) + (1*2.2)=119
Pirates were 3-29
Outs: 27 (8 right handed batters, 3 left handed batters)
Outs: 12K; 8g; 6f(4 infield, 2 outfield); 8 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field; 1 double play
---
Pirates Right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 20: 3-19
Outs: 8K, 5g, 3f(3 infield, 0 outfield); 5 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk; 3 hits (3 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b) ; 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
Pirates left handed hitters: Plate appearances 10: 0-10
Outs: 4K, 3g, 3f (1 infield, 2 outfield); 3 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 3 opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks; 0 hits
On Base: 0 Walks; 0 hits
+++
Start 27
August 5 at St. Louis Busch Stadium II: Phi 5 St.L 0; Carlton 17-6 (2.18) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Reggie Cleveland (R) 12-7 (3.40) Reggie Cleveland in action: (Game 5 1975 World Series)
Carlton won his 12th consecutive game (including 4 no decisions) and twirled his 18th complete game. He pitched his 6th shutout. He gave up 5 hits, including a double to Lou Brock (H) leading off the 9th inning. It was the first extra base hit given up by Carlton since he gave up a double to Fred Kendall of the Padres with one out in the 10th inning on July 19--see Start 23 below), a span of 47 2/3 innings without giving up an extra base hit. He walked 1 and struck out 7. The closest the Cardinals had to a scoring opportunity came with 2 hits in the first. It was the only time they had 2 men on base in the game. Carlton has 220 strikeouts in 223 1/3 innings. His latest scoreless streak increased to 14 2/3 innings. His earned run scoreless streak climbed to 45 innings. He has received 87 runs of support in 27 starts (30 of those in 4 starts).
Reggie Cleveland's Repertoire: (6'1", 195 lbs, 105-106, 4.01, 25 saves, 1969-1981)
1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"Cleveland's fastball was thrown high and moved in on a right-handed hitter." (The Sporting News, July 27, 1974 and September 27, 1975, Peter Gammons) via NJ, P.166.
Reggie Cleveland was a journeyman for 4 teams. His best record came in 1973 (14-10; 3.01) with St. Louis, and 1975 (13-9, 4.43 with Boston). He started Game 2 of the 1975 American League Championship series and got no decision, giving up 3 earned runs on 7 hits in 5 innings. The Red Sox beat the Oakland A's 6-3. He then started the 5th game of the 1975 World Series, again pitching 5 innings, giving up 5 earned runs on 7 hits. He was charged with the loss in the Reds 6-2 win over the Red Sox. His busiest season was this season, in which he pitched 230 2/3 innings and finished 14-15, 3.94, after beginning the season 11-4, 2.99.
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 100 220 000--5-9-0 (38-62--39-62) 6 E -23.5 g
StL 000 000 000--0-5-1 (48-50--48-51) 4 E -13.5 g
Time: 1:48; Attendance: 25,505; Saturday night game: 8:00 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (retrosheet.org, Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--79F, 9:00--77 10:00--76
Wind: 8:00--8mph(Out of SE), 9:00--12(SSE), 10:00--13(SSE); Blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--72%; 9:00--79; 10:00--82
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 5 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
St. Joseph News-Press: Carlton Blanks Cards (Associated Press, August 6, 1972)
News-Press Headline: (Senator Edmund) Muskie Turns Down 2nd Spot, but (former Peace Corps Director R. Sargent) Shriver Accepts (Associated Press, P. 1).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast--Wayne Newton)
Carlton continued to roll over the National League with his 12th consecutive win. It was also his 3rd shutout in the last 4 starts (in the other he gave up 1 unearned run). This time he had the luxury of 5 runs to work with as the Phillies opened the game with 3 straight hits and a 1-0 lead. They added 2 in the fourth and 5th on 2 run home runs by Bill Robinson and Greg Luzinski respectively. Carlton stifled the Cardinals on 5 hits, the fourth consecutive start in which he held the opposition to 5 or fewer hits. The Cardinals got 2 hits in the 1st, 1 in the 3rd, 1 in the 5th, and 1 in the 9th. Lou Brock's 9th inning double was the first extra base hit off him in the last 4 starts. The streaks and superlatives are all listed above. The amazing thing about this stretch is how routine it has become for him to shut down the opposition.
The Cardinals 3-4-5 hitters, Donn Clendenon, Joe Torre (H), and Ted Simmons (H) (Hall of Fame) were 2-11 with 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 58-287 (.202) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.27 to 2.18. Since his last loss (May 30, Start 11), he first had a poor game against Cincinnati (no decision). His era ballooned to 3.12(the only time all season it would be over 3.00. Since then it has dropped from 3.12 to 2.18 in 15 starts.
This was Don Clendenon's final MLB game. He was the Most Valuable Player in the 1969 World Series, won by the Mets over the Baltimore Orioles in 5 games. He was 5-14 (.357) with a double, 3 home runs, 4 RBI and 4 runs scored in 4 games. He led all players in home runs, runs scored, and RBI. (Sports Encyclopedia Baseball, by David S. Neft, Richard M. Cohen, and Michael L. Neft, 1999 edition, P. 391).
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Cardinals
1. L. Brock(H) L,7...(1)K......(3)g(3-1)...(6)K......(9)2b(8)
2. T. Sizemore R,4...(1)g(5-3).(3)g(1-3)...(6)f(7)..(9)g(5-3)
3. D. Clendenon R,3..(1)1b(8)..(4)Kc.......(7)g(6-3)(9)g(5-3)
4. J. Torre(H) R,5...(1)1b(7)..(4)g(3).....(7)g(2-3).(9)f(8)
5. T. Simmons(H) B,2.(1)f(8)...(4)g(6-3)...(7)f(8)
6. L. Melendez R,9...(2)g(5-3).(5)1b(7)....(8)W
7. J. Roque R,8......(2)K......(5)gDP(6-3).(8)K
8. D. Maxvill R,6....(2)f(9)...(5)g(5-3)
8. R. Bare R,1
8. J. McNertney R,PH.......................(8)f(L3)
8. M. Drabowsky R,1
9. R. Cleveland R,1..(3)1b(9)#
9. D. Anderson, R,PH,6.........(6)K........(8)K
#=Cleveland was out trying to stretch the hit into a double--9(Bill Robinson)-6 (Larry Bowa)
For Carlton
Cumulative through 27 starts (223 1/3 innings, 670 outs, 18 complete games, 6 shutouts
Outs: 220K, 199g, 218f(148 outfield, 70 infield), 4 unknown; 199 Pulled, 101 Up the middle, 121 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 14 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 56 walks (5 intentional); 163 hits (122 1b, 26 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 163-748 (.218) +56 walks (5 intentional) WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.98
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits, (5 outfield hits) (4 1b, 1 2b); 2 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; , 1 out on the bases
---
Cardinals left handed hitters: Plate appearances 4: 1-4
+++
Start 26
August 1 at New York Shea Stadium: Phi 4 NY 1; Carlton 16-6 (2.27) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Koosman (L) 7-7 (3.79) Jerry Koosman in action (Game 2, 1969 World Series)
Carlton's 30 1/3 inning scoreless streak was stopped when the Mets scored an unearned run in the 4th. His earned run scoreless inning streak grew to 36. Once again the game was tied going into the top of the 9th. Then the offense came to life, scoring 3 runs to put the game away. It was Carlton's 17th complete game and 11th win in succession. He walked 2 and struck out 5. He now has 213 strikeouts in 214 1/3 innings. He has received 82 runs of support in 26 starts (30 of those runs came in 4 starts) Interestingly, this was the second game of a double header. The Mets won the first game 3-2 in 18 innings. That game took 4 hours and 28 minutes. The second game took 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Jerry Koosman's Repertoire: (6'2", 205 lbs, 222-209, 3.36, 17 saves, 1967-1985)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Change; 4. Slider (developed in 1974)
(Jack Lang, The Sporting News, 1974 and 1976, via NJ, P. 270)
"Koosman didn't really have a good fastball from 1970-1973". (NJ, P. 270)
"Jerry had good stuff and he knew he had good stuff...They should have paid him for all the bats he broke. Jerry...could get that fastball in on right handers, and I mean he ate them up."
Ron Swoboda in (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbock, 2002) via NJ, P. 270.
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 001 000 003--4-6-0--(34-62--35-62) 6 E -25.5 g
NY 000 100 000--1-5-0--(53-41--53-42) 2 E -6.5 g
Time: 1:45; Attendance 31,846; Tuesday 2nd game of a twi-night double header. 1st game began at 5:35 pm: Home Plate Umpire: Bill Williams (retrosheet.org)(2 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
---
Mets left handed hitters: Plate appearances 3: 1-3
+++
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Cardinals
1. L. Brock(H) L,7...(1)K......(3)g(3-1)...(6)K......(9)2b(8)
2. T. Sizemore R,4...(1)g(5-3).(3)g(1-3)...(6)f(7)..(9)g(5-3)
3. D. Clendenon R,3..(1)1b(8)..(4)Kc.......(7)g(6-3)(9)g(5-3)
4. J. Torre(H) R,5...(1)1b(7)..(4)g(3).....(7)g(2-3).(9)f(8)
5. T. Simmons(H) B,2.(1)f(8)...(4)g(6-3)...(7)f(8)
6. L. Melendez R,9...(2)g(5-3).(5)1b(7)....(8)W
7. J. Roque R,8......(2)K......(5)gDP(6-3).(8)K
8. D. Maxvill R,6....(2)f(9)...(5)g(5-3)
8. R. Bare R,1
8. J. McNertney R,PH.......................(8)f(L3)
8. M. Drabowsky R,1
9. R. Cleveland R,1..(3)1b(9)#
9. D. Anderson, R,PH,6.........(6)K........(8)K
#=Cleveland was out trying to stretch the hit into a double--9(Bill Robinson)-6 (Larry Bowa)
For Carlton
Cumulative through 27 starts (223 1/3 innings, 670 outs, 18 complete games, 6 shutouts
Outs: 220K, 199g, 218f(148 outfield, 70 infield), 4 unknown; 199 Pulled, 101 Up the middle, 121 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 14 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 2 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 56 walks (5 intentional); 163 hits (122 1b, 26 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 31 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (31*3.3) + 5 (7*1.5) + 1(1*2.2)=115
Cardinals were 5-30
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 1 left handed batters)
Outs: 7K; 12g; 6f(1 infield, 5 outfield); 10 pulled, 5 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 double play
---
Cardinals Right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 27: 4-26
Outs: 5K, 11g, 6f(1 infield, 5 outfield); 9 Pulled, 5 Up the Middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk; 4 hits (4 outfield) (4 1b) ; 2 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 runner out on the bases
Cardinals left handed hitters: Plate appearances 4: 1-4
Outs: 2K, 1g, 0f; 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 0 opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks; 1 hit (1 outfield) (1 2b) 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field.
On Base: 0 Walks; 1 hit (1 outfield) (1 2b) 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field.
Start 26
August 1 at New York Shea Stadium: Phi 4 NY 1; Carlton 16-6 (2.27) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Koosman (L) 7-7 (3.79) Jerry Koosman in action (Game 2, 1969 World Series)
Carlton's 30 1/3 inning scoreless streak was stopped when the Mets scored an unearned run in the 4th. His earned run scoreless inning streak grew to 36. Once again the game was tied going into the top of the 9th. Then the offense came to life, scoring 3 runs to put the game away. It was Carlton's 17th complete game and 11th win in succession. He walked 2 and struck out 5. He now has 213 strikeouts in 214 1/3 innings. He has received 82 runs of support in 26 starts (30 of those runs came in 4 starts) Interestingly, this was the second game of a double header. The Mets won the first game 3-2 in 18 innings. That game took 4 hours and 28 minutes. The second game took 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Jerry Koosman's Repertoire: (6'2", 205 lbs, 222-209, 3.36, 17 saves, 1967-1985)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Change; 4. Slider (developed in 1974)
(Jack Lang, The Sporting News, 1974 and 1976, via NJ, P. 270)
"Koosman didn't really have a good fastball from 1970-1973". (NJ, P. 270)
"Jerry had good stuff and he knew he had good stuff...They should have paid him for all the bats he broke. Jerry...could get that fastball in on right handers, and I mean he ate them up."
Ron Swoboda in (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbock, 2002) via NJ, P. 270.
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 001 000 003--4-6-0--(34-62--35-62) 6 E -25.5 g
NY 000 100 000--1-5-0--(53-41--53-42) 2 E -6.5 g
Time: 1:45; Attendance 31,846; Tuesday 2nd game of a twi-night double header. 1st game began at 5:35 pm: Home Plate Umpire: Bill Williams (retrosheet.org)(2 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (partial) (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 8:00pm--81F, 11:00--78,
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of W), 11:00--9(SW); From right to left. then out.
Humidity: 8:00--52%; 11:00--60
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 1 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
New York Times (Proprietary): "Mets Defeat Phils 3-2 in 18th: Carlton, on 11th in a row, takes 2nd game 4-1," by Joseph Durso (August 2, P. 29, P. 34)
Reading Eagle: (San Diego Padres Nate) Colbert Couldn't Believe He Hit The Whole Thing, By Tom Emory (Associated Press Compendium of National League Games).
Nate Colbert (Friar Wire--50 moments) had a career night in St. Louis, hitting 5 home runs and driving in 13 runs in a double header with the Cardinals. The Padres won 9-0 and 11-7. Colbert's 5 HRs tied a MLB record set by Stan Musial (H) of the Cardinals in 1954. The 13 RBI broke a MLB record of 11 last set in 1966 by Boog Powell of the Baltimore Orioles. Powell had equaled the record set by Jim Tabor of the Boston Red Sox in 1939 and Earl Averill (H) (Baseball Hall of Fame) of Cleveland in 1930.
Colbert's 5 HR,13 RBI doubleheader
August 1, 1972
Game 1: 4-5, 2HR, 5 RBI, 3 Runs Scored
Game 2: 3-4, 3HR, 8 RBI, 4 Runs Scored
Musial's 5 Home Run Double Header
May 2, 1954 at St. Louis v New York Giants
Game 1: 4-4, 3HR, 6 RBI, 3 Runs Scored (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 2-4, 2HR, 3 RBI, 3 Runs Scored (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
SABR Musial 5 HR doubleheader story
Note: Nate Colbert attended the Musial doubleheader
Averill's 11 RBI doubleheader:
September 17, 1930, at Cleveland, v Washington
Game 1: 8 RBI: (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 3 RBI: (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Tabor's 11 RBI doubleheader
July 4, 1939, Boston Red Sox at Philadephia Athletics
Game 1: 2 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 9 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
SABR Game 2 Game Story--Tabor hits 2 grand slams and a solo home run
Powell's 11 RBI doubleheader
July 6, 1966 at Baltimore, v Kanas City Athletics
Game 1: 4 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 7 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Times headline: (Maine Senator Edmund) Muskie Favored in (Democratic) Party's Search for Running Mate (Vice Presidential Nominee): (Democratic Presidential Nominee George) McGovern, Postponing TV Explanation on (Missouri Senator and original Vice Presidential Nominee Thomas) Eagleton Begins New Quest: DOZEN ARE CONSIDERED: Missouri Senator, Formally Quitting Race, Says Unity of Democrats Is Vital", by James M. Naughton (August 2, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: "Decision Awaited: Muskie May Get No. 2 Spot" (Associated Press, P. 1)
Temperature: 8:00pm--81F, 11:00--78,
Wind: 8:00--9mph(Out of W), 11:00--9(SW); From right to left. then out.
Humidity: 8:00--52%; 11:00--60
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, August 1 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
New York Times (Proprietary): "Mets Defeat Phils 3-2 in 18th: Carlton, on 11th in a row, takes 2nd game 4-1," by Joseph Durso (August 2, P. 29, P. 34)
Reading Eagle: (San Diego Padres Nate) Colbert Couldn't Believe He Hit The Whole Thing, By Tom Emory (Associated Press Compendium of National League Games).
Nate Colbert (Friar Wire--50 moments) had a career night in St. Louis, hitting 5 home runs and driving in 13 runs in a double header with the Cardinals. The Padres won 9-0 and 11-7. Colbert's 5 HRs tied a MLB record set by Stan Musial (H) of the Cardinals in 1954. The 13 RBI broke a MLB record of 11 last set in 1966 by Boog Powell of the Baltimore Orioles. Powell had equaled the record set by Jim Tabor of the Boston Red Sox in 1939 and Earl Averill (H) (Baseball Hall of Fame) of Cleveland in 1930.
Colbert's 5 HR,13 RBI doubleheader
August 1, 1972
Game 1: 4-5, 2HR, 5 RBI, 3 Runs Scored
Game 2: 3-4, 3HR, 8 RBI, 4 Runs Scored
Musial's 5 Home Run Double Header
May 2, 1954 at St. Louis v New York Giants
Game 1: 4-4, 3HR, 6 RBI, 3 Runs Scored (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 2-4, 2HR, 3 RBI, 3 Runs Scored (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
SABR Musial 5 HR doubleheader story
Note: Nate Colbert attended the Musial doubleheader
Averill's 11 RBI doubleheader:
September 17, 1930, at Cleveland, v Washington
Game 1: 8 RBI: (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 3 RBI: (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Tabor's 11 RBI doubleheader
July 4, 1939, Boston Red Sox at Philadephia Athletics
Game 1: 2 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 9 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
SABR Game 2 Game Story--Tabor hits 2 grand slams and a solo home run
Powell's 11 RBI doubleheader
July 6, 1966 at Baltimore, v Kanas City Athletics
Game 1: 4 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Game 2: 7 RBI (Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play)
Times headline: (Maine Senator Edmund) Muskie Favored in (Democratic) Party's Search for Running Mate (Vice Presidential Nominee): (Democratic Presidential Nominee George) McGovern, Postponing TV Explanation on (Missouri Senator and original Vice Presidential Nominee Thomas) Eagleton Begins New Quest: DOZEN ARE CONSIDERED: Missouri Senator, Formally Quitting Race, Says Unity of Democrats Is Vital", by James M. Naughton (August 2, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: "Decision Awaited: Muskie May Get No. 2 Spot" (Associated Press, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles (#1: Too Late to Turn Back Now--Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose)
Carlton's 16th win (11th consecutive) came in the second game of a twi-night doubleheader. The first game took 18 innings and 4 hours and 28 minutes. Of course, the Phillies lost 3-2. It was "Banner Night" in New York's Shea Stadium and fans with banners were paraded around the field between games. Carlton didn't take the mound until after 10:30 pm. No matter. Although his 30 1/3 inning scoreless streak was snapped (a 4th inning one out single by Willie Mays (H), a passed ball, and a single by Cleon Jones--followed by a strikeout and fly out), the run was unearned. So at the end of the game, Carlton had started another scoreless inning streak (5 2/3 innings) and hadn't given up an earned run in the last 36 innings.
The Phillies scored a run the 3rd on a walk and two singles, and without the passed ball, Carlton would have been in a position to pitch his 3rd consecutive shutout. Instead he remained locked in a pitcher's duel with Jerry Koosman until the 9th inning. Suddenly, the Phillies offense woke up and got the amazing total of 3 runs for him. After making 2 outs they exploded for 3 hits and a walk. The big blow was a bases clearing double by Center Fielder Bill Robinson. Carlton then finished the Mets off with a 1-2-3 9th inning, retiring 14 of the last 15 batters he faced. For the second game in a row the proceedings were finished in an hour and 45 minutes or less. The game was much more important to the 2nd place Mets than the Phillies. Eons before, the Cardinals had beaten the Pirates, so the Mets knew a win in the second game could give then a tidy 1.5 game pickup on the 1st place Pirates, leaving them only 5.5 games behind.
Carlton retired 10 of the first 11 Mets he faced before the run scored and then the string listed above. All of that time the Mets knew the stakes. Still, they couldn't touch him. He disposed of them 1-2-3 five times. The 5 hits he gave up were all singles. He has now given up 14 hits in his last three starts (against the Mets, Cubs, and Dodgers--all teams with winning records), all of them singles. The last extra base hit he gave up was against the Padres on July 19 (a double by Fred Kendall in the 10th inning--see Start 23 below). The Phillies, in this game, as in almost every other since the beginning of June, have had nothing but paycheck and pride to play for. This win boosted them to 27 games under 500. Carlton has won 16 of the team's 35 so far.
The Mets 3-4-5 hitters (Mays (H), Jones, and Jim Fregosi (traded by the California Angels to the Mets in December 1971 in exchange for 4 players--one of whom was Nolan Ryan [H]) were 1-11 with 1 RBI and 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 56-276 (.203) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Tonight's RBI was the first by a 3-4-5 hitter against him since July 15, when the Giants' Chris Speier hit a two run, Inside the Park Home Run off him (See Start 22 below). That covers a span of 34 2/3 innings. In the last 4 starts, 3-4-5 hitters are 5-48 (.104), with 2 Home Runs (1 Inside the Park) and 4 RBI.
Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.37 to 2.27. For the 9th time, Carlton got more ground outs than fly outs.
Carlton's 16th win (11th consecutive) came in the second game of a twi-night doubleheader. The first game took 18 innings and 4 hours and 28 minutes. Of course, the Phillies lost 3-2. It was "Banner Night" in New York's Shea Stadium and fans with banners were paraded around the field between games. Carlton didn't take the mound until after 10:30 pm. No matter. Although his 30 1/3 inning scoreless streak was snapped (a 4th inning one out single by Willie Mays (H), a passed ball, and a single by Cleon Jones--followed by a strikeout and fly out), the run was unearned. So at the end of the game, Carlton had started another scoreless inning streak (5 2/3 innings) and hadn't given up an earned run in the last 36 innings.
The Phillies scored a run the 3rd on a walk and two singles, and without the passed ball, Carlton would have been in a position to pitch his 3rd consecutive shutout. Instead he remained locked in a pitcher's duel with Jerry Koosman until the 9th inning. Suddenly, the Phillies offense woke up and got the amazing total of 3 runs for him. After making 2 outs they exploded for 3 hits and a walk. The big blow was a bases clearing double by Center Fielder Bill Robinson. Carlton then finished the Mets off with a 1-2-3 9th inning, retiring 14 of the last 15 batters he faced. For the second game in a row the proceedings were finished in an hour and 45 minutes or less. The game was much more important to the 2nd place Mets than the Phillies. Eons before, the Cardinals had beaten the Pirates, so the Mets knew a win in the second game could give then a tidy 1.5 game pickup on the 1st place Pirates, leaving them only 5.5 games behind.
Carlton retired 10 of the first 11 Mets he faced before the run scored and then the string listed above. All of that time the Mets knew the stakes. Still, they couldn't touch him. He disposed of them 1-2-3 five times. The 5 hits he gave up were all singles. He has now given up 14 hits in his last three starts (against the Mets, Cubs, and Dodgers--all teams with winning records), all of them singles. The last extra base hit he gave up was against the Padres on July 19 (a double by Fred Kendall in the 10th inning--see Start 23 below). The Phillies, in this game, as in almost every other since the beginning of June, have had nothing but paycheck and pride to play for. This win boosted them to 27 games under 500. Carlton has won 16 of the team's 35 so far.
The Mets 3-4-5 hitters (Mays (H), Jones, and Jim Fregosi (traded by the California Angels to the Mets in December 1971 in exchange for 4 players--one of whom was Nolan Ryan [H]) were 1-11 with 1 RBI and 1 strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 56-276 (.203) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 25 RBI. Tonight's RBI was the first by a 3-4-5 hitter against him since July 15, when the Giants' Chris Speier hit a two run, Inside the Park Home Run off him (See Start 22 below). That covers a span of 34 2/3 innings. In the last 4 starts, 3-4-5 hitters are 5-48 (.104), with 2 Home Runs (1 Inside the Park) and 4 RBI.
Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.37 to 2.27. For the 9th time, Carlton got more ground outs than fly outs.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Mets
1. T. Agee R,9......(1)f(2)*..(3)f(6)..(5)gDP(4-6-3)(8)1b(8)
2. T. Martinez R,6..(1)g(1-3).(4)K......(6)g(4-3)...(8)f(9)
3. W. Mays(H) R,8...(1)f(L4)..(4)1b(8)$.(6)f(7).....(9)g(6-3)
4. C. Jones R,7.....(2)K(2-3).(4)1b(9)..(6)g(4-3)...(9)g(6-3)
5. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)W......(4)f(7)...(7)f(2)*....(9)g(5-3)
6. J. Beauchamp R,3.(2)g(4-6).(4)K......(7)f(7)
7. J. Grote R,2.....(2)g(4-3).(5)1b(7)..(7)f(9)
8. W. Garrett L,4...(3)f(7)...(5)1b(9)..(8)g(4-3)
9. J. Koosman R,1...(3)g(5-3)..(5)K.....(8)Kc
*=Foul ball
$=Mays to second on a passed ball by catcher Bateman while Jones was at bat
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Mets
1. T. Agee R,9......(1)f(2)*..(3)f(6)..(5)gDP(4-6-3)(8)1b(8)
2. T. Martinez R,6..(1)g(1-3).(4)K......(6)g(4-3)...(8)f(9)
3. W. Mays(H) R,8...(1)f(L4)..(4)1b(8)$.(6)f(7).....(9)g(6-3)
4. C. Jones R,7.....(2)K(2-3).(4)1b(9)..(6)g(4-3)...(9)g(6-3)
5. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)W......(4)f(7)...(7)f(2)*....(9)g(5-3)
6. J. Beauchamp R,3.(2)g(4-6).(4)K......(7)f(7)
7. J. Grote R,2.....(2)g(4-3).(5)1b(7)..(7)f(9)
8. W. Garrett L,4...(3)f(7)...(5)1b(9)..(8)g(4-3)
9. J. Koosman R,1...(3)g(5-3)..(5)K.....(8)Kc
*=Foul ball
$=Mays to second on a passed ball by catcher Bateman while Jones was at bat
For Carlton
Cumulative through 26 starts (214 1/3 innings, 643 outs, 17 complete games, 5 shutouts
Outs: 213K, 187g, 212f(143 outfield, 69 infield), 4 unkown; 189 Pulled, 96 Up the middle; 118 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 13 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 55 walks (5 intentional); 158 hits (118 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 158-718 (.220) +55 walks (5 intentional)
WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.99
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits, (5 outfield hits) (5 1b); 2 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 passed ball advanced a runner from first to second
Cumulative through 26 starts (214 1/3 innings, 643 outs, 17 complete games, 5 shutouts
Outs: 213K, 187g, 212f(143 outfield, 69 infield), 4 unkown; 189 Pulled, 96 Up the middle; 118 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 13 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 55 walks (5 intentional); 158 hits (118 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 58 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=0.99
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 32 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (32*3.3) + 5 (5*1.5) + 1(1*2.2)=115
Mets were 5-31
Outs: 27 (8 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 5K; 11g; 10f(4 infield, 6 outfield); 9 pulled, 3 Up the middle, 9 Opposite field; 1 double play
---
Mets Right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 29: 4-28
Outs: 5K, 10g, 9f(4 infield, 5 outfield); 9 Pulled, 3 Up the Middle, 8 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk; 4 hits (4 outfield) (4 1b) ; 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 passed ball that advanced a runner from first to second
Mets left handed hitters: Plate appearances 3: 1-3
Outs: 0K, 1g, 1f(1 outfield); 0 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 opposite field
On Base 0 walks, 1 hit (1 outfield) (1 1b); 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
+++
Start 25
July 28 at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 2 Chi 0; Carlton 15-6 (2.37) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Milt Pappas (1--Wikipedia) (2--SABR audio oral interview) (3--SABR no htter game story--ADDED AUGUST 19) (R) 6-7 (3.43) Milt Pappas in action (final pitches of his no-hitter against the Padres on September 2, 1972)
Carlton ran his scoreless string to 27 innings with his 16th complete game, a 4 hit shutout, his 5th. He now has won 10 in a row. He walked 1 and struck out 7. For the 5th consecutive game, the Phillies did all their scoring in a single inning, a two run walk off home run by Willie Montanez. Only 2 Cubs reached second base. They had 2 men on base in only the 5th and 9th innings. Carlton has now struck out 208 in 205 1/3 innings. Today 200 innings is a milestone for a starter. Carlton got to 200 in July. The Phillies have provided him with 78 runs in 25 starts. 30 of those runs came in 4 of the starts.
Milt Pappas' Repertoire: (6'3", 190 lbs, 209-164, 3.40, 4 saves, 1957-1973)
1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3: Slip Pitch (Palmball--refined in 1971)
"Paul Richards (who, as General Manager/Manager helped to rebuild/build 3 teams in the 1950's-60's--Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Houston Colt 45s) taught it (slip pitch) to me, but I hadn't used it very often as an out pitch in my pitching repertoire yet. Basically I palmed the ball and threw it with the same motion as the fastball except I didn't snap my wrist in the delivery."
Milt Pappas (Out at Home--Pappas with Wayne Mausser, 2001, via NJ, P. 334)
Pappas is remembered today as the guy who lost a perfect game
on an "iffy" two out, 9th inning 3-2 slider that 2nd year umpire Bruce Froemming (retrosheet.org) called a ball. The Cubs led the game 8-0 at the time. (See video above). Pappas was also the man who the Baltimore Orioles traded (along with two others) to the Cincinnati Reds in return for Frank Robinson (H). Robinson, in his first year with the Orioles (1966), won the Triple Crown (.316, 49, 122) and led the them their first (they were the St. Louis Browns before they moved to Baltimore) World Championship. He also led them to 3 more pennants and one more World Championship. Pappas finished his career with the Reds and Cubs 121-103.
Arm angle: three quarters
Chi 000 000 000--0-4-0--(47-45--47-46) 4 E -11.0 g
Phi 000 000 002--2-8-0--(32-58--33-58) 6 E -24.0 g
Time: 1:44; Attendance: 12,453; Friday Day Game: 1:30 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet.org)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 1:00pm--78F, 2:00--80, 3:00--82
Wind: 1:00--5mph(Out of N), 2:00--10(NW), 3:00--12(WNW); Blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--45%; 2:00--43%, 3:00--41%
1:00--Mostly cloudy; 2:00--Partly Cloudy; 3:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, July 28 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Temperature: 1:00pm--78F, 2:00--80, 3:00--82
Wind: 1:00--5mph(Out of N), 2:00--10(NW), 3:00--12(WNW); Blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--45%; 2:00--43%, 3:00--41%
1:00--Mostly cloudy; 2:00--Partly Cloudy; 3:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play, July 28 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
Chicago Tribune (Proprietary): Phils Defeat Cubs: Beaten in 9th by Homer 2-0, by George Langford (July 29, P. C3)
Reading Eagle: Carlton Still Hot; Gibson Cooled Off (compilation of all National League games by Herschel Nissenson, Associated Press, P. 6).
Tribune Headline: Up to (Vice Presidential Candidate Thomas) Eagleton: (Democratic Presidential Nominee George) McGovern by Frank Starr (July 29, P.1) The outcome was that Eagleton withdrew as candidate and was replaced by R. Sargent Shriver.
Eagle Headline: McGovern Backtracks (United Press International, P. 1)
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Carlton won his 10th consecutive game (including 4 no decisions), breaking the club record of 9, set by Grover Cleveland Alexander, Robin Roberts, and Ken Heintzelman. It was also his 5th shutout. He has now pitched 27 consecutive scoreless innings. In those innings, the Phillies have scored 5 runs. Carlton batted in 2 of them. His last loss came on May 30.
In today's baseball, a pitcher getting this sort of support and "keeping his team in the game" would be seen as a very effective pitcher, whatever his record. Today, many starters don't get a chance to stick around long enough to get a decision, but are lauded for their 6 innings of work (featuring a boatload of strikeouts and no decisions). Carlton took what he received and made it stand. If his team scored 2 runs, the other team was going to score 1. Supported by this awful offense, an offense that has of late been making a habit of producing the entire game quota of runs in one inning, he has won 10 straight games by these scores: *=complete game--no decisions not included in this list: 3-1; 3-1*; 1-0*; 9-4*; 4-2*; 4-2*; 4-1*; 3-2* (11 innings); 2-0*; and 2-0* One of his no decisions was 10 innings of shutout ball in a game the Phillies lost 1-0 in 11 innings.
The Cubs' 3-4-5 batters (Billy Williams (H), Jim Hickman (Wikipedia), and Jose Cardenal were 2-12, with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now hitting 55-265 (.208) with with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 24 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.48 to 2.37.
In this game the Cubs were completely stifled. Carlton recorded six 1-2-3 innings. The Cubs threatened twice, in the 5th and 9th innings when they put 2 runners on base. In the crucial at bat of the 9th inning, Carlton got a check swing from Jose Cardenal with runners on 1st and 2nd and two outs. Plate umpire Colosi called it a swinging strke and Cardenal was infuriated. He had to be separated from Colosi by Ron Santo (H) and new Manager Whitey Lockman,
who replaced Leo Durocher (H) at the All-Star Break (Durocher's 7th season with the Cubs and 23rd overall with 3 teams--he would Manage one more year and one more team--finishing his career 2007-1709 with 3 Pennants, a World Championship--and only 3 losing seasons). Carlton then struck Cardenal out to end the inning.
who replaced Leo Durocher (H) at the All-Star Break (Durocher's 7th season with the Cubs and 23rd overall with 3 teams--he would Manage one more year and one more team--finishing his career 2007-1709 with 3 Pennants, a World Championship--and only 3 losing seasons). Carlton then struck Cardenal out to end the inning.
A bloop single and Montanez' Home Run to right finished the proceedings. The game was played in a snappy 1 hour and 44 minutes.
"I don't follow records and statistics. I was more concerned about the weather and the wind. I don't like to pitch during the day, especially when it's hot. I feel the batter has an advantage during the day. He sees the whole ball."
Steve Carlton
"It was beautiful. I jumped up as soon as he hit it. One thing I didn't want was extra innings. Pappas was tough".
Steve Carlton, reacting to Montanez' walk off home run.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Cubs
1. D. Kessinger B,6...(1)f(4)...(4)g(5-3).(6)f(9)...(9)f(7)
2. G. Beckert R,4.....(1)f(7)...(4)f(L5)..(6)1b(8)..(9)1b(1)
3. B. Williams(H) L,7.(1)g(4-3).(4)f(7)...(6)g(6-3).(9)g(4-6)
4. J. Hickman R,3.....(2)f(7)...(5)K......(7)f(6)...(9)1b(5)
5. J. Cardenal R,9....(2)K......(5)1b(7)$.(7)g(5-3).(9)K
6. R. Santo(H) R,5....(2)g(5-3).(5)W......(7)g(6-3)
7. R. Monday L,8......(3)g(4-3).(5)K......(8)f(2)*
8. R. Hundley R,2.....(3)f(8)...(5)g(5-4).(8)g(6-3)
9. M. Pappas R,1......(3)Kc.....(6)K......(8)K
$=Cardenal stole 2nd while Santo was at bat.
*=Monday fouled out to catcher Bateman on an attempted bunt.
1. D. Kessinger B,6...(1)f(4)...(4)g(5-3).(6)f(9)...(9)f(7)
2. G. Beckert R,4.....(1)f(7)...(4)f(L5)..(6)1b(8)..(9)1b(1)
3. B. Williams(H) L,7.(1)g(4-3).(4)f(7)...(6)g(6-3).(9)g(4-6)
4. J. Hickman R,3.....(2)f(7)...(5)K......(7)f(6)...(9)1b(5)
5. J. Cardenal R,9....(2)K......(5)1b(7)$.(7)g(5-3).(9)K
6. R. Santo(H) R,5....(2)g(5-3).(5)W......(7)g(6-3)
7. R. Monday L,8......(3)g(4-3).(5)K......(8)f(2)*
8. R. Hundley R,2.....(3)f(8)...(5)g(5-4).(8)g(6-3)
9. M. Pappas R,1......(3)Kc.....(6)K......(8)K
$=Cardenal stole 2nd while Santo was at bat.
*=Monday fouled out to catcher Bateman on an attempted bunt.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 25 starts (205 1/3 innings, 616 outs, 16 complete games, 5 shutouts
Outs: 208K, 176g, 202f(137 outfield, 65 infield), 4 unknown; 180 Pulled, 93 Up the middle, 109 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 12, double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 54 walks (5 intentional); 153 hits (113 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR) 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 57 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing Batting Average: 153-687 (.223) + 54 walks (5 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits) per inning=1.01
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
On Base: 1 Walk, 4 hits, (4 1b) (2 infield, 2 outfield hits) 2 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 stolen base
Cubs left handed hitters: Plate appearances 7: 0-7
Cumulative through 25 starts (205 1/3 innings, 616 outs, 16 complete games, 5 shutouts
Outs: 208K, 176g, 202f(137 outfield, 65 infield), 4 unknown; 180 Pulled, 93 Up the middle, 109 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 12, double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 54 walks (5 intentional); 153 hits (113 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR) 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 57 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
*Intentional Walks are included in the walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 32 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (32*3.3) + 7(1.5) + 1(2.2)=118
Cubs were 4-31
Outs: 27 (7 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 7K; 10g; 10f(4 infield, 6 outfield); 14 pulled, 2 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field
---
Cubs Right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 25: 4-24
Outs: 6K, 6g, 8f(3 infield, 5 outfield); 11 Pulled, 1 Up the Middle, 2 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk; 4 hits (4 1b) (2 infield, 2 outfield); 2 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
Cubs left handed hitters: Plate appearances 7: 0-7
Outs: 1K, 4g, 2f(1 infield 1 outfield); 3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 opposite field
On Base 0
============================
The All-Star Game
July 25, Atlanta Stadium; National League 4, American League 3 (10 innings): Time: 2:26, Attendance: 53,107 Home Plate Umpire: Stan Landes
Carlton pitched the 6th inning (video). The American League was in the lead, 1-0. He walked Rod Carew (H) of the Minnesota Twins. He induced a double play grounder (3-6-3) from Bobby Murcer of the New York Yankees. He then got Reggie Jackson (H) of the Oakland A's on a ground ball to second. Interestingly, all three were left-handed batters.
Start 24
July 23 at Los Angeles Dodger Stadium: Phi 2 LA 0; Carlton 14-6 (2.48) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Tommie John (L) 8-5 (2.76) Tommie John in action (Game 4, 1978 World Series).
Carlton won his 9th game in a row, his 15th complete game and 4th shutout. He has now pitched 18 consecutive scoreless innings. He walked 1 and struck out 6. Once again the Phillies confined all their offense to 1 inning, and Carlton took care of that business as well. Once again, it was more than enough. He limited the Dodgers to 5 harmless singles. He wasn't as overpowering as usual, but was just as effective. He has now struck out 201 in 196 1/3 innings. The Phillies have provided him with 76 runs in 24 starts. This was his last start before the All Star Break (delayed this year because of the players strike).
Tommie John's Repertoire (6'3", 180 lbs, 288-231, 3.34, 4 saves, 1963-1989)
1. Sinking Fastball (key pitch); 2. Curves; 3. Cut Fastball; 4. Changeup (added in 1989).
John "was suspected of throwing a Spitball or Scuffball." (The Heart of the Order, by Thomas Boswell, 1989).
"The sinkerball was my meal ticket" (My 26 years in Baseball, by Tommie John with Dan Valenti, 1991). Both quotes in NJ, P. 256.
Arm Angle: three quarters
Phi 000 000 200--2-6-2--(30-57--31-57)--6 E -24.0 g
LA 000 000 000--0-5-0--(47-41--47-42)--3 W -8.5 g
Time: 2:00; Attendance: 21,288; Sunday Day Game: 2:00 pm; Home Plate Umpire: Bill Williams (retrosheet.org)(2 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (no hourly data from Weather Underground), daily data from Ultimate70s.com (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: High: 75F; Low: 62
Wind: 7MPH
Humidity: 73%
Fair
Temperature: High: 75F; Low: 62
Wind: 7MPH
Humidity: 73%
Fair
Game Stories:
Los Angeles Times (Proprietary): "Carlton's Arm, Bat Tame Dodgers: Pitcher Triples in 2-0 Victory," by Ron Rapoport (July 24, 1972, P. D1, D4).
Reading Eagle: "Bucs Better with Roberto in the Lineup" (Associated Press compendium of National League games, by Bruce Lowitt, July 24, P. 18)
Times Headline: "Market Soars: Stocks up 14 on Favorable Economy News" (Associated Press, July 24, P.1, Part 3, P.7).
Eagle Headline: "South Vietnamese Record Advances" (Associated Press, July 24, P.1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
The Phillies offense continued its tendency to score all of its runs in one inning during Carlton starts, with an interesting twist in this game. Today it was Carlton who did the damage, with a 2 run triple in the 7th inning to account for all of the scoring. A single and fielder's choice on a sacrifice bunt put 2 runners on base. Tommie John then bore down to strike out the next two batters, but Carlton smashed a high fastball off the right field wall (Frank Robinson [H] just missing a great catch).
Carlton pitched a quick, economical game (the notes to the LA Times story said he threw 107 pitches, 77 of them for strikes, which compares with a pitch count estimate [see above] of 123). The other game we have actual pitch count data for (see Start 18 below) underestimated the actual count by 10. So an underestimate of 6% followed by an overestimate of 13%. He left runners on 3rd base twice but otherwise had little trouble in his last start before the All-Star Game. He will probably not start in the All-Star Game on Tuesday in Atlanta due to his complete game today. (The 1972 All-Star Game was not the 3 day festival it is today. No Home Run Derby. No Futures game. Just an exhibition game featuring the best players in MLB).
The 3,4,5 batters for the Dodgers, Manny Mota (who set an MLB record for career pinch hits that stood for 22 years), Frank Robinson (H) (who was the first African American Manager in MLB history--for Cleveland as player manager and then manager beginning in 1975), and Wes Parker (6 1st Baseman Gold Gloves in 9 years) were 2-11 with one strikeout. The heart of the National League order is now 53-253 (.209), with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 24 RBI. Carlton's ERA dipped from 2.59 to 2.48.
"I've just turned 27. I think I'm just reaching my peak."
Steve Carlton
"It was just too much of Carlton on both ends"
Dodger Manager Walt Alston
"Not since Sandy Koufax had 213 strikeouts by July 20, 1965 has a pitcher been on that kind of a strikeout pace. That season Sandy set an all time major league record of 382" (the modern record--pitchers' season leading strikeouts were occasionally astronomical in the 19th century, ranging from Guy Hecker's [52-20] 385 for the Louisville Eclipse [American Association] in 1884 to Matt Kilroy's [29-34] 513 for the Baltimore Orioles [American Association] in 1886) was broken by Nolan Ryan of the California Angels [American League] in 1973.
Ron Rapoport.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Dodgers batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Dodgers
1. L. Lacy R,4........(1)f(L8).(3)g(5-3).(5)f(2)..(8)g(4-3)
2. W. Davis L,8.......(1)f(9)..(3)f(L9)..(5)1b(?).(8)f(9)
3. M. Mota R,7........(1)1b(?).(4)g(5-3).(5)f(9)..(8)(E7)*
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9.(1)f(5)..(4)g(5-3).(6)(E5)%.(8)f(8)
5. W. Parker B,3......(2)1b(?).(4)W......(6)K.....(9)f(8)
6. V. Valentine R,6...(2)f(8)..(4)1b(?)..(6)f(8)..(9)g(5-3)
7. S. Garvey R,5......(2)f(8)..(4)K......(7)f(5)..(9)g(6-3)
8. D. Dietz R,8.......(2)f(L7).(5)1b(?)$.(7)K.....
9. T. John R,1........(3)K.....(5)K......
9. B. Grabarkewitz R,PH..................(7)K
9. P. Richert L,1
$=Dietz stole second while John was at bat.
%=Robinson was picked off while Parker was at bat: Carlton to 1st baseman Deron Johnson
*=Mota reached second on an error by Bill Robinson, who was inserted as a defensive replacement for Greg Luzinski in the 8th inning.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 24 starts (196 1/3 innings, 589 outs, 15 complete games, 4 shutouts)
Outs: 201K, 166g, 192f(131 outfield 61 infield), 4 unknown; 166 Pulled, 91 Up the Middle, 105 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 12 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 4 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases
On Base: 53 walks (5 intentional); 149 hits (109 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 Inside the Park HR); 11 errors*, 1 hit by pitch; 57 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example)
Total Opposing batting average: 149-656 (.227) + 53 walks (5 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 34 batters: Pitch Count (actual--107 (77 strikes); Pitch Count Estimate (34*3.3) + 6(1.5) + 1(2.2)=123
Dodgers were 5-33, 1 picked off
Outs: 27 (9 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 6K; 6g; 14f(3 infield, 11 outfield); 11 pulled, 7 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 picked off
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits, (5 1b) (5 outfield hits) direction 0 known, 1 stolen base, 2 errors
---
Dodgers Right handed hitters: Plate Appearances: 30: 4-29
Outs: 6K, 6g, 11f(3 infield, 8 outfield); 8 Pulled, 7 Up the Middle, 2 Opposite field; 1 picked off
On Base: 1 Walk; 4 hits (4 1b) (4 outfield) (direction: 0 known); 2 errors; 1 stolen base
Dodgers left handed hitters: Plate appearances 4: 1-4
Outs: 0K, 0g, 3f(3 outfield); 3 Pulled, 0 Up the Middle, 0 Opposite Field
On Base 1 1b (1 outfield) (direction: unknown)
+++
July 19: at San Diego Stadium: Phi 3 SD 2 (11 innings); Carlton 13-6 (2.59) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Clay Kirby (R) 6-10 (3.22)
Carlton won his 8th in a row (not counting 3 no decisions), but it wasn't easy. His Pitch Count Estimate was 153, the 3rd time this season his EPC has been over 150. He pitched his 14th complete game. He had a very rocky start (giving up both runs and 4 of the 7 hits he allowed in the first two innings). Had the Padres' Kirby executed a squeeze bunt he tried in the 2nd, it would have yielded their 3rd run and perhaps ended Carlton's streak. He was dominant after that, though he had to work out of two out jams in the 10th and 11th. He walked 4 (2 intentionally) and struck out 8. He has now struck out 195 in 187 1/3 innings. He has received 74 runs of support in 23 starts. The Phillies left 14 men on base tonight.
Clay Kirby's Repertoire: (6'3", 175 lbs, 75-104, 3.84, 1969-1976)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Slider; 4. Changeup (Source: Sporting News, July 1971, Paul Cour, via NJ, P. 267).
"Throws swift fastball, hard slider, and concedes nothing..." (Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1972 edition, Zander Hollander, via NJ, P. 267).
Kirby was a good pitcher who played on some horrible Padres teams. He was 7-20 with a 3.20 ERA on their first team in 1969, a team that was 52-110. His main claim to fame was that he was pulled for a pinch-hitter in a game he in which was pitching a no-hitter, but was trailing 1-0 in the 8th inning (July 21, 1970). His pinch hitter struck out and the Mets added 2 runs in the 9th to win 3-0. The Padres improved to 63-99 that year. Kirby had his best season in 1971, his only winning season, 15-13, 2.83 on a team that was 61-100. In his 5 years with the Padres he was 52-81 (.391) on teams that went 294-506 (.367), including three 100 game losing seasons. He played on Cincinnati's 1975 World Championship team, but did not participate in the post-season . He died of a heart attack at age 43.
Phi 200 000 000 01--3-13-0--(29-55--30-55) 6 E -24.0 g
SD 110 000 000 00--2--7-1--(32-52--32-53) 6 W -21.0 g
Time: 2:36; Attendance: 6,787; Wednesday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Chris Pelekoudas (retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (partial data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--70F; 11:00--70
Wind: 8:00--9MPH (Out of WNW); 11:00-7 (W); From Right to Left and then from Right to Left
Humidity: 65%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play, July 19 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Phillies Win, Kirby Has Bad Night" (July 20, Associated Press, P. 29)
Eagle Headline: "Deadlock Remains: Red Envoys Stand Fast" (a story about delays in the Vietnam Peace Conference (July 20, Associated Press, P. 1)
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The Phillies continued their interesting proclivity to confine all their runs to a single inning in Carlton starts. This time, at least, they did hit the ball, peppering Kirby for 13 hits, in addition to the 3 walks and a Fred Stanley (Wikipedia) (who had been brought in for defense in the 9th inning) error. They left 14 men on base, including, after the 5th inning, the bases loaded twice and two men on once, among a total of 10 of the 14. Carlton pitched through all of this, where two clutch hits could have produced 4 to 6 more runs. He began slowly, giving the Padres 2 runs in the first two innings, but a botched suicide squeeze by Kirby after a single and a triple destroyed the 2nd inning. The Padres got 3 hits the last 9 innings of the game (one was picked off), as Carlton simply went out and throttled them until the Phillies got around to scoring again. In the 10th and 11th, he got out of jams (possibly he tired). And a strange decision by Manager Don Zimmer (his first MLB Manging position--he replaced Preston Gomez [the first Padres Manager] after the 11th game of the season), who allowed Kirby to bat with two outs and the winning run in scoring position, didn't hurt. The Phillies futility finally ended in the 11th inning, on 2 singles and a game winning double by Bill Robinson (who had an 18 year career for 5 teams, during which he was on one World Series Champion and then two more as a Coach).
Both Carlton and Kirby pitched complete games. For Kirby, it was the 4th and final time this season he pitched more than 9 innings (10, 13, 11, 11), and all he had to show for his efforts were 2 losses and 2 no decisions. The Padres' 3,4,5 hitters, Jerry Morales, Nate Colbert, (still the Padres leading career home run hitter) and Clarence (Cito) Gaston (who went on to become the only African American Manager in MLB history to win a World Series (2--1993-1994 with Toronto) went 0-13 with 3 strikeouts. The Heart of the National League order is now 51-242 (.211), with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 24 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from to 2.65 to 2.59. The Phillies and Padres (the two worst teams in the National League), ended their season's series 6-6.
A couple of observations. The thoughts that must have been going through Carlton's mind during this last 5 game stretch, only he knows. But think about that fact that all he did was go out and pitch, pitch excellent ball (except for 1 poor start), and win 4 of them. The 8 game winning streak he has now is only half of what is to come. Also spare a thought for these two teams. Both were more than 20 games under .500, dead last, and more than 20 games out of first place before the All-Star game (which was delayed because of the strike this year). Two teams with absolutely nothing to play for but their salaries and pride. Really, who could possibly care about this game? Maybe the 6,800 who showed up on a Wednesday night. The Reading Eagle (who I am using as a proxy for a "home town" newspaper), used the San Diego AP story. There is hardly a word about Carlton in the story, but you will find out quite a bit about Clay Kirby, and the infinite frustration he felt playing for this awful team for 5 years. On a decent team, Kirby might have had a 20 game winning season. On a good team, you would remember him today.
"I'm disappointed with the way things have gone so far, but there are a lot of games [68] to go yet, and I've always been a strong finisher."
Clay Kirby
He finished 12-14 (3.13) for team that finished 58-95.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Padres batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Padres
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)1b(?)......(3)g(5-3).(6)1b(?)*.(8)f(8)
1. F. Stanley R,4.............................................(11)W
2. D. Roberts R,5...(1)1b(?)......(3)K......(6)f(8)...(9)K...(11)sb(5-4)
3. J. Moraldes R,7..(1)W..........(3)f(9)...(6)K......(9)f(8).(11)f(9)
4. N. Colbert R,3...(1)(gDP)5-4-3.(4)g(6-3).(7)K......(9)g(6-3)(11)IW
5. C. Gaston R,9....(1)K..........(4)g(6-3).(7)g(5-3).(10)f(4).(11)f(9)
6. J. Jeter R,8.....(2)K..........(4)g(6-3).(7)1b(?)..(10)K
7. F. Kendall R,2...(2)1b(?)......(5)?(3)...(7)f(L8)..(10)2b(?)
7. L. Stahl L,PR......................................(10)PR
7. P. Corrales R,2
8. E. Hernandez R,6.(2)3b(?)......(5)f(L7)..(8)g(5-3).(10)IW
9. C. Kirby R,1.....(2)&g(5-3)....(5)K......(8)g(5-3).(10)f(7)
&=Kirby missed the ball on a suicide squeeze. Hernandez was caught
stealing Home, Carlton to catcher John Bateman
*=Thomas was picked off first while Roberts was at bat: Carlton to 1st Baseman Tommy Hutton.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 23 starts (187 1/3 innings, 562 outs) 14 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 195K, 160g, 178f(120 outfield, 58 infield); 4 unkown; 155 Pulled, 84 Up the Middle, 103 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 12 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 3 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 52 walks (5 intentional); 144 hits (104 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 inside the park HR), 9 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 57 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 144-623 (.233) + 52 walks (5 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.05
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 40 batters (11 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (40*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (4*2.2)=153 pitches
Padres were 7-36 (1 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 sacrifice bunt)
Outs: 33 (10 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 11g, 10f(1 infield, 9 outfield), 1 unkown (1 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff); 13 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 5 Opposite field;
On Base: 4 Walks (2 intentional), 7 hits (7 outfield hits) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b); Direction: 0 known; 1 sacrifice bunt
+++
Start 22
July 15: San Francisco Candlestick Park (roll mouse to 1960 and then to 1972 to see the changes); Phi 11 SF 4: Carlton 12-6 (2.65) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Frank Reberger (Wikipedia) (R) 0-0 (4.12).
Carlton lasted only 5 innings (tied for his second shortest outing in innings so far [see Start 16]). This was his shortest outing this season by pitch estimate so far (76). He gave up 4 runs, struck out 5 and walked 1, and allowed 5 hits. Two of them were home runs, one by his nemesis Bobby Bonds (who continued to master his pitching--2-3--the other hit being a single, followed by a stolen base--now Bonds is 6-13 with 2 home runs, 2 doubles, and only 1 strike out v Carlton), the other an inside the park two run home run by Chris Speier. Carlton was taken out for a pinch hitter in the 6th. The game was won by the Phillies' biggest single inning output of the season so far, 11 runs in the 7th inning. They were ably abetted by ghastly Giants pitching (see below), Carlton now has struck out 187 in 176 1/3 innings. He has received 71 runs of support in 22 starts.
Frank Reberger's repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 14-15, 4.52, 8 saves, 1968-1972). I have been unable to find any information about Reberger's repertoire or arm angle. He pitched for 3 teams in his 5 seasons. His busiest year was 1970, when he pitched 152 innings for the Giants, starting 18 and finishing 7-8, with a 5.57 ERA. He did not participate in the Giants' NL Championship series v Pittsburgh in 1971.
Phi 000 000 (11)00-----11-8-2--(37-49--37-50) 6 E -22.0 g
SF 103 000 000---------4-6-0--(28-53--29-53) 5 W -16.0 g
Time: 2:50 (Retrosheet); 2:53 (Reading Eagle AP Box Score); Attendance: 5,984; Saturday Day Game: 1:00pm; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2.
Weather conditions (partial data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--76F; 5:00--76
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (Out of NE); 5:00--6 (WSW); From Right to Left and then from Left to Right
Humidity: 2:00--54%; 5:00--50%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play, July 15 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Reading Eagle: "Phillies Score 11 in Wild 7th" (scroll 2 columns left as there is no direct anchor to the story) (Associated Press, Jul. 12, P. 53).
Eagle Headline: "New Peace (Vietnam) Progress?" (Associated Press, Jul. 12, P. 1).
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Going into this game, the Giants had won 15 of their last 19, their best stretch of the season. Their record improved from 22-45 (their season's low point) to 37-49. But on this beautiful Saturday afternoon, they played their most appalling inning of the season to provide the Phillies with their 3rd win in the last 4 Carlton starts. And for the 3rd time in the last 4 Carlton starts, the Phillies scored all their runs and got most of their hits in one inning. Alas, it was after Carlton left the game, taken out for a pinch hitter in the fifth with his team down 4-0 (he gave up 3 runs after getting the first 2 outs in the 3rd--possibly his worst inning of the season so far. The Phillies backed him with 0 runs against journeyman Frank Reberger. In the 7th the Phillies had their biggest scoring output of the season, plating all 11 of their runs. 15 men batted, and got 6 hits (including a double and a triple), 6 walks (including 2 with the bases loaded), 2 wild pitches (1 scored a run), and 2 sacrifice flies. The Giants paraded 4 relievers to the mound after Reberger opened the inning with a walk and a single. Here is the inning as it happened.
Walk, Single, Walk, Single (1 run in), Walk (1 run in), Wild Pitch (1 run in), Walk, Sacrifice Fly (1 run in), Single, Walk (1 run in), Double (2 runs in), Squeeze Bunt Single (1 run in), Wild Pitch, Triple (2 runs in), Sacrifice Fly (1 run in), Walk, Strikeout.
According to the games story, the damage was done in 48 minutes. After that, two Phillies relievers mopped up. The Giants 3,4,5 hitters, Chris Speier, Dave Kingman (Wikipedia)/Ed Goodson (who replaced Kingman after one at bat in which he walked and then was picked off by Carlton--Kingman did not return to action until July 30, so it appears he suffered injury in addition to insult), and Tito Fuentes went 1-5 with a home run and 2 RBI. The Heart of the National League order is now 51-229 (.223), with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 24 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.52 to 2.65.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Giants
1. B. Bonds R,9.....(1)HR(?)..(3)1b(?)$..(5)g(5-3)
2. G. Maddox R,8....(1)K......(3)1b(?)...(5)K
3. C. Speier R,6....(1)g(6-3).(3)HR(?)#
4. D. Kingman R,3...(1)W&
4. E. Goodson L,3.............(3)f(7)
5. T. Fuentes B,4...(2)f(7)...(4)f(2)
6. A. Gallagher R,3.(2)g(5-3).(4)1b(?)
7. K. Henderson B,7.(2)f(9)...(4)f(L8)
8. F. Healy R,2.....(3)K......(4)K
9. F. Reberger L,1..(3)f(3)...(5)K
&=Kingman was picked off by Carlton and apparently injured--out until July 30.
$=Bonds stole 2nd while Maddox was at bat
#=Speier hit a 2 run inside the park home run
For Carlton
Cumulative through 22 starts (176 1/3 innings, 529 outs) 12 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 187K, 149g, 168f(111 outfield, 57 infield), 3 unkown; 142 Pulled, 80 Up the Middle, 98 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 2 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 48 walks (3 intentional), 137 hits (99 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 12HR--including 1 inside the park HR); 9 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 55 runs (52 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 137-587 (.233) +48 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.05
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 20 batters (5 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (20*3.3) + (5*1.5) + (1*2.2)=76 pitches
Giants were 5-19 (1 pickoff)
Outs: 15 (8 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 5K, 3g, 6f(2 infield, 4 outfield); 5 Pulled, 2 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 pickoff
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits (2 known outfield hits) (3 1b, 2HR--including 1 inside the park HR); Direction: 0 known; 1 stolen base
---
Giants right handed hitters: 17 plate appearances: 5-16 (1 pickoff)
+++
July 11: Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 LA 1: Carlton 12-6 (2.52) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Sutton (Hall of Fame) (H) (R) 10-5 (2.09) Sutton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube
In a battle against Don Sutton (H), who would (arguably) be the 2nd or 3rd best pitcher in the National League this season (19-9, 9 shutouts to lead the NL, and a WHIP [see below] of 0.91), Carlton pitched his 13th complete game and won his 7th consecutive game (including 3 no decisions). He pitched a 5 hit, 0 earned run 4-1 win over the Dodgers. It was Carlton's 1st start under new Manager Paul Owens (Wikipedia) (see Start 12 below). He walked 1 and struck out 8, with a wild pitch after a Tommy Hutton (Wikipedia) error leading to the only Dodger run. Carlton now has 182 strikeouts in 171 1/3 innings. By comparison, the 2nd leading strikeout artist in the NL at this point is Tom Seaver (H) of the Mets, with 112. The AL leader is Nolan Ryan (H) of the Angels with 138. (Source: Los Angeles Times game story--see below). Carlton has now received 71 runs of support in 21 starts.
Don Sutton's (H) Repertoire (6'1", 185 lbs, 324-256, 3.26, 5 saves, 1966-1988)
1966: 1. Curve; 2. Fastball (Source: Sporting News [Bob Hunter], July 2, 1966; The Heart of the Order [Thomas Boswell], 1990, and You're Missin' a Great Game [Whitey Herzog (H) and Jonathan Pitts], 1998).
Later: 1. Curve; 2. Fastball; 3. Slider; 4. Screwball; 5. Changeup (Source for this and earlier repertoire: NJ, P. 398-399).
"Sutton was frequently accused of doctoring the baseball" (defacing/cutting the ball rather than adding moisture) (NJ, P. 398).
"I don't think too many pitchers have mastered as many pitches as he has."
Walter Alston (H), Dodger Manager, managed Sutton from 1966-1976.
Sutton was also known to call his own games, pitch by pitch, either agreeing with his catcher, or using a sequence of swipes of his glove across his chest or down his pants leg to add to or subtract from the number of fingers with which the catcher had signaled. (Source: Pure Baseball: Pitch by Pitch For the Advanced Fan [Keith Hernandez and Mike Bryan], 1994, via NJ, P. 398-399).
Arm angle: three quarter
LA 000 000 010--1-5-0--(41-37--41-38)--3 W -6.0 g
Phi 040 000 00x--4-4-2--(27-51--28-51)--6 E -21.5 g
Time: 2:10; Attendance: 18,443; Tuesday Night Game: 7:35pm Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (retrosheet.org, Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--84F, 8:00--82, 9:00--78;
Wind: 7:00--9mph(Out of SW), 8:00--6(WSW), 9:00--6(SW); Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--55%; 8:00--60%, 9:00--68%
Mostly cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play July 11 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): Dodgers Beaten 4-1; Slumping Robbie [Frank Robinson] (H), [Maury] Wills May Be Benched," by Ron Rapoport (July 12, P. G1 , G2).
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "COOLED OFF AT HOT CORNER: [Steve] Garvey's Promise at 3rd Marred by Flood of Errors", by Ron Rapoport (July 12, P. F1, F11). Garvey was benched recently after a nightmare streak of 6 errors in 7 games. As of this game he had made 18 errors and would go on to lead NL 3rd Basemen in errors with 28 in 85 games. Two years later, on a pennant winning team, he began a streak of 4 consecutive Gold Gloves as a 1st Baseman, (having earlier moved Bill Buckner to Left Field). 14 years later, Buckner, playing 1st Base, would make one of the most famous errors in World Series History.
Reading Eagle: "Expos, Braves Wait and Win" (Associated Press compendium of National League games), by Hal Bock (July 12, P. 46)
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Phillies Fire [Manager Frank] Lucchesi: G[eneral]M[anager] PAUL OWENS FIELD MANAGER (July 11, Associated Press, P.17).
"I guess it's the same in politics, war, and everything else in life. You can't change the army so you change the General."
Bob Carpenter, Phillies Owner.
"I'm upset and hurt. But I have to take some of the blame for the team's poor showing."
Frank Lucchesi.
"I'm making Paul the manager so that we can fully evaluate every player on the club."
Bob Carpenter
Los Angeles Times Headline: NOMINATION NIGHT: Only Suspense Left: Demo[cratic Party] V[ice]P[resident] Choice: Main Event Looks Easy for [Presidential candidate George] McGovern (July 12, Associated Press, P. 1, with other related stories on P. 18, P. 19).
Reading Eagle Headline: "McGovern Seeks Old Guard Help" (July 12, United Press Intermational, P. 1)
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For the second time in his last three starts, Carlton got one inning of offense from the Phillies. And for the second time in his last three starts, he made that one inning stand up. On July 3 (see Start 19 below) they got all their hits and all their runs for the game in the 1st inning before an out was recorded. Today they got all but one of their hits (3) and all their runs in the 2nd. Just as in the July 3 game, their offense was completely throttled for the rest of the game, this time producing 1 hit and 1 walk, with the last 11 consecutive batters going down. The key hit in the Phillies' 2nd was a three run double by 3rd Baseman Don Money (Wikipedia) (who, as an aside, still holds 2 3rd Baseman defensive MLB season records--86 consecutive errorless games and 5 errors in a season--both set in 1974 with the Milwaukee Brewers of the American League). (Source: Baseball Almanac).
But for Rookie (played his first game June 30) 2nd Baseman Lee Lacy's 3 hits, Carlton would have twirled a 2 hit shutout. (Lacy, incidentally, fashioned a utility role with four teams into a 16 year career with appearances in four World Series' for two teams. He finished with a career batting average of .286 while never playing in more than 138 games in a season. He played every position but 1st Base, Catcher, and Pitcher). One of Lacy's hits, combined with an error and Carlton's 4th wild pitch of the season, gave the Dodgers their only run. Carlton had two pivotal confrontations, with 2 on in the first and with 1 on in the 8th. Robinson (H) was the hitter both times. Carlton retired him both times.
The Phillies caught the Dodgers in a very poor stretch that cost them a chance to challenge eventual Western Division Champion Cincinnati. On June 6 they were 29-18 and led the Reds by 1.5 games. On July 4 they bottomed out at 36-35, having lost 6 of 7 and 7 of 8 during that time. They recovered to finish 85-70, a distant 3rd, 10.5 games behind.
Carlton had 4 three up, three down innings, and gave up more than one hit in only one inning. The Dodgers' 3,4,5 hitters, Manny Mota (who set an MLB record for career pinch hits that stood for 22 years), Robinson (H), and Wes Parker (6 1st Baseman Gold Gloves in 9 years), went 1-11, a single by Mota in the 1st inning. The Heart of the National League order is now 50-224 (.223) with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.66 to 2.52. Don Sutton's went from 1.91 to 2.09.
"I hadn't seen him (Lacy) before and I wanted to test him, but I picked the wrong spot to test him. I'll pitch better next time."
Steve Carlton
"He's always a tough pitcher. And when you're not hitting he's going to get tougher. Every time I go up to the plate, I like to see somebody up there. I'm not sitting in the dugout thinking 'I hope nobody's on when I come up.' I feel I can do the job every time. There are times when you wonder: How long is it going to be? (Robinson was out from June 28 to July 6 due to a wrist injury. After this game he was 2-22 since his return). But I know what I need and when I get home I'm going to work on it. The first day back I'm going to get a half hour of good batting practice. That's not going to cure it by itself. If it did I'd come out earlier here. But these things are easier at home. I can look at tapes and see if I've picked up any bad habits, and see if I'm doing things I shouldn't be, or if I'm not doing things I should."
Frank Robinson (H).
Expletive deleted.
Maury Wills (whose average dropped to .124 after this game).
"Anything he gets to, he can still make the play. but we seem to have the choice of a good infielder or somebody batting .270. If we play the kids we get beat by errors. If we don't, we don't get the hitting.
Walter Alston, Dodgers manager, when asked about Wills' slump.
"The Philadelphia press was savage in its attacks on Tuesday on the firing of Phillies Manager Frank Lucchesi. Said one writer: 'Lucchesi's disillusionment, his utter crushed sorrow, is matched only by the naivete which led him to believe he could go on losing with the wretched team they handed him while he built [club President--part of the quote] Bob Carpenter's image.' "
Ron Rapoport, Los Angeles Times. The above three quotes are from the Times game story.
Interesting note in other games: Billy Williams (H), Cubs Left Fielder, had one of the best days of any hitter in MLB history. He went 8-8 in a double-header v Houston at Wrigley Field. In the first game he was 3-3 with a home run (his 17th) and 3 RBI (48, 49, and 50). In the second game, he was 5-5 with a home run (18) and 1 RBI (51), a double and 3 runs scored. He also had 4 putouts in the two games. The second game was the Cubs' 79th game of the season. The two teams split the double header. 1972 was one of two career years (1970 was the other) for Williams. He won the National League batting championship (.333) with 37 home runs (3rd in the League) and 122 RBI (2nd in the League). He also led the League in slugging % (.606). He was 2nd in the League in On Base % (.398). His OPS was 1.004 (led the League, although the statistic was not officially kept at the time). He had 34 doubles (4th in the League). He walked 62 times and struck out 59. He had 191 hits and scored 95 runs, while playing in 150 of the 155 games the Cubs played (7 less than the normal season because of the 1st MLB player's strike).
Johnny Bench (H) of the Cincinnati Reds won the 1972 NL Most Valuable Player award. Williams was 2nd. (Baseball Reference)
Here is a quick comparison using only the statistics available at the time (except for OPS, which is a simple sum of two averages). Judge for yourself who had the better year.
Johnny Bench: .270/40/125/ 87 runs scored, 22 doubles, slugging % .541, on base % .379, OPS .920, 100 walks, 84 strike outs, 284 total bases. Bench played in 147 games. He caught 129 games. He led the League in pick offs with 8.
Billy Williams: .333/37/122/ 95 runs scored, 34 doubles, slugging % .606, on base % .398, OPS 1.004, 62 walks, 59 strike outs, 355 total bases. Williams played in 150 games, 142 as a Left Fielder. He made 4 errors and had 9 assists.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Dodgers batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Dodgers
1. L. Lacy R,4.........(1)1b(8)..(3)g(1-3).(6)1b(7)..(8)1b(9)
2. W. Davis L,8........(1)K......(3)K......(6)f(8)...(8)E7$
3. M. Mota R,7.........(1)1b(9)..(4)g(6-3).(6)f(3)*..(8)&f(8)
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9..(1)f(9)...(4)f(9)...(6)W......(8)f(6)
5. W. Parker B,3.......(1)f(4)...(4)E3$....(6)g(6-4).(8)f(8)
6. C. Cannizzaro R,2...(2)f(8)...(4)K......(7)f(8)...(9)f(8)
7. B. Grabarkewitz R,5.(2)f(8)...(5)K......(7)1b(8)..(9)f(8)
8. M. Wills B,6........(2)g(6-3).(5)Kc.....(7)f(6)
8. B. Valentine R,PH.................................(9)K
9. D. Sutton(H) R,1....(3)K......(5)g(5-3)
9. D. Dietz R,PH...........................(7)Kc
9. P. Mikkelsen R,1
$=Parker reached on an error by Deron Johnson.
*=foul ball
$=Davis reached on an error by Tommie Hutton. Lacy advanced to 3rd.
&=Carlton threw his 4th wild pitch of the season, allowing Lacy to score. The run was unearned.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 21 starts (171 1/3 innings, 514 outs) 13 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 182K, 146g, 162f(107 outfield, 55 infield), 3 unkown; 137 Pulled, 78 Up the Middle, 96 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 47 walks (3 intentional), 132 hits (96 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 9 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 51 runs (48 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 132-568 (.233) +47 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.04
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=130 pitches
Dodgers were 5-34 (2 errors)
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 8K, 5g, 14f(4 infield, 10 outfield); 6 Pulled, 9 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (5 1b); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 2 errors (1 wild pitch scored the only run--an unearned run--Carlton's 4th wild pitch this season)
---
Dodgers right handed hitters: 31 plate appearances: 5-30 (1 error)
Outs: 6K, 5g, 13f(4 infield, 9 outfield); 6 Pulled, 8 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field outs
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (5 1b); 1 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field, (1 error--1 infield error--1 Opposite field)
Dodger left handed hitters: 4 plate appearances: 0-4 (1 error)
Outs: 2K, 0g, 1f(1 outfield) ; 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle 0 Opposite Field
On Base: 0 Walks, 0 hits, 1 error (1 outfield error--1 Opposite field error)
+++
Start 20
July 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 SD 2: Carlton 11-6 (2.66) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Mike Corkins (Wikipedia) (R) 0-5 (3.19)
This was Carlton's 11th complete game. He won his 6th in a row (not counting 3 no decisions). He gave up 9 hits while striking out 8 and walking 1. He has now struck out 174 in 162 1/3 innings. He has received 67 runs of support in 20 starts. At game time these were the two worst teams in baseball, with a combined record of 52-95, both in last place, an average of more than 19 games out of first. It was just before the midpoint of the season for both. The Phillies again used one big inning to put the game away. For the second straight Carlton start, the Phillies were outhit by their opponents.
Mike Corkins (6'1", 190 lbs, 19-28, 4.39, 9 saves, 1969-1974). I have been unable to find any information about Corkins' repertoire or arm angle. He was a relief pitcher most of his career. One of his main claims to fame was that he gave up Willie Mays' (H) 600th home run in 1969. Corkins never had a winning year and 1972 was his best year, 6-9, 3.54. It was also his busiest year. He pitched 140 innings.
SD 000 110 000--2-9-0--(27-47--27-48)--6 W -18.0 g
Phi 000 003 01x--4-7-1--(25-48--26-48)--6 E -20.5 g
Time: 2:14; This was the first game of a Twi-night Doubleheader. Total attendance was 18,106. Friday: 5:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (Retrosheet) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 5:00pm--77F; 6:00--76; 7:00--73; 8:00--71
Wind: 5:00--6MPH (from the WSW); 6:00--3 (SSE); 7:00--12 (S); 8:00--13(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 5:00-6:00--48%; 7:00--64%; 8:00--68%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play July 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
I could find no news story longer than 2 sentences about this game. Not terribly surprising, given that I have no access to Philadelphia or San Diego newspapers. The importance of the game was also a factor.
New York Times Headline (proprietary): "High Court Ruling Leaves Seating Up To Convention, Posing Major Test for [Democratic Presidential Candidate George] M'Govern: Decision is 6-3; Effect Is To Divide The California Delegation And Bar [Chicago, Illinois Mayor Richard J.] Daley Bloc," by Warren Weaver, Jr. (July 8, 1972, P. 1, P. 11).
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This was the first game of a Twi-night Doubleheader. Carlton faced off against journeyman reliever and spot starter Mike Corkins in a battle between the two worst teams in the League. Corkins pitched well, holding the Phillies hitless until 2 outs in the 4th inning, and off the scoreboard until the 6th. By that time the Padres had built a 2-0 lead with a 2 out rally in the 4th, a double by Left Fielder Clarence (Cito) Gaston (who would later manage the Toronto Blue Jays to consecutive World Championships in 1992-1993--the first and only African American Manager to win an MLB Championship), and a single by by Center Fielder Johnny Jeter (Wikipedia). In the 5th they scored again when Phillies' recently acquired catcher John Bateman (see Start 15 below) dropped a pop foul by Shortstop Enzo Hernandez (Wikipedia). Given a second life, Hernandez then doubled to left and was brought home by a single to right by Corkins. If you look at the Retrosheet play by play, you will see that had Hernandez' pop foul been caught, the Padres would not have scored in the inning. Yet Carlton was charged with an earned run.
The Phillies, for the second consecutive Carlton start, did almost all of their scoring in one inning. In the bottom of 6th, with two outs and a man on 1st, the Phillies parlayed a walk, a single, another walk, and another single into 3 runs. The crucial hit was the 2 run single delivered by Bateman. It was more than enough for Carlton, though the Phillies did add another run in the 8th when Left Fielder Greg Luzinski hit a solo home run. Corkins pitched 7 2/3 innings, succeeding in aiding the Padres pitching staff even though they lost the game. The Padres won the second game, so 4 1/2 hours between the worst teams in baseball ended in a standoff.
The Padres 3,4,5 batters, Jerry Morales, Nate Colbert (still the Padres all time career leader in home runs), and Gaston went 2-11 with 4 strikeouts. Carlton was at his best in the Padres 8th. After a lead off single by 3rd baseman Dave Roberts (Wikipedia) (the 1st overall pick in the 1972 draft, who never played a game in the minors before playing with the Padres--although he did spend considerable time in the minors later in a somewhat disappointing career), Carlton faced the heart of the order, each one the tying run at the plate. He struck them all out.
The heart of the National League order is now 49-213 (.230) with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.70 to 2.66.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Padres batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Padres
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)f(3)*..(3)1b(7)..(5)f(9).......(7)f(8)
2. D. Roberts R,5...(1)f(8)...(3)Kc.....(5)1b(9).....(8)1b(7)
3. J. Morales R,9...(1)g(6-3).(4)g(6-3).(5)gDP(4-6-3).(8)Kc
4. N. Colbert R,3...(2)Kc.....(4)f(7)...(6)f(7).......(8)K
5. C. Gaston R,7....(2)1b(7)..(4)2b(8)..(6)W .........(8)K
6. J. Jeter R,8.....(2)K......(4)1b(9)#.(6)gDP(6-3).(9)g(1-3)
7. P. Corrales R,2..(2)K......(4)Kc.....(7)f(4)
7. F. Kendall R,PH....................................(9)f(4)
8. E. Hernandez R,6.(3)f(7)...(5)2b(7)@.(7)f(5)*
8. G. Jestadt R,PH....................................(9)f(6)
9. M. Corkins R,1...(3)f(8)...(5)1b(9)..(7)1b(9)
9. M. Shaeffer L,1
*=Foul ball
#=Jeter stole 2nd while Corrales was at bat.
@=Hernandez' pop foul was dropped by catcher Bateman before he hit the double. Bateman was charged with an error.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 20 starts (162 1/3 innings, 487 outs) 11 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 174K, 141g, 148f(97 outfield, 51 infield), 3 unkown; 131 Pulled, 69 Up the middle; 92 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 46 walks (3 intentional); 127 hits (91 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 50 runs (48 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 127-534 (.238) +46 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=130 pitches.
Padres were 9-34 (2 double plays)
Outs: 27 (11 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 5g, 12f(5 infield, 7 outfield); 8 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 5 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (9 outfield hits) (7 1b, 2 2b); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field; 1 stolen base
+++
Start 19
July 3: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 SF 2: Carlton 10-6 (2.70) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Carrithers (Wikipedia) (R) 2-6 (5.60)
This was Carlton's 12th complete game, a 6 hitter with 2 walks and 7 strikeouts. But for Dave Kingman (who hit two solo home runs), he would have had a shutout. The win broke a Phillies 4 game losing streak which began after Carlton's last win (see Start 18 below). He now has struck out 166 in 153 1/3 innings. The Phillies got only 5 hits, all in the first inning when they scored all their runs. Carlton has now received 63 runs of support in 19 starts.
Don Carrithers (6'2", 180 lbs, 28-32, 4.45, 3 saves, 1970-1977). I have been unable to find any information on Carrithers' repertoire or arm angle. In 1972 he was 4-8 with 1 save and a 5.80 earned run average. His best year was 1974, with Montreal, when he went 5-2 with a 3.00 ERA and 1 save in 60 innings, almost exclusively as a reliever.
SF 000 100 001--2-6-0--(30-46--30-47) 5 W -16.0 g
Phi 400 000 00x--4-5-0--(24-45--25-45) 6 E -19.0 g
Time: 2:08; Attendance: 43,016; Monday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ed Sudol (Wikipedia) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). Sudol was a minor league 3rd baseman for 12 years (with 26 different teams) before going into umpiring in 1953. He made the majors as an umpire in 1957 and worked in the National League for 21 seasons. For more on him see the Baseball Hall of Fame audio interview. (Part 1) (Part 2).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--81F; 8:00--78; 9:00--74
Wind: 7:00--9MPH (from the SSW); 8:00--12 (SW); 9:00--9 (SW);
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--69%; 8:00--81%; 9:00--87%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play July 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Carlton Cops 10th, Phils Top Giants"
Post-Gazette Headline: "State's Budget Crisis Goes Before Committee: Funds Freeze Affects Some Bills, Salaries" by David Runkale (July 4, 1972, P. 1).
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The Phillies first five batters in the game got 4 hits sandwiched around a walk, scoring 3 runs and knocking Carrithers out of the game. When Right Fielder Joe Lis doubled in another run off reliever Frank Reberger (Wikipedia), they had runners on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out. Carlton might have thought this would be an easy walkover. But the Phillies offense, as it had done so many times this season, completely stalled. The did not score again, did not get another hit, received only 3 walks and a hit batsman, and had their last 15 batters in a row go down. The blowout turned into a tough victory as Dave Kingman (who was 1-6 with 4 strikeouts in his first two games against Carlton), hit two solo home runs to keep the Giants within striking range. The Giants also hit 2 doubles off him, but could never string anything together. It was Carlton's 5th consecutive win (not counting 3 no decisions) and got him to 10 for the season, 40% of the Phillies total to this point. His 6 losses were 13.33% of the team's. His strikeouts (7) were sub-par compared to his norm, but he also induced 5 ground balls (that led to 7 outs--2 double plays) and 7 infield pop ups. The Giants 3,4,5 batters, Chris Speier, Willie McCovey (H) and Kingman went 2-11 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 47-202 (.233) against Carlton, with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.74-2.70.
Bobby Bonds continued his good run against Carlton this season. He is now 4-10 with a double, a home run, and only 1 strikeout in three games against Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Giants
1. B. Bonds R,9......(1)2b(7)..(3)1b(7).....(5)W....(8)f(8)
2. J. Howarth L,8....(1)f(8)...(3)gDP(4-6-3)
2. K. Henderson B,PH,8......................(5)K....(8)K
3. C. Speier R,6.....(1)Kc.....(4)f(4)......(6)Kc...(9)f(3)*
4. W. McCovey(H) L,3.(1)W......(4)g(3)......(6)f(7).(9)K
5. D. Kingman R,7....(1)f(L5)..(4)HR(?).....(6)f(4).(9)HR(?)
6. Da.Rader L,2......(2)g(6-3).(4)f(6)*.....(7)1b(9)(9)f(9)
7. A. Gallagher R,5..(2)g(6-3).(5)f(7)......(7)K
8. T. Fuentes B,6....(2)f(2)*..(5)2b(7).....(7)gDP(5-4-3)
8. R. Moffitt R,1
9. D. Carrithers R,1
9. F. Reberger L,1...(3)Kc
9. C. Arnold R,PH..............(5)f(8)
9. D. McMahon R,1
9. D. Blanco R,4............................(8)f(3)
*=Foul ball
For Carlton
Cumulative through 19 starts (153 1/3 innings, 460 outs) 12 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 166K, 136g, 136f(90 outfield, 46 infield); 3 unknown; 123 Pulled, 65 Up the middle, 87 Opposite field (1 appeal, 9 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 45 Walks (3 intentional) 118 hits (84 1b, 22 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 48 runs (46 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 118-500 (.236) +45 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.06
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (33*3.3) + (7*1.5) + (1*2.2)=122 pitches
Giants were 6-31 (2 double plays)
Outs: 27 (9 right handed hitters, 3 left handed hitters)
Outs: 7K, 5g, 13f(7 infield, 6 outfield); 7 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 7 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 6 hits (6 outfield hits) (2 1b, 2 2b 2HR); 4 Pulled, 2 unknown
---
Giants right handed hitters: 22 plate appearances: 5-21; 1 double play
Outs: 5K, 2g, 9f(6 infield, 3 outfield); 5 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 4 opposite field outs; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (1 1b, 2 2b; 2HR); 3 Pulled, 2 Unkown
Giants left handed hitters: 11 plate appearances: 1-10; 1 double play
Outs: 2K, 3g, 4f(1 infield, 3 outfield); 3 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk, 1 hits (1 outfield hit1) (1 1b); 1 Pulled
+++
Start 18
June 29: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 9 NY 4: Carlton 9-6 (2.74)
Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Gary Gentry (R) 3-6 (4.06) Gary Gentry in action (Game 3, 1969 World Series)
Carlton pitched his 9th complete game, but he labored, throwing 171 pitches and giving up 7 hits while walking 6 (his most this season) and striking out 13. He has now struck out 159 in 144 1/3 innings. The Phillies produced their biggest offensive day of the season, with 9 runs (tying the most runs they've scored in a game this season) (and now 59 runs in 18 Carlton starts) and 17 hits (their most in a game this season). They scored in 5 different innings and everyone in the lineup had at least 1 hit (including Carlton's 2, the second of which gave the Phillies the lead for good).
Gary Gentry's Repertoire (6'0", 175 lbs, 46-49, 3.56, 1969-1975)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Changeup
"His stuff was every bit as good as (Tom) Seaver's (H)...He had just as live an arm...I used to warm him up in the bullpen...let me tell you something, his ball was all over the place. It just jumped and ran..."
Ron Swoboda (one of the heroes of the 1969 World Series, who also hit 2 home runs to beat Carlton and the Cardinals on September 15, 1969, during the Mets' 38-11 finish that won the Eastern Division Championship over the Cubs. Carlton, in that game, struck out 19 batters, and MLB record at the time. (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbeck, via NJ P. 216-217).
Gentry never lived up to his hype and the World Series game linked to above was the most important game he ever pitched. It was the first World Series game in Shea Stadium and the Mets and Baltimore Orioles were tied at one game apiece. Gentry got the win in that game, with a giant assist from Center Fielder Tommie Agee, who made a fantastic catch in the 4th inning (he made another in the 7th inning with Nolan Ryan [H] pitching--the two catches saved 5 potential runs. Agee also led off the Mets first inning with a home run, the only run the Mets needed in their 5-0 victory).
Arm angle: appears to be three-quarters to overhand.
NY 001 201 000--4--7-0--(40-25--40-26)--2 E -1.0 g
Phi 001 141 20x--9-17-0--(23-41--24-41)--6 E -16.5 g
Time: 2:51; Attendance: 14,451 (retrosheet.org), 14,457 (New York Times); Thursday Night Game: 7:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Stan Landes
(retrosheet.org). Landes, in the final season of an 18 year career, had 1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--68F; 8:00-10:00--67
Wind: 7:00--12MPH (from the E); 8:00--13 (E); 9:00-10:00--8 (E);
Blowing from Left to Right
Humidity: 7:00--90%; 8:00--93%; 9:00--90%; 10:00--93%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 29 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
New York Times (proprietary): "Phillies 17 Hits Crush Mets 9-4: Carlton Wins 9th, Fans 13 to Raise League-Leading Strike-Out Total to 159" by Dean McGowan (June 30, P. 41-42).
Reading Eagle: "Errors Hurt the Dodgers," (Associated Press compendium of National League games by Hal Bock, June 30, P. 24, P. 26).
Reading Eagle Feature Story: "(Recently fired [see Start 12 below] General Manager) John Quinn As Trader," by John W. Smith (SportopicS, June 30, P. 24). The article documents and "grades" every one of the 20 trades recently fired Phillies General Manager John Quinn made during his 14 year tenure (1959-72) with the team. For those old enough to remember, this is a real walk down memory lane way "back in the day." His best trade: Outfielder Johnny Callison from the White Sox for infielder Gene Freese (Wikipedia) in 1959. His worst trade with the Phillies: Pitchers Larry Jackson and Bob Buhl from the Cubs for Pitcher Ferguson Jenkins (H), Outfielder Adlolfo Phillips, and Utility Player John Herrnstein in 1966. But what he said was the worst trade of his career came in 1949 when he was General Manager of the Boston NL club. The team traded Infielders Eddie Stanky and Alvin Dark to the New York Giants for Outfielders Sid Gordon and Willard Marshall (Wikipedia), as well as Infielder Buddy Kerr (Wikipedia) and Pitcher Sam (Red) Webb (Wikipedia). Ouch!
Times Headline (proprietary): (Eight Column Headline): "SUPREME COURT, 5-4 BARS DEATH PENALTY AS IT IS IMPOSED UNDER PRESENT STATUTES: COURT SPARES 600: 4 Justices [Chief Justice Warren E. Burger, and Justices Harry Blackmun, Lewis F. Powell, Jr., and William H. Rehnquist] Named by [President Richard] Nixon All Dissent in Historic Decision," by Fred P. Graham (June 30, P. 1, P. 14).
Page 1 also has two other major related stories: "Nixon Backs Death Penalty for Kidnapping, Hijacking," by William Robbins (P. 1, P. 14), and "Parole in Capital Offenses Less Likely, Officials Say," by Martin Arnold (P. 1, P. 15)
The Case: Furman v Georgia (408 U.S. 238, 1972). (Wikipedia link to full text and audio of the arguments and opinions.)
There is also a 3 column wide picture of incarcerated African American Elmer Branch with the caption: "SPARED: Elmer Branch, 19, sentenced to die for nonfatal assault, in Huntsville, Tex., jail. He was one of condemned men whose sentences were upset by Supreme Court." (Times photo source: Associated Press).
Eagle Headline: "(Pennsylvania) Governor's (Milton Shapp) Budget Beaten In Senate," (Associated Press, June 30, P. 1)
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Carlton was not at his best, but got the entire job done, an arduous 171 pitch performance. He was overpowering (13 strikeouts) but wild (6 walks and his 3rd wild pitch of the season). But for once the Phillies backed him--9 runs and 17 hits as they won easily, to knock the Mets out of a first place tie with the Pirates. It was also the Phillies first win of the year against the Mets after 7 consecutive losses. Each Phillie hitter had at least one hit, and Carlton joined the party with two, including a two run single that put the Phillies ahead to stay in the 4th inning.
From the perspective of the modern fan, it is almost inconceivable that his manager, Frank Lucchesi, would leave Carlton in a game this long, throwing that number of pitches, when the game had been broken open and he wasn't having one of his best days. But:
"Steve Carlton tamed the Mets on 7 hits and struck out 13, but he had to throw 171 pitches after a shaky start. Still, he preferred the less than masterful victory to some of his well pitched losses.
'It's better to have the win. It doesn't do us any good unless you win. I felt great, but I couldn't find the plate. I warmed up great, but I didn't pitch great.'"
(Reading Eagle).
The Mets' 3,4,5 hitters, Dave Marshall (ripbaseball.com), Jim Fregosi, (acquired in another of the most lopsided trades in MLB history; he was traded in 1971 from the California Angels to the Mets for 4 players, one of whom was Nolan Ryan [H]), and Jim Beauchamp (Wikipedia) went 2-12 with 6 strike outs and 1 RBI. The heart of the National League order is now 45-191 (.236) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 20 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.66 to 2.74.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H)R,8....[1]W*.....[3]W..[4]f(9)..[6]f(8)..(9)Kc
2. B Harrelson B,6.[1]K..[3]f(8)...[4]W.....[7]g(5-3)(9)f(8)
3. D. Marshall L,9..[1]f(5)%.[3]1b(9)[4]K....[7]W...(9)g(1-3)
4. J. Fegosi R,5....[2]1b(8)...[3]K.[5]g(5-3)[7]f(7)
5. J. Beauchamp R,3.[2]K.......[4]K.[5]Kc... [7]K
6. D. Dyer R,2......[2]K.......[4]1b(9)#.[5]f(4)...[8]K
7. T. Martinez R,7..[2]g(4)....[4]1b(9)#.[6]3b(9)..[8]1b(8)
8. W. Garrett L,4...[3]W.......[4]1b(7)..[6]sf(8)..[8]K
9. G. Gentry R,1....[3]sb(2-6).[4]W
9. B. Rauch R, 1
9. T. Agee R,PH..........................[6]Kc
9. B. Capra R,1
9. E. Kranepool L,PH...............................[8]Kc
9. R. Sadecki L,1
*=Mays out trying to steal while Harrelson at bat. 2-4.
%=Marshall fouled out.
#=Carlton threw his 3rd wild pitch of the season while pitching to Garrett. Dyer advanced to 3rd and Martinez to 2nd.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 18 starts (144 1/3 innings, 433 outs) 9 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 159K, 131g, 123f(84 outfield, 39 infield); 3 unkown; 116 Pulled, 61 Up the middle, 80 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 43 Walks (3 intentional), 112 hits (82 1b, 20 2b, 2 3b, 8HR); 7 Errors* 1 hit by pitch; 46 runs (44 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 112-469 (.239) +43 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 39 batters: Actual documented pitch count: 171: Pitch Count Estimate= (39*3.3) + (13*1.5) + (6* 2.2)=161 pitches.
Mets were 7-31 (1 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt, 1 sacrifice fly)
Outs: 27 (9 right handed hitters, 3 left handed hitters)
Outs: 13K, 5g, 8f(2 infield, 6 outfield); 3 Pulled, 6 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
On Base: 6 Walks, 7 hits (7 outfield hits) (6 1b, 1 3b); 1 wild pitch (advanced 2 runners); 1 sacrifice bunt; 1 sacrifice fly
---
Mets right handed hitters: 29 plate appearances: 5-24
Outs: 10K, 4g, 6f(1 infield, 5 outfield); 3 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 3 opposite field outs; 1 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
On Base: 4 Walks; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (4 1b, 1 3b); 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
Mets left handed hitters: 10 plate appearances: 2-7
Outs: 3K, 1g, 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 sacrifice fly
On Base: 2 Walks, 2 hits (2 outfield hits) (2 1b); 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
+++
Start 17
June 25: at Montreal Parc Jarry: Phi 1 Mon 0: Carlton 8-6 (2.66) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ernie McAnally (Wikipedia) (R) 1-9 (3.96).
Carlton pitched his 10th complete game and 3rd shutout, throttling the Expos on 4 hits, walking 3 and striking out 8. He has now struck out 146 in 135 1/3 innings, while receiving 50 runs of support in 17 starts. This relatively quiet game was marred by a bean ball war and two ejections. Carlton's public response to this "war" gives excellent insight into the attitudes about deliberately hitting batters "back in the day."
Ernie McAnally (6'1", 190 lbs, 30-49, 4.03, 1971-1974)
I have been unable to find out anything about McAnally's repertoire or arm angle. His best year, according to the Wikipedia biography, was 1971, when he started the year 1-7 and finished with an 11-12 record.
Phi 000 010 000--1-5-2--(21-38--22-38) 6 E -17.0 g
Mon 000 000 000--0-4-0--(27-33--27-34) 5 E -12.5 g
Time: 2:35; Attendance: 19,355; Sunday Day Game: 2:15pm; Home Plate Umpire: Dick Stello
(retrosheet.org). Stello led the National League in ejections in 1972 with 7, including 2 for balls and strikes. He ejected Expos Manager Gene Mauch and McAnally in this game. Interestingly, Stello (Wikipedia) was married for a time to Liliana Wilczkowska, also known as Chesty Morgan.(Wikipedia)
Weather conditions (Source: Government of Canada Historical Climate Data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00--67F; 3:00--67; 4:00--63; 5:00--62
Wind: 2:00--12MPH (from the NNE); 3:00--16 (NE); 4:00--13 (NE); 5:00--9 (ENE) (Source for Wind Direction--University of Minnesota); Blowing in
Humidity: 2:00--75%; 3:00--73%; 4:00--77%; 5:00--84
2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00-5:00--Rain
Standings at the Close of Play June 25 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Carlton Aiming For Tim Foli's Ribs" (Associated Press compendium of National League game stories for June 25, Hal Bock, June 26, P. 24).
Eagle headline: "City Water System is Pumping: Industrial Ban Lifted on Tuesday: Flood Toll at 122: People Help Others: (United Press International and Christine A. Burger, June 26, P. 1).
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The real story of this game was underlined in the second paragraph of the game story:
"I'm sorry I plunked Foli on the head. I was trying to get him in the ribs, but the ball got away on me."
Steve Carlton.
This quote, which was issued "on the record," gives us a window into the way the game was played in 1972. Of course, they weren't aware of the damage that repeated concussions could cause (there have been news articles about the possibility of the role of concussions in the death of Lou Gehrig [H]--[1] [2]--Cable News Network). Still, Carlton reflects the philosophy of greats like Bob Gibson (H) (see Start #2 below) and Don Drysdale (H).
In the top of the fourth, McAnally hit Phillies 1st Baseman Joe Lis in the back with a pitch.
"He (Mauch) gave the order to hit Lis. You have to retaliate to protect your teammates."
Steve Carlton.
Foli led off the bottom of the 4th and Carlton hit him in the head. Foli [6'0", 179 lbs] "bounced up off the ground and started after Carlton [6'4", 210 lbs], signalling both dugouts to empty with Montreal Manager Gene Mauch leading the charge" (Reading Eagle). Mauch threw a punch at Carlton but missed. At the end of the ensuing brawl, Mauch was thrown out of the game for throwing the first punch. Foli had to leave the game for X-rays (which showed nothing) and Carlton was allowed to continue. In the 5th recently acquired catcher John Bateman (see Start 15 below) produced the game's only run with a home run. Carlton was the next batter up and when McAnally brushed him back he was thrown out of the game. Bateman, who suffered a hyper-extended elbow in the brawl, had to leave the game after his home run.
Carlton had only one difficult inning, the seventh, when a walk, stolen base, single, and another stolen base gave the Expos men on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out. Carlton induced a fly to right, and then struck out the next two batters to end the threat.
The Expos 3,4,5 hitters, Clyde Mashore (Wikipedia), Ron Woods (Wikipedia), and Bob Bailey went 1-10 with 5 strikeouts (Mashore had 2 sacrifice bunts). The heart of the National League order is now 43-179 (.240) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 19 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.85 to 2.66.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Expos batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Expos
1. R. Hunt R,4.......(1)1b(?)..(3)W*......(5)f(1)...(7)K
2. T. Foli R,6.......(1)g(2-6).(4)HBP%
2. H. Torres R,PR,6............(4)PR......(6)?(3)...(8)W
3. C. Mayshore R,9...(1)K......(4)sb(1-4).(6)K.....(8)sb(3-4)
4. R. Woods R,8......(1)K......(4)g(4-3)..(6)1b(7)$.(8)f(6)
5. B. Bailey R,5.....(2)K......(4)g(5-3)..(6)g(5-3).(8)f(L9)
6. K. Singleton B,7..(2)K......(5)f(7)....(7)W@.....(9)K
7. J. Boccabella R,3.(2)f(4)...(5)f(8)....(7)1b(?)@.(9)f(L7)
8. T. Humphrey R,2...(3)g(5-3).(5)1b(?)...(7)f(9)...(9)f(8)
9. E. McAnally R,1...(3)g(5-3)
9. J. Strohmayer R,1
9. T. McCarver L,PH............(5)E(4)
9. T. Walker R,1
9. B. Wine R,PH...........................(7)K
9. M. Marshall R,1
With one out in the Phillies 6th, there was a 46 minute rain delay.
*=Carlton picked Hunt off and he tried to steal. He was then thrown out 1-3-6.
%=Foli hit by pitch, Carlton's 1st hit batter of the season. Brawl ensued, Foli had to leave the game, replaced by pinch runner Torres. Expos Manager Mauch was thrown out of the game for fighting.
$=Woods continued to 2nd on an error by Left Fielder Luzinski.
@=Singleton stole second with Boccabella at bat.
@Boccabella stole second, Singleton remained at 3rd with Humphrey at bat.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 17 starts (135 1/3 innings, 406 outs) 10 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 146K, 126g, 115f(78 outfield, 37 infield); 3 unknown; 113 Pulled, 55 Up the middle, 76 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 6 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 37 Walks (3 intenional) 105 hits (76 1b, 20 2b, 1 3b, 8HR) 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 42 runs (40 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 105-438 (.240) +37 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.05
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (3*2.2)=133 pitches
Expos were 4-28 (2 sacrifice bunts, 1 caught stealing).
Outs: 27 (11 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 8K, 8g, 9f(3 infield, 6 outfield), 1 unkown (infield); 7 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 6 opposite field, 1 caught stealing.
On Base: 3 Walks, 4 hits (4 1b); known hits (1 outfield); known direction (1 pulled); 1 error (infield, pulled); 1 hit by pitch; 2 stolen bases
---
Expos right handed hitters: 34 plate appearances: 4-28
Outs: 8K, 8g, 9f(3 infield, 6 outfield), 1 unkown (infield); 7 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field, 1 caught stealing.
On Base: 3 walks; 4 hits (4 1b); known hits (1 outfield); known direction (1 pulled); 1 hit by pitch, 2 stolen bases.
Expos left handed hitters: 1 plate appearance 0-1
Outs: none
On Base: 1; 1 error (infield, pulled)
+++
Start 16
June 21: at Atlanta Stadium (the stadium wasn't renamed Atlanta Fulton-County Stadium until 1975--Wikipedia): Phi 9 Atl 7: Carlton 7-6 (2.85) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ron Reed (Wikipedia) (R) 5-7 (3.87) Ron Reed in action (7th inning, Game 5, 1980 NLCS v Astros)
With the Phillies mired in a 6 game losing streak, Carlton attempted, for the 2nd straight start, to stop the slide. In his 5 innings, he received 4 runs (on 7 hits, including 2 home runs in a 3 run 2nd inning). But he couldn't hold the lead and was knocked around for 9 hits and 5 runs (walking 1 and striking out 4) before being asked not to return for the 6th inning. The Phillies did break the losing streak, coming up with 2 runs in the 9th to win 9-7, in an ugly game. Carlton has now struck out 128 in 126 1/3 innings. He has received 49 runs of support in 16 starts.
Ron Reed's Repertoire (6'6", 215 lbs, 146-140, 3.46, 103 saves, 1966-1984). Note Reed also played for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA from 1965-67. Interestingly, he played under Player-Coach Dave DeBusschere, another 2 sport professional.
As a starter: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Slip Pitch (forkball, palm ball, any pitch thrown with a normal motion where the ball "slips" out of the hand).
As a reliever: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"The last kid I saw coming up with so many pitches was Juan Marichal (H). Most kids have one or two pitches when they come up, but Reed had several. And he can control all of them. In that respect he reminds me of Robin Roberts (H), although he doesn't have Roberts' fastball."
Henry Aaron (H) (NJ, P. 354).
Arm angle: three quarters.
Phi 030 102 102--9-15-1--(20-36--21-36) 6 E -15.0 g
Atl 101 122 000--7-11-2--(27-29--27-30) 4 W -8.0 g
Time: 2:52; Attendance: 10,195; Wednesday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Jerry Dale
(retrosheet.org) (0 ejections in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--77F; 29:00--73; 10:00--71; 11:00--69
Wind: 8:00--17MPH (from the WNW); 9:00--14 (WNW); 10:00--9 (WNW); 11:00--9 (WNW); Blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--46%; 9:00--53%; 10:00--53%; 11:00--57
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 21 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Phils Comeback Pleases (Manager Frank) Lucchesi" (by David Moffitt--United Press International, June 22, P. 50)
Eagle headline: Flood Emergency Is Declared: Floods Hit Wide Areas--Close Roads" (by Christine A. Burger (June 22, P. 1)
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The Phillies had two days off due to Hurricane Agnes. When they played Atlanta last evening they were mired in another losing streak, this one in its 6th game, including two losses to the Astros by a combined score of 20-5. In fact their last win came against this same team and the same starter (See Start 14 below). Overall they have lost 26 of their last 31, with losing streaks of 10, 9, and 6. For the second time this season, (see Start 11 below for the 1st), Carlton had a bad outing. Despite being presented with a 2 run lead during a 3 run second inning highlighted by a solo home run off the bat of Willie Montanez and a 2 run home run by recently acquired John Bateman (see Start 15 below), Carlton was unable to go past the 5th inning, giving up runs in all but the second and leaving after five with a 5-4 deficit. It was a wild but entertaining game with 5 lead changes. Runs were scored in every inning but the 8th. And it was not the most aesthetically pleasing game of the season.
"Hank Aaron (H) made two errors in one inning in right field, Philadelphia pinch runner Ken Reynolds (retrosheet.org) fell flat on his face rounding 3rd base, Larry Bowa was fined $100 when his helmet 'slipped' after an argument with [2nd base] Umpire Chris Pelekoudas (retrosheet.org), and Ralph Garr's slide home ended three feet from the plate."
Reading Eagle
This game was interesting in that Atlanta's 1,2,3 hitters (Felix Millan, Ralph Garr, and Henry Arron [H]), were 7-8 with a double and 2 RBI.
Carlton gave up a run in the first on three singles, a run in the third on 2 singles and a sacrifice fly, a run in the fourth on an Orlando Cepeda (H) home run, and 2 in the fifth on a double, 2 singles, and a sacrifice fly. He left after the inning and it was a great relief job by Darrell (Bucky) Brandon (3 2/3 innings no hits, 2 walks 3 strikeouts,) that allowed the Phillies to finally win with 2 runs in the 9th, aided by 3 walks. Mike Ryan then doubled in the winning runs.
Atlanta's 3,4,5 hitters, Henry Aaron (H), Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, went 3-10 with 4 RBI against Carlton. The heart of the National League order is now 42-169 (.249) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 19 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.60 to 2.85.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Atlanta
1. F. Millan R,4.....(1)1b(?)..(3)1b(?)..(5)2b(?)
2. R. Garr L,8.......(1)f(L7)..(3)1b(?)..(5)1b(?)
2. S. Jackson L,8
3. H. Aaron(H) R,9...(1)1b(?)..(3)sf(8)..(5)1b(?)
4. R. Carty R,7......(1)1b(?)..(3)f(9)...(5)W
4. R. Gilbreath PR
5. E. Williams R,5...(1)K......(3)g(6-3).(5)sf(9)
6 O. Cepeda(H) R,3..(1)K......(4)HR(?)..(5)g(1-3)
7. P. Casanova R,2...(2)g(6-3).(4)K......(5)f(6)
8. M. Perez R,6......(2)g(5-3).(4)f(8)
9. R. Reed R,1.......(2)g(4-3)..(4)K
9. G. Stone L,1
9. C. Upshaw R,1
For Carlton
Cumulative through 16 starts (126 1/3 innings, 379 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 138K, 118g, 106f(72 outfield, 34 infield) 2 unkown; 106 Pulled, 50 Up the Middle, 70 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 5 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 34 Walks (3 intentional); 101 hits (72 1b, 20 2b, 1 3b, 8HR) 6 Errors*; 42 runs (40 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 101-410 (.246) +34 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 25 batters (5 innings). Estimated Pitch Count: (25*3.3) + (4*1.5) + (1*2.2)=85 pitches
Atlanta was 9-22
Outs: 15 (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs 4K, 5g, 6f (1 infield, 5 outfield); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field) 2 sacrifice flies
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (7 1b, 1 2b, 1HR); Known hits (2 outfield); Known direction of hits (0)
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: 22 plate appearances; 7-19
Outs: 4K, 5g, 5f(1 infield, 4 outfield); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
2 sacrifice flies
On Base: 1 Walk, 7 hits (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 HR), Known hits (2 outfield); Known direction of hits (0)
Atlanta left handed hitter: 3 plate appearances: 2-3
Outs 1f(1 outfield)
On base 2 hits (2 1b)
+++
Start 15
June 16: at Houston Astrodome: Hou 1 Phi 0 (11 innnigs): Carlton 7-6 (2.60) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Wilson (R) 4-5 (3.09) Don Wilson in action (1971 All Star Game)
Carlton pitched 10 innings of shutout ball, giving up 6 hits (5 singles and a double) and striking out 12. Unfortunately, the Phillies were shut out also and Carlton didn't get a decision. He now has 134 strikeouts in 121 1/3 innings. He has received 44 runs of support in 15 starts. For the first 10 innings the Phillies had 9 hits and 3 walks. They left 6 men on base in the last 3 innings and 13 for the game.
Don Wilson's Repertoire: (6'2", 195 lbs, 104-92, 3.15, 2 saves, 1966-1974).
1. Fastball; 2. Hard Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Changeup.
"Wilson had many spectacular games in his career--two no-hitters, an 18 strikeout effort, other great games. In most of his best games, Wilson threw nothing or almost nothing but fastballs. His fastball was fast, about 93, and it had fantastic movement--sometimes diving, sometimes sailing, sometimes breaking sharply out on a right-handed hitter. When his fastball was moving, he just aimed for the middle of the plate... Although he experimented with a curve and changeup from 1967 until his death (1975), neither of these pitches ever amounted to much. He did have to rely on off-speed pitches in 1970, when he had arm trouble, and did surprisingly well" (11-6, 3.91). (NJ, P. 428-429).
Arm angle: three quarters
Phi 000 000 000 00--0-11-0 (20-33--20-34) 6 E -15.5 g
Hou 000 000 000 01--1--7-0 (31-23--32-23) T2 W -2.5 g
Time: 2:51; Attendance: 14,891; Friday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Bruce Froemming (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather Conditions: Inside
Standings at the Close of Play June 16 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Reading Eagle: "(Jim) Wynn's Second Explosion Atones For First One" (Associated Press compendium of all National League Games, by Hal Bock, June 17, P. 6).
Eagle headline. "Pilot Strike Curb Sought" (Associated Press, June 17, P.1)
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Carlton pitched an excellent game for 10 innings but got no support from his offense. He was lifted for a pinch hitter in the top of the 11th and then replaced by Dick Selma. 4 pitches later Jim Wynn (aka "The Toy Cannon") hit one into the left field seats to end the proceedings. That Wynn was still in the game at that point was commented on in the game story, as he had a run in with Home Plate umpire Bruce Froemming on a called third strike 7 innings before. Wynn dropped his bat on home plate and threw his helmet. Froemming pointed at him but did not eject him, only indicating a $100 fine.
For Carlton, it was the usual story, only amplified this time. The Phillies left 11 men on base during his 10 innings. They had runners in scoring position in each of their last 3 at bats. Carlton was in real trouble only once, when he left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th by inducing a fly ball to center by Tommy Helms. He had allowed the Astros 3 men left on base in total for the first 8 innings.
The Astros 3,4,5 batters (Wynn, Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) went 2-12 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 39-159 (.245) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.83 to 2.60.
Parenthetically, on June 14 the Phillies traded Tim McCarver, their regular catcher, to Montreal in a straight up deal for the Expos John Bateman (who was the Houston Colt .45s first regular catcher). After his retirement in 1973 he played fast pitch softball in Texas and was Eddie Feigner's catcher for "The King and His Court", a traveling fast pitch softball team that used only 4 players. McCarver would come back to Philadelphia and be part of their division winning teams from 1976-78. During that time, he was Carlton's personal catcher. He retired shortly into their World Championship 1980 season.
In this game Bateman's arm (recognized as one of the best in the National League), was tested twice. He threw both runners out.
"I thought I was a little weak. The last two innings, I had to reach back for that something extra and that takes a little out of you."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)1b(?)*.(3)f(L7)..(6)K......(8)K....(10)K
2. C. Cedeno R,8.(1)K.......(4)f(L6)..(6)1b(9)*.(9)2b(?)(10)g(4-3)
3. J. Wynn R,9....(1)g(6-3).(4)Kc.....(7)1b(7)..(9)IW
4. L. May R,3.....(2)f(5)...(4)g(5-3).(7)K......(9)K
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)g(5-3).(5)g(5-3).(7)f(9)...(9)f(L7)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)K......(5)W......(7)W......(9)W
7, T. Helms R,4...(3)1b(?)..(5)f(8)...(7)?(2)...(9)f(8)
8. L. Howard R,2..(3)g(4-3).(5)K......(8)f(9)...(10)1b(8)#
9. D. Wilson R,1..(3)K......(6)K
9. T. Griffin R,1.....................(8)K......(10)sb(3-4)
*=Metzger was caught stealing 2-4 during Cedeno's at bat.
*=Cedeno was caught stealing 2-4.
#=Carlton balked Howard to second during Griffith's at bat, Carlton's 2nd balk of the season.
For Carlton:
Cumulative through 15 starts (121 1/3 innings, 364 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 134K, 113g, 100f(67 outfield, 33 infield) 2 unkown; 102 Pulled, 47 Up the middle, 66 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 5 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 33 Walks (3 intentional); 92 hits (65 1b, 19 2b, 1 3b, 7HR) 6 Errors*, 37 runs (35 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 92-388 (.237) +33 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 38 batters (10 innings, but not a complete game): Pitch Count Estimate (38*3.3) + (12*1.5) + (4*2.2)=152 pitches
Astros were 6-33
Outs: 27 (9 right handers, 1 both) 2 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
Outs 12K, 6g, 8f(2 infield, 6 outfield) 1 unknown; 8 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field ; 2 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
On Base: 4 Walks (1 intentional); 6 hits (5 1b, 1 2b): Known hits (3 outfield, 0 infield); Known direction: 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field.
+++
Start 14:
June 11: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 3 Atl 1: Carlton 7-6 (2.83) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ron Reed (Wikipedia) (R) 4-7 (4:02) Ron Reed in action (7th inning, Game 5, 1980 NLCS v Astros)
Carlton pitched his 8th complete game and got his record back over .500. He walked 1, struck out 9, and spaced 9 hits. He received his usual quota of 3 runs of support. He now has 122 strikeouts in 111 1/3 innings. It was the Phillies 4th win in their last 5 games, their modest 3 game winning streak being snapped by a 15-3 thrashing the night before. This was the first of a long series of wins that came after Phillies losses or ended Phillies losing streaks. In this way, he was one of the greatest "stoppers" in baseball history in 1972.
Ron Reed's Repertoire (6'6", 215 lbs, 146-140, 3.46, 103 saves, 1966-1984). Note Reed also played for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA from 1965-67. Interestingly, he played under Player-Coach Dave DeBusschere, another 2 sport professional.
As a starter: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Slip Pitch (forkball, palm ball, any pitch thrown with a normal motion where the ball "slips" out of the hand).
As a reliever: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"The last kid I saw coming up with so many pitches was Juan Marichal (H). Most kids have one or two pitches when they come up, but Reed had several. And he can control all of them. In that respect he reminds me of Robin Roberts (H), although he doesn't have Roberts' fastball."
Henry Aaron (H) (NJ, P. 354).
Arm angle: three quarters
Atl 000 000 100--1-9-0 (23-25--23-26)--4 W -7.5 g
Phi 000 210 00x--3-5-0 (19-30--20-30)--6 E -13.0 g
Time: 1:51; Attendance: 32,648; Sunday Day Game: 1:30pm. Home Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--62F; 2:00--65; 3:00--67
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the NW); 2:00--16 (WNW); 3:00--8 (NW); Blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--39%; 2:00--37%; 3:00--34%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 11 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
Reading Eagle: "Reds Excel On Road: Hike Lead Over L.A." (compendium of National League game stories by Ken Rappoport, Associated Press, June 12, P. 22). Note: type in "22" as the page number and then scan to the story. Unfortunately, this page was not linked story by story.
Reading Eagle: "Phillies May Get New Faces" (United Press International, June 12, P. 27) (this links directly to the article).
Eagle headline: "Flood Toll (Rapid City, South Dakota) Rising" (Associated Press, June 12, P. 1)
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Coming off a 15-3 home shellacking on Saturday night which broke a modest 3 game winning streak, the Phillies (19-30) were looking for a stopper. And Carlton did the job. Though not at his most dominant (Atlanta had base runners in 7 of the 9 innings and peppered him for 9 hits--8 of which were singles), Carlton met every challenge and kept them off the scoreboard with one exception. A Paul Casanova double and Felix Millan single gave them their only run in the 7th. By that time the Phillies had 3. They got 2 in the 4th on a walk, a single, a wild pitch, and another single and 1 in the 5th on a walk, a sacrifice bunt (by Carlton), a single, and a sacrifice fly. The only real trouble Carlton had was in the above mentioned 7th. With Millan aboard and 2 outs Ralph Garr, the potential tying run, stepped to the plate. Carlton induced a ground ball to end the inning. Carlton got off to his usual fast start, striking out 4 of 5 in in the 2nd and 3rd (including 2 with 2 men on to finish the 2nd), but spaced the rest of his strikeouts. It was a very efficient performance against a hard hitting team, as he polished the win off in less than 2 hours. Atlanta's 3,4,5 hitters, Henry Aaron (H), Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, went 3-11 with 3 strikeouts. 2 of the 3 hits were infield singles by Aaron. The heart of the National League order is now 37-147 (,252) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.99 to 2.83.
"The key was keeping the first two batters off base [2-8]. You know, with guys like Hank Aaron, Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, they are going to get their hits."
Steve Carlton.
On Saturday night, June 6, Henry Aaron (H) hit his 648th career home run of the Phillies Wayne Twitchell. It moved him past Willie Mays (H) into second place on the all time list behind Babe Ruth's 714. (Chicago Tribune [proprietary]). Added July 21, 2020
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Atlanta
1. F. Millan R,4...(1)f(9)...(3)1b(7)..(5)f(4)....(7)1b(7)
2. R. Garr L,9.....(1)g(6-3).(3)f(7)...(5)g(1-3)..(7)g(4-6)
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3.(1)f(5)...(3)1b(5)..(6)Kc......(8)1b(5)
4. R. Carty R,7....(2)W......(3)g(4-6).(6)1b(8).(8)gDP(5-4-3)
5. E. Williams R,5.(2)K......(4)g(6-3).(6)g(5-4)*.(8)K
6. M. Lum L,8......(2)1b(8)..(4)K......(6)g(4-3)..(9)g(6-3)
7. P. Casanova R,2.(2)K......(4)1b(8)..(7)2b(7)...(9)1b(7
8. M. Perez R,6....(2)K......(4)f(8)...(7)K.......(9)gDP(4-3)
9. R. Reed R,1.....(3)K......(5)g(4-3)
9. O. Cepeda(H) PH.....................(7)K
9. M. McQueen L,1
*=Carlton threw a wild pitch (2nd this season), allowing Williams to move to 2nd
Start 13:
June 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 3 Hou 1: Carlton 6-6 (2.99) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Reuss (L) 3-5 (4.45) Jerry Reuss in action (final 3 outs of his no-hitter v Giants June 27, 1980) (Jerry Reuss Youtube).
Carlton pitched 7 innings of 5 hit ball, giving up 1 run and striking out 11 while walking 3, as the Phillies broke their 9 game losing streak. He now has 113 strikeouts in 102 1/3 innings. He has received 39 runs of support in 13 starts. It was his first win since May 7. In that stretch he was 0-5 with 1 no decision. On May 7 the Phillies were 13-7 and within .17 points of first place in the National League East. This win, the Phillies' 2nd in the last 21 games. boosted them to 17-29, 1 1/2 games behind 5th place St. Louis and 15 games out of 1st place in the NL East. Their season lay in ruins. Carlton's season was just beginning.
Jerry Reuss' Repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 220-191, 11 saves, 1969-1990).
1. "Key Pitch" until the mid 1980s: Fastball
"I'll bet he didn't throw more than two or three curves all day."
Dodger catcher Steve Yeager after Reuss beat the Yankees 2-1 with a complete game 5 hitter (video) to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead in the 1981 World Series (The Sporting News, November 7, 1981 via NJ, P. 356).
"Reuss' fastball was "his bread and butter pitch"..."breaking this far"
Ron Perranoski, Dodgers pitching coach in 1982, ("holding his hands one foot apart") (Gordon Verrell, The Sporting News, September 27, 1982 via NJ, P. 356)
After 3 elbow surgeries in the 1980s
1. Cut or sinking fastball; 2. Slow curve; 3. Changeup.
Arm angle: overhand
Hou 000 000 100--1-6-0--(27-19--27-20)--3 W -1.5 g
Phi 000 003 00x--3-5-2--(16-29--17-29)--6 E -15.0 g
Time: 2:09; Attendance: 10,712; Wednesday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Shag Crawford (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). For more on Crawford see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1: Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--76F; 8:00--74; 9:00--71
Wind: 7:00--16MPH (from the NNW); 8:00--14 (N); 9:00 8 (N); Blowing in
Humidity: 7:00--26%; 8:00--26%; 9:00--26%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
Reading Eagle: "(Tony) Perez Shows Power With Mates on Base" (compendium of MLB game stories by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press, June 8, P. 44, 48 (Col. 1)
Reading Eagle: "Phillies Stop Losing!" (Associated Press, June 8, P. 47)
Reading Eagle: "(Recently appointed General Manager Paul) Owens Eyes Trade to Aid Phillies" (United Press International, June 8, P. 45).
"The key hit is missing. When you leave 55 men on base in a five-game series, outhit the other team, and lose four out of five, well..."
Paul Owens. (Wikipedia).
An obscure ex-pitcher named Dallas Green is named Phillies Farm Director, the job Owens was promoted from. Green would later lead two long time National League bottom feeders (Phillies and Cubs) to heights they had not seen in decades.
Eagle Headline: US Steps Up Air Raids (in North Vietnam) (Associated Press, June 8, P. 1)
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It had to end some time. And Carlton was on the mound when it did. Seven great innings of 5 hit (all singles), 11 strikeout ball (in the first 6 innings he gave up 3 hits and struck out 10) helped to make the one Phillies scoring inning (a 3 run Phillies 6th that featured 2 walks, a successful sacrifice bunt, 2 stolen bases, and clutch hits from Left Fielder Gregg Luzinski and 1st Baseman Deron Johnson) enough to win. It was probably the best offensive inning for the team in the last month. Interestingly, Manager Frank Lucchesi pulled Carlton for a pinch hitter in the 7th after he had given up 1 run in the only inning he allowed multiple hits in. He also walked a batter and threw a wild pitch in the inning. But with the game perhaps on the bases, Carlton got a strike out and a double play to end the threat. Reliever Darryl "Bucky" Brandon (a member of the Red Sox "Impossible Dream" pitching staff in 1967) gave up 1 hit in the last two innings to complete the victory.
The 3,4,5 hitters for the Astros, Cesar Cedeno (Wikipedia), Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) were 1-10 with 5 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 34-136 (.250) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI against Carlton. His earned run average dropped back below 3.00 (2.99). It would never again approach 3.00.
"Tonight I stayed on top. Got my rhythm back and had a real good idea of what I was doing with the ball."
Steve Carlton.
"God, what a difference winning makes."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager.
"STRIKE UP THE BAND"
Sports headline, Philadelphia Inquirer
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)K......(3)(Kc)...(6)f(8)..(7)g(DP-4-6-3)
2. J. Alou R,9....(1)1b(5)*.(3)g(6-3).(6)1b(9)
3. C. Cedeno R,8..(1)f(L6)#.(4)K .....(6)W
4. L. May R.3.....(1)K......(4)K......(6)f(4)
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)W......(4)K......(6)g(6-4)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)K......(5)K......(7)1b(6)@
7. L. Howard R,2..(2)g(1-3).(5)f(2)$..(7)W
8. J. Stewart R,4.(2)f(4)...(5)1b(7)..(7)1b(7)
9. J. Reuss L,1...(3)K......(5)K
9. B. Fenwick R,PH....................(7)K
*=Alou went to second on a throwing error by Don Money
#=Cedeno lined to short after 1st baseman Deron Johnson dropped a foul pop up for an error
$=foul ball
@=Rader advanced to 2nd on a wild pitch with Howard at bat.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 13 starts (102 1/3 innings, 307 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 113K, 95g, 87f(58 outfield, 29 infield) 1 unknown; 88 pulled, 42 Up the middle, 53 Opposite field (1 appeal, 5 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 28 walks (2 intentional); 77 hits (52 1b, 17 2b, 1 3b, 7HR), 6 errors* 36 runs (34 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
+++
Start 12:
June 3: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Cin 6 Phi 5 (10 innings): Carlton 5-6 (3.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Wayne Simpson (R) 2-1 (4.08)
The Phillies lost their 17th in the last 18 games, their 7th in a row. In the last 2 games they have played 27 innings (3 games) and lost both. Carlton got a no decision after giving up 3 runs in the 7th inning, allowing a 2 run home run to Julian Javier (one of only 2 that Javier would hit in the final season of a 13 year career). Carlton gave up double to start the 8th and the bullpen then came in and graphically showed why Manager Frank Lucchesi stuck with Carlton even though he may have been tiring. Carlton has now struck out 102 in 95 1/3 innings. In 12 starts, he has had 36 runs to work with.
Wayne Simpson's Repertoire: (6'3", 220 lbs, 36-31, 4.37, 1970-1977)
1. Four Seam Fastball; 2. Two Seam Fastball; 3. Changeup (Changeup Source: Simpson SABR biography)
Arm angle: Unknown
In his rookie season, 1970, Simpson tore the National League apart, going 13-1 as the Reds began their season 70-30. He threw a 2 hitter on Opening day and a 1 hitter in his 3rd start. After the All-Star break, he tore his rotator cuff, ending his season. Years before rotator cuff surgery, he survived on guile and cortizone. But he was never the same.
"Wayne Simpson wore me out. No one threw harder than he did in 1970."
"I've never seen more explosive stuff."
Johnny Bench, Reds Hall of Fame Catcher during the "Big Red Machine" era.
Cin 000 000 311 1--6-13-0 (25-18--26-18)--2 W -1.5 g
Phi 302 000 000 0--5--7-0 (16-27--16-28)--5 E -15.0 g
Time: 2:52; Attendance: 16,623; Day Game: 2:15pm. Home Plate Umpire: John McSherry (Retrosheet); (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--81F; 3:00--82; 4:00--83; 5:00--83
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (from the WSW); 3:00--12 (WSW); 4:00 12 (SW); 5:00 12 (W) blowing out
2:00-4:00 blowing out; 5:00 across from right to left
Humidity: 2:00--54%; 3:00--52%; 4:00--53%; 5:00--53%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Reds Top Phillies in 10th" (Associated Press, June 4, P. 59).
Reading Eagle: "(John) Quinn out, (Paul) Owens GM (General Manager) of Phillies" (Associated Press, P. 59).
John Quinn (SABR); Paul Owens (Wikipedia)
Eagle Headline: "Air Pirate Reaches Algiers" (Associated Press, June 4, P. 1)
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This was a game where both teams were going in opposite directions. The Reds won their 6th in a row and 8th in 9 games, while the Phillies lost their 17th in the last 18 and 7th in a row. The Reds, completely stifled by Carlton (6 innings, 2 singles, 8 strikeouts), suddenly came alive in the 7th, knocking him around for 4 hits, including 2 home runs (one by Johnny Bench--his 13th of the season and 7th in the last 5 games, at the time tying a National League record set by the Cardinals' "Sunny" Jim Bottomley (H) in 1929) and a double to cut a 5-0 Phillies lead (fashioned by a 3 run home run by 1st Baseman Tommie Hutton with 2 outs in the 1st, and a 2 run triple to right by Shortstop Larry Bowa with 2 outs in the 4th) to 5-3. Carlton left after giving up a lead off double in the 8th inning, and the Phillies' bullpen then poured gasoline on the fire by giving up a run on a triple. That fire was then put out, but they allowed the Reds to tie the game in the 9th on a home run by Center Fielder-3rd Baseman Hal McRae. (Wikipedia). The hero of the night, Julian Javier, won the game with an RBI single in the 10th. He was 3-4 with a home run and 3 RBI. He hit a two run homer off Carlton in the 7th.
For the Phillies, who lost 2-1 in 17 innings to the Reds the night before, this loss was the low point of the season so far. That Carlton lost the magic in the 7th but was allowed to finish the inning and start the next is another indicator of what was expected of starting pitchers in this era. 6 of the last 9 batters he faced got on base, including 2 home runs and 2 doubles. But he still left with a lead and 8 strikeouts for the afternoon. 5 runs of support ended up wasted. The 3,4,5 batters in the Reds' lineup, Johnny Bench (H), Tony Perez (H), and George Foster were 4-11 with 1 home run, 1 double, and 1 RBI. The heart of the National League order is now 33-126 (.262) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. His earned run average topped 3.00 for the first time this season (3.12). After his 6th start, before his losing streak began, it was 1.73.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7.......(1)g(6-3).(3)K......(6)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4..(1)f(8)...(4)f(8)...(6)f(5)*..(8)2b(7)
3. J. Bench(H) R,2...(1)f(L)5..(4)K......(7)HR(?)
4. T. Perez(H) R,5...(2)g(6-3).(4)g(4-3).(7)g(6-3)
5. G. Foster R,9.....(2)1b(8)..(5)K(2-3).(7)2b(?)
6. J. Javier R,5,3,5.(2)K......(5)1b(9)..(7)HR(?)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(2)g(6-4).(5)K......(7)g(6-3)
8. C. Geronimo L,8...(3)K......(5)g(3-1)
8. H. McCrae R,PH,8,5....................(7)1b(?)#
9. W. Simpson R, 1...(3)K
9. D. Chaney B,PH..............(6)K
9. E. Sprague R,1....
9. D. Menke R,PH.........................(7)W
*=foul ball
#=Carlton balked McCrae to 2nd during Menke's at bat. It was his 1st balk of the season.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 12 starts (95 1/3 innings, 286 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 102K, 91g, 82f(57 outfield, 25 infield) 1 unknown; 85 Pulled, 39 Up the middle, 50 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 25 walks (2 intentional); 72 hits (47 1b, 17 2b, 1 3b, 7HR) 6 errors* 35 runs (33 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average. 72-300 (.240) +25 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning pitched=1.02
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 29 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate (29*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=110 pitches.
Reds were 7-28
Outs: 21 (11 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 9g, 4f (2 infield, 2 outfield) 8 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk; 7 hits (3 1b, 2 2b, 2HR); 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 opposite field, 4 unknown
---
Reds right handed hitters: 23 plate appearances: 6-22
Outs: 7K, 8g(6 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field), 1f (1 infield) 1 Pulled, 0 up the middle, 0 opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR), 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field, 4 unknown)
Reds left handed hitters: 6 plate appearances: 1-6
Outs: 1K, 1g(1 Pulled), 3f( 1 infield, 2 outfield), 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Oppsite field
On Base: 1 hit (1 2b) 1 Opposite field
+++
Start 11:
May 30: at New York Shea Stadium: NY 7 Phi 0: Carlton (5-6) (2.95) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jon Matlack (L) (6-0) (1.95) Matlack in action--Game 1 1973 World Series.
Carlton lost his 5th consecutive start, lasting only 4 1/3 innings (his shortest outing so far this season), giving up 6 earned runs on 8 hits as the Phillies lost their 14th in the last 15 games. After breaking a 10 game losing streak with a 12 inning 2-1 win over the Pirates, they have now lost 4 in a row. Carlton has now struck out 94 in 88 1/3 innings.
Jon Matlack's Repertoire: (6'3", 205 lbs, 125-126, 3.18, 3 saves, 1971-1983)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve
Arm angle: three quarters, with a high knee kick.
"There is a much to like about Jon Matlack. He has excellent control, a good breaking pitch, and what ballplayers call a long fastball that moves."
Maury Wills, shortstop, Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Montreal Expos (1959-1972) (Superstars of Baseball, by Bob Broeg, via NJ, P. 296).
Phi 000 000 000--0--3-0--(16-23--16-24) 5 E -13.0 g
NY 202 020 01x--7-11-1--(28-11--29-11) 1 E +4.0 g
Time: 2:14; Attendance: 17,598; Tuesday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (Retrosheet) (Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (partial data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--65F; 11:00--52
Wind: 8:00--9MPH (from the S); 11:00--12 (SSE); blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--84%; 11:00--86%
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 30 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
New York Times (proprietary): "Matlack Of The Mets Subdues Phils 7-0: Staub's 4 for 4 Helps Rookie Notch No. 6," by Leonard Koppett (May 31, P. 47, 49).
Times Headline: "25 Die at Israeli Airport As 3 Gunmen From Plane Fire at 250 In A Terminal: 78 Are Wounded; Attackers Are Identified as Japanese--2 Dead One Captured" (United Press International, May 31, P. 1, P. 27).
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Carlton had by far his worst start of the season, as the Phillies lost their 4th in a row, and 14th in the last 15 games. He was torched by the Mets for 8 hits and 6 earned runs in 4 1/3 innings. Jon Matlack (who would be National League Rookie of the Year in 1972 and start 3 games in the 1973 World Series) was masterful, shutting the Phillies out on 3 hits and running his record to 6-0. Along with Tom Seaver's (H) 7-2 current record, the Mets are off to a blazing start in 1972, leading the Pirates by 4 games. Rusty Staub dominated Carlton with 3 hits (a double and 2 singles) and 4 RBI. Staub, one of the few left handed batters to face Carlton this year, has had remarkable success against lefty pitching to this point, a ".359 average against them, best of any Met, with 15 runs batted in, for 53 at bats". (Koppett). The Mets had 2 hits in the 1st, 2 in the 3rd, and 4 in the 5th before Carlton was taken out of the game. He also walked 3 batters. The loss put Carlton under the .500 mark for the season.
The Mets 3,4,5 hitters, Tommie Agee, Staub, and Cleon Jones, were 5-8 with 5 RBI against him. The National League "heart of the order is now 29-115 (.252, up from .187 and .224 in the last two starts), with 3 home runs (2 solo and one 2 run) and 14 RBI. Carlton's earned run average has gone from 2.22 to 2.45 to 2.95 in his last 3 starts.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H) R,8..(1)K......(3)W.....(4)Kc
2, B. Harrelson B,6(1)W......(3)W.....(5)3b(7)
3. T. Agee R,7.....(1)1b(7)..(3)K.....(5)f(3)*
4. R. Staub L,9....(1)2b(9)..(3)1b(9).(5)1b(7)
5. C. Jones R,3....(1)g(1-3).(3)sf(9).(5)1b(7)
6. J.Fregosi R,5...(1)f(8)...(3)f(7)..(5)1b(7)
7. T. Martinez R,4.(2)g(6-3).(4)1b(7)
8. J. Grote R,2....(2)K......(4)g(4-6)
9. J. Matlack L,1..(2)Kc.....(4)K
*=foul ball
---
For Carlton
Cumulative through 11 starts (88 1/3 innings. 265 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 94K, 82g, 78f(55 outfield, 23 infield) 1 unknown; 77 Pulled, 37 Up the middle, 47 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 24 Walks (2 intentional); 65 hits (44 1b, 15 2b, 1 3b, 5HR) 6 errors *, 31 runs (29 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total opposing batting average: 65-272 (.239) +24 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Innings Pitched)=1.01
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 24 batters (4 1/3 innings). Pitch Count Estimate: (24*3.3) + 6*1.5) + (3*2.2)=95 pitches.
Start 10:
May 26: at Pittsburgh Three Rivers Stadium: Pit 6 Phi 4: Carlton (5-5) (2.46) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Nelson Briles (R) (3-1) (4.50) Briles in action--MLB Youtube.
Carlton lost his 4th straight start as the Phillies losing streak increased to 10. The Phillies gave him generous run support (4, though 3 were unearned). In 10 starts they have scored 31 runs. He has now struck out 88 in 84 innings. The defense failed him again (though his line doesn't really show it), allowing another run to score on a double error on one play (see Start 7 below).
Nelson Briles' Repertoire: (5'11", 195 lbs, 129-112, 3.43, 22 saves, 1965-1978) 1. Sinking Fastball; 2. Overhand curve; 3. Changeup ("ineffective")
Arm angle: three quarters and overhand.
"Briles, who occasionally falls on the mound because of the effort he puts into his delivery, has caused alarm among Royals fans, but his knee has held up" (Joe McGuff, The Sporting News, via NJ, P. 144).
Phi 000 200 200--4--9-4(15-19--15-20)5th East -10.5 g
Pit 200 200 11x--6-13-4(20-13--21-13)2nd East -4.0 g
Time: 2:35; Attendance: 25,164; Friday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (Retrosheet) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--67F; 9:00--62; 10:00--60; 11:00--55
Wind: 8:00--12MPH (from the ESE); 9:00--10 (SE); 10:00--8 (ESE); 11:00--12 (ESE); blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--21%; 9:00--24%; 10:00--38%; 11:00--37%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 26 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories: Note for all stories except the Pittsburgh Press Headline, link is to P. 1. Scroll or type in page number for baseball stories.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Bucs Survive Errors, Phils Don't, 6-4", by Charlie Feeney (May 27, P. 8-9 [P. 5 of the electronic copy])
Pittsburgh Press: "Phil Gets Wrong Number Again-4 (Bucs get 6)", by Dan Donovan (May 27, P. 6 [P. 4 of the electronic copy])
Post-Gazette Headline: "Pact on Nuclear Arms Signed by Nixon, Brezhnev" (Associated Press, May 27, P. 1)
Press Headline: "Sennate Treaty OK Expected: U.S., Russia Agree On Nuclear Curb," by Ted Knap (May 27, P 1.)
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The Phillies played as badly as their 10 game losing streak indicated. It got so bad that when they tried to call the bullpen, they called the press box instead. Carlton lasted 7 innings, long enough to see his defense implode behind him for the second time in his last 4 starts. After the Phillies tied the score (for the second time) at 4 in the top of the 7th inning with 2 unearned runs due to an error by center fielder Al Oliver, the Pirates came right back to take the lead in their next at bat, (just as they had in the 4th inning) in Carlton's last inning. Two singles sandwiched around Carlton's 4th walk (his highest number of walks in a game this season--though 1 was intentional) produced their final lead. They added an insurance run in the 8th.
The Phillies gifted the Pirates a run in the 1st inning by committing 2 errors (1 earned run). Then in the 4th, Carlton caught Gene Clines (Wikipedia) leaning from first, but 1st baseman Deron Johnson's thow to second went into left field (Clines was credited with a stolen base). Clines took 3rd. When Gregg Luzinski bobbled the ball, Clines scored on the second error. (Both newspaper articles show different parts of the play). It was the second time in Carlton's last 4 starts that the opposition scored a run because of two errors on the same play. The game was poorly played by both sides. They committed 4 errors apiece. There were also 7 walks in the game, as well as 21 men left on the bases. Nelson Briles out pitched Carlton striking out 9 and walking 3. Carlton was perhaps tiring in the crucial 7th inning, as he was beaten by the 7th and 8th hitters in the Pirates order.
For the 1st time this season, the 3,4,5 hitters of an opposing team (Roberto Clemente [H], Manny Sanguillen, and Jose Pagan) had great success against Carlton, going 6-11 with 3 runs scored and 2 batted in. The outburst raised the National League heart of the order batting average to .224 (24-107), up from .187 after his last start. The NL "heart" remains at 3 home runs (2 solo and 1 two run), and now has 9 RBI against Carlton. His earned run average increased from 2.22 to 2.45.
"Carlton was as tough as I've seen him. The breaking pitches he threw at me were tremendous.
Dave Cash (Wikipedia), Pirates 2nd baseman. In this game his triple in the 8th inning stretched his hitting streak to 19 games, best so far in MLB this year. His 1-5 night dropped his overall batting average 5 points, to .309.
"This is a tough infield to play. It's as hard as a rock and the Pirates did hit the ball hard."
Steve Carlton
"I've been around too long. Nothing gets me down. After an error, you have to try and get the next batter out. You can't bring back the last one."
Steve Carlton
"It's got to upset him a little bit. Steve's not the type of guy who's going to badmouth his fellow players."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager.
"Is this the bullpen?"
Ray Rippelmeyer (Wikipedia), Phillies pitching coach, in the 1st inning, after accidentally calling the press box.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Pirates' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Pirates
1. D. Cash R,4.......(1)K......(2)g(5-3).(4)K......(6)K
2. G. Clines R,7.....(1)1b*(?).(2)1b(7)..(4)1b(8)$.(6)K
3. R. Clemente(H) R,9(1)2b(7)..(2)1b(8)..(4)2b(7)..(6)g(4-3)
4. M. Sanguillen R,2.(1)W+.....(2)g(4-6).(4)2b(6)..(7)g(6-3)
5. J. Pagan R,6......(1)g(E5)..(3)2b(7)..(4)Kc.....(7)1b(5)
6. A. Oliver L,8.....(1)sf(8)%.(3)g(4-3).(4)f(7)...(7)g(5-3)
7. B. Robertson R,3..(1)W......(3)W......(5)K......(7)W
8. G. Alley R,6......(1)g(6-4).(3)K......(5)f(9)...(7)1b(78)
9. N. Briles R,1.....(2)K......(3)Kc.....(5)f(4)...(7)f(4)
*=Infield hit
+=Intentional Walk
%=Before the sacrifice fly, Oliver popped to foul territory outside of 1st base and the catch was dropped by Johnson.
$=Clines was caught leaning and went for 2nd as Carlton threw to first. Clines was credited with a stolen base when Johnson threw the ball into left field. Clines continued to third and when Luzinski bobbled the ball, Clines scored. The Press article is accompanied by a two photo essay of parts of the play. The Post Gazette article has a photo of another aspect of the play.
---
For Carlton
Cumulative through 10 starts (84 innings, 252 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 88K, 79g, 74f (52 outfield, 22 infield) 1 unkown; 75 pulled, 35 up the middle, 44 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 21 Walks (2 intentional) 57 hits (38 1b, 14 2b, 5HR), 6 errors*, 25 runs (23 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 57-252 (.226) +21 walks (2 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.93
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 36 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (36*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (4*2.2)=141 pitches.
Pirates were 10-30
Outs: 21: (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 9K, 7g, 5f (2 infield, 3 outfield); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 7 Opposite field)
On Base: 4 Walks (1 Intentional), 10 hits (6 1b, 4 2b); 7 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown
---
Pirates right handed hitters: 32 plate appearances: 10-28
Outs: 9K, 5g (3 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field) 3f (2 infield, 1 outfield) (0 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field)
On base: 4 Walks (1 intentional) 10 hits (1 infield, 8 outfield, 1 unknown) (6 1b, 4 2b); 7 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown), 1 error
Pirates left handed batters. 4 plate appearances: 0-3
Outs: 2g (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field) 2f (2 outfield); 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
On base: 0
+++
Start 9:
May 21: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: NY 4 Phi 3: Carlton (5-4) (2.22) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Tom Seaver (H) (R) (7-1) (2.44) Seaver in action--Hall of Fame Youtube.
This was Carlton's 7th complete game. And his 3rd consecutive loss. The Phillies scored 3 times. He has now received 27 runs from his offense in 9 starts, 2 of which accounted for 14 of those runs. He has struck out 79 in 77 innings. Willie Mays (H), recently traded from the Giants after 20 years of service, beat him almost single-handedly today.
Tom Seaver's Repertoire: (6'1", 195 lbs, 311-205, 2.86, 1 save, 1967-1986)
1. Rising (4 seam) fastball; 2. Sinking (2 seam) fastball; 3. Slider, 4. Curve, 5. Changeup
Arm Angle: three-quarters. Seaver had a motion that, in my opinion, is a work of art.
"I've got 4 pitches--fast ball, curve ball, slider and changeup--but I've got a couple of different kinds of fast balls and three different curve balls and a slider and two change-ups. So it's seven or eight pitches that I have, though there are only four different signals for them. I might show four different kinds of curve ball."
Tom Seaver: (Inside Corner Talks with Tom Seaver, edited by Joel H. Cohen, via NJ, P. 379)
NY 000 002 020--4-6-1 (24-7--25-7) 1st East +6.0 g
Phi 100 200 000--3-8-0(15-15--15-16)4th East -9.5 g
Time: 2:02; Attendance: 57,267 (at the time, the 2nd largest regular season day game crowd in National League history, behind 78,672 at the LA Coliseum for a Dodgers Home Opener--1st MLB game ever played at Los Angeles--v Giants on April 18, 1958 (NY Times). Sunday Day Game: 1:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--67F; 2:00--69; 3:00--72
Wind: 1:00--10MPH (from the NE); 2:00--9 (NNE); 3:00--10 (ESE);
1:00--blowing in; 2:00--blowing in; 3:00--blowing out;
Humidity: 1:00--79%; 2:00--75%; 3:00--71%;
1::00--Cloudy; 2:00--Cloudy; 3:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 21 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
New York Times (proprietary): "Mets Capture 11th Straight 4-3 on Mays's 2-run Homer in 8th: Carlton of Phils Yields 1st Hit in 6th Inning", by Al Harvin (May 22, P. 47).
Times Headline: [Secretary of State Henry] Kissinger Asserts War Won't Impair Summit Meeting: In Salzburg [Austria], He Talks With Newsman as [President Richard] Nixon Meets With Chancellor [Bruno Kreisky] of Austria: Off to Moscow Today; President's Adviser States Soviet [Union] Was Not Warned of Vietnam Mining Plan", by Robert B. Semple, Jr. (May 22, P. 1).
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This game was a tale of two cities moving in opposite directions. The Mets won their 11th game in a row--their longest winning streak of the season, moving 18 games over the .500 mark, and leading the Eastern Division by 6 games. The highest they would get all season would be 19 and 6.5. The latter two figures took place on June 6 and May 20 respectively (Baseballreference.com). The Phillies were sliding down, down, down, losing their 6th consecutive game during a 10 game losing streak followed, after one win, by a 9 game losing streak, dropping them from 15-10 to 16-29.
This game was also part of an extended "coming out" party for the great Willie Mays (H), 41, who joined the Mets on May 11 after being traded for journeyman pitcher Charlie Williams (Wikipedia) and $50,000. Since joining the Mets, Mays has played in 4 games and been instrumental in 4 wins.
"...a home run against his ex-teammates last Sunday [May 14] in the Mets' 5-4 victory; slid into the catcher, dislodging the ball in the Mets' 2-1 victory over Montreal on Thursday [May 18], and scored a run and knocked in another in the Mets' 3-1 first game victory over Philadelphia last night [May 20]."
Al Harvin--New York Times
But that was just prologue to what he did today. In front of over 57,000 fans on a Sunday afternoon (spiced by a "Bat Day" promotion--remember those?) :) (the game story said about 3,000 people were turned away), Carlton started out like a house on fire. He was most likely well aware of the run support he could expect against red hot Tom Seaver (H). Carlton had a no-hit game through 5 innings, including 7 of his 9 strikeouts for the day. But Mays led off the 6th with a double to center and was knocked in by a home run off the bat of Tommie Agee (one of the heroes of the 1969 World Series). That cut the Phillies' 3-0 lead (built on a Greg Luzinkski RBI single in the first and a 4th inning 2 run home run by Tommie Hutton [Wikipedia]) to 3-2. On Mays' next at bat, with a man on and nobody out in the 8th, he hit Carlton's first pitch off the top of the left field wall and out, giving the Mets the win. For the 2nd start in a row a late lead disappeared and a Phillies defeat resulted.
Carlton, walked 3 and gave up 6 hits in a complete game. The Mets 3,4,5 hitters--Agee, Rusty Staub, and Cleon Jones, were 2-12 against him, with 1 home run (Agee) and 2 runs batted in. For the season the heart of the National League order is now 18-96 (.187) with 3 home runs (two solo, one 2 run) and 7 RBI. His ERA grew from 1.99 to 2.22.
And for the third Carlton start in succession (see below), the Phillies were unable to execute fundamental baseball, which contributed to each loss. In the bottom of the 9th, 3rd baseman Don Money [Wikipedia] (playing the last of his 5 years in Philadelphia before being part of a 7 player trade between the Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers--where he finished his 16 year career as one of the finest defensive players of his era) led off with an infield hit. Ron Stone bunted poorly and the attempted sacrifice turned into a 2-6-4 double play. Shortly thereafter, 57,000, many of them carrying bats, filed quietly out of Veterans Stadium.
"Sure I was involved in the 4 wins. But everybody contributed."
Willie Mays
"I don't think I have to prove anything after 20 years. And I'm not trying to show anybody up. I'm glad to be with the Mets, they have great spirit and they made me relax by welcoming me with open arms."
Willie Mays
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H) R,3...(1)Kc.....(3)f(8)...(6)2b(8)..(8)HR(7)
2. B. Harrelson B,6.(1)K......(4)W......(6)f(8)...(8)f(9)
3. T. Agee R,8......(1)K......(4)g(5-3).(6)HR(?)..(8)g(6-3)
4. R. Staub L,9.....(2)f(7)...(4)f(5)*..(6)f(7)...(8)1b(8)
5. C. Jones R,7.....(2)f(4)...(4)K......(6)K......(8)g(5-3)
6. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)g(5-3).(5)f(7)...(7)g(6-3).(9)g(6-3)
7. T. Martinez R,4..(3)K......(5)g(4-3).(7)K......(9)1b(7)
8. J. Grote R,2.....(3)W......(5)W......(7)f(3)..(9)f(L6-3dp)
9. T. Seaver(H) R,1.(3)K......(5)K
9. J. Beauchamp R,PH....................(8)1b(7)
9. D. Frisella L, 1
*Fouled out
For Carlton
Cumulative through 9 starts (77 innings--231 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 79K, 72g, 69f (49 outfield, 20 infield) 1 unknown; 71 pulled, 34 Up the middle, 37 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 17 Walks (1 intentional) 47 hits (32 1b, 10 2b, 5HR); 3 errors, 20 runs (19 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 47-231 (.203) +17 Walks; WHIP (Walks+ Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.83
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (3*2.2)=136 pitches.
Mets were 6-32
Outs: 27 (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 9K; 7g; 10f (4 infield, 6 outfield); 8 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base 3 Walks, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR) 3 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unkown
Mets right handed batters: 31 plate appearances: 5-26
Outs: 9K; 7g (6 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field);
7f (3 infield, 4 outfield) (1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field); 1 double play
On base: 3 Walks; 5 hits (0 infield, 5 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b, 2HR) (3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown)
Mets left handed hitters: 4 plate appearances: 1-4
Outs: 0K; 0g 3f; (1 infield, 2 outfield) (0 pulled, 0 Up the middle,3 Opposite field)
On base: 0 walks, 1 hit (1 outfield), (1 1b); (0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field).
+++
Start 8:
May 17: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Chi 3 Phi 2: Carlton 5-3 (1.99) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bill Hands (R) (no decision) (2.92). Hands in action--sort of--in a 1977 Old Timer's Game.
This was Carlton's 6th complete game, but he was done in by the usual lack of Phillies offense (24 runs in 8 starts, 16 in the 8 starts--he got 8 runs of support in one), as well as 2 home runs (more than in his 1st 7 starts combined). He now has 70 strikeouts in 68 innings.
Bill Hands' Repertoire: (6'2", 185 lbs)111-110; 3.35; 14 saves; 1965-1975)
1. Sinking Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve
Arm Angle: Judging from the old timers game :) sidearm to three quarter
"When he kicks his left leg high and is about to pounce on the batter, he pauses a second and and his eyes suddenly dart from the plate to his leg, as if he is examining his movements in mid-form. It is then that you realize that his motion is not some spontaneous inspiration, like that of Bob Gibson's, but rather a more conscious, deliberate and disciplined creation." (Pat Jordan, Sport Magazine, via NJ, P. 233).
"His fastball is only average, but he throws a wicked slider."(Major League Baseball, 1971, by Brenda Zanger and Dick Kaplan via NJ, P. 233).
Chi 010 000 101--3-6-1 (12-13--13-13) 4th East -6.5 g
Phi 000 011 000--2-8-1 (15-11--15-12) 2nd East -5.0 g
Time: 2:16; Attendance: 12,528; Wednesday Night Game: 7:30; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F; 8:00--67; 9:00--66; 10:00--64
Wind: 7:00--9MPH (from the N); 8:00--10 (E); 9:00--7 (ESE); 10:00--6 (ENE); 7:00--blowing in; 8:00--across from right to left; 9:00--out; 10:00--in
Humidity: 7:00--73%; 8:00--79%; 9:00--78%; 10:00--84%
7:00--Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 17 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
Chicago Tribune (proprietary): "Cubs Score in 9th, Beat Phils 3-2", by Richard Dozer (May 18, P. C1, C6).
Associated Press via Reading (Pennsylvania) Eagle: Compilation of games of the day, by Bruce Lowitt (May 18, P. 56). Note that below the game stories there is a great action photo of one of the game's pivotal moments (see below).
Tribune Headline: [Correspondent Anthony Lewis] Sees Haiphong Raid Ruins: Reds Report Removal of Port Mines, by Anthony Lewis (May 18, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: "Allies Try To Lift Siege of An Loc" (Associated Press, May 18, P. 1).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
Carlton gave up only 6 hits and struck out 8. However 2 of the hits were home runs by Carmen Fanzone (playing 3rd base in place of Ron Santo) and Jose Cardenal. Cardenal, the hero and then goat of the Opening Day game Carlton pitched in Chicago (see below)--scoring the tying run from 2nd on an infield hit before losing a ball in the sun and dropping it to provide the Phillies with the winning run--put the Cubs ahead 1-0 with a solo homer in the 2nd, sandwiched by 4 strikeouts, and then won the game with a clutch RBI single up the middle with one out in the 9th. It was Cardenal's 18th RBI (a 100 RBI pace at the time--though he couldn't keep it up, but did finish with 70 for the season--the 3rd best RBI season of his 18 year career). Fanzone hit his homer in the 7th, to tie the score at 2.
The Cubs 3,4,5 hitters (Billy Williams (H), Jim Hickman (MLB.com), and Fanzone) were 3-12, with 3 strike outs. Carlton has now held the heart of the National League Order to 16-84 (.190) with 3 solo home runs and 5 RBI). Carlton also walked 3, giving him 14 walks (1 intentional) and 70 strikeouts in 68 innings of work. His ERA went from 1.81 to 1.99.
Between the 2nd and 5th innings he retired 10 Cubs in a row and was never really in trouble until the 9th. Williams opened the inning with a "ringing" (Dozer) double to right center, breaking an 0-11 slump, and went to third when a sacrifice bunt to the left side by Hickman was so good that he beat it out for a single. Williams then made a base running error, getting thrown out at the plate on a ground ball to third base.
"But Williams made an unwise dash to the plate on a grounder by Fanzone to 3rd and was out."
Richard Dozer
However, Cardenal followed with his base hit to score Hickman and that was the ball game.
The Phillies had 8 hits and 4 walks off 4 Cub pitchers. Bill Hands pitched well for 6 2/3 innings, giving up 2 earned runs on 6 hits, walking 3 and striking out 4. The Phillies scored their runs on a single, passed ball, and double in the 5th, and took a short lived lead in the 6th on a Tommy Hutton solo home run. But they left 10 men on the bases.
One of the "little plays" in the game, which might have been a great play or a "bonehead" mistake (neither game story makes a judgement) came in the 5th, right after the Phillies tied the game. With Denny Doyle on second after his game tying double, and no outs, Carlton hit a single to left. Doyle attempted to score and was cut down by "a fine throw" (Dozer) by Williams. Interestingly, both the Dozer story and Retrosheet play by play had the play scored 7-2. However the caption under the Picture in the Eagle had it Williams to Fanzone to catcher Randy Hundley (7-5-2). Either way, one might question the judgement of Doyle trying to score on a hit to the left side with nobody out and the top of the lineup due. As it was, the play cut the heart out of the Phillies rally. A possible error of omission, after the 2 errors of commission in Carlton's last start, has been part of a 2 game losing streak after his magnificent start to the season.
"That was some King of pitcher (sic) we beat out there. He battles you from the minute he walks out there."
Cubs Manager Leo Durocher, discussing Carlton's effort.
"It was a slider, a tough pitch to handle, right at my feet, but I got good wood on it."
Jose Cardenal, discussing his game winning hit. (Both quotes are from the AP compilation in the Eagle.)
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Cubs
1. D. Kessinger B,6.(1)g(6-3).(3)g(6-3)(6)W........(8)K
2. G. Beckert R,4...(1)W......(3)f(9)..(6)g(4-6-3)*(8)f(9)
3. B. Williams(H)L,7(1)Kc.....(4)f(6)..(6)g(4-3)...(9)2b(98)
4. J. Hickman R,3...(1)g(4-6).(4)K.....(7)g(5-3)...(9)1b(5)#
5. C. Fanzone R,5...(2)K......(4)g(5-3)(7)HR(?)....(9)g(5-2)$
6. J. Cardenal R,9..(2)HR(?)..(5)f(4)..(7)f(8).....(9)1b(8)
7. R. Hundley R,2...(2)Kc.....(5)g(5-3)(7)g(6-3)...(9)f(5)
8. R. Monday L,8....(2)Kc.....(5)1b(8).(8)W!.......(9)g(6-4)
9. B. Hands R,1.....(3)K......(5)f(8)
9. J. Pizarro L,1......................(8)K^
9. T. Phoebus R,1
9. D. McGinn L,1
*=double play
!=stole 2nd and went to 3rd on an error by shortstop Bowa
^Struck out on a bunt (foul bunt or missed the pitch)
#=singled on an attempted sacrifice bunt, Williams to 3rd
$=Fielder's choice: Money-McCarver, Williams out at the plate, Hickman to 2nd, Fanzone to 1st
For Carlton
Cumulative through 8 starts (68 innings--204 outs) 6 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 70K; 65g; 59f (43 outfield, 16 infield) 1 unknown; 63 Pulled; 31 Up the middle; 31 Opposite field (1 appeal, 3 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 14 Walks (1 intentional); 41 hits (29 1b, 9 2b, 3HR); 3 errors, 16 runs (15 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average 41-204 (.201) +14 walks; WHIP (Walks +Hits per Inning Pitched=0.81
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (3*2.2)=124 pitches.
Cubs were 6-32
Outs: 27 (7 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K; 11g; 7f (3 infield, 4 outfield); 9 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 7 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base 3 Walks, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR); 1 stolen base
Cubs right handed batters: 27 plate appearances: 4-26
Outs: 6K; 10g (7 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 double play);
6f (2 infield, 4 outfield) (1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field)
On base: 2 Walks; 4 hits (1 infield, 3 outfield) (2 1b, 2HR) (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 unknown)
Cubs left handed hitters: 8 plate appearances: 2-7
Outs: 2K; 2g (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field); 1f; (1 infield) (1 pulled, 0 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field)
On base: 1 walk, 2 hits (2 outfield), (1 1b, 1 2b); (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field) , 1 stolen base
+++
Start 7:
May 13: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: LA 3 Phi 1; Carlton 5-2 (1.83) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Claude Osteen 4-1 (L) (1.27). Osteen in action: (1965 World Series Game 3 final pitch--he shut out the Twins on 4 hits after they had bombed both Drysdale and Koufax in the first two games of the series).
Carlton pitches well, but not well enough, and his throwing error in the 3rd on an Osteen sacrifice bunt leads to a two run, double error "bunt home run" that gives LA the win. Carlton now has 62 strikeouts in 59 innings.
Claude Osteen's Repertoire: (5'11", 160 lbs, 196-195, 3.30, 1 save, 1957-1975)
1. Slider; 2. Sinking Fastball; 3. Curve; 4. Change
Arm angle: Three Quarter (based on the 1 pitch I have seen) :)
"Claude, or 'Gomer' [due to his resemblance to a TV star of the era] as we called him, is a good control pitcher and throws a mean sinker, curve ball, and slider (Phil Regan [one of the excellent closers of the time] autobiography via NJ, P. 330).
"...a tricky fastball that runs in on the left handers and away from the right handers" (Major League Baseball: 1971, by Brenda Zanger and Dick Kaplan, via NJ, P. 330)
LA 002 100 000--3-8-0 (15-10--16-10) 1st West +1.5 g
Phi 000 001 000--1-8-2 (14-9---14-10) 2nd East -2.5 g
Time: 2:27; Attendance: 27,003; Saturday Nigh Game; 7:35pm: Home Plate Umpire: Stan Landes (Retrosheet)
An aside on Landes, because...how can I not?
31 of Landes' 72 Career ejections were arguments over balls and strikes (not necessarily a high percentage, that will have to wait for another blog post). On April 24, 1957, at Crosley Field in Cincinnati:
" [Cub Pitcher] Moe Drabowsky (who would later star in the 1966 World Series) claimed to be struck on the foot by a pitch; [Cub Pitcher] Dick Drott (Wikipedia) brought a wheelchair out to HP to give Drabowsky a ride to 1B; Drott [was] ejected by HP umpire Stan Landes". Later in the same game, Drabowski was replaced by Jackie Cullom (Twins Trivia). Within 5 batters (walk, single, walk, single, walk) Landes also gave Cullom the heave-ho. (Retrosheet). Landes had 1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972, his final year as a MLB umpire.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--72F; 8:00--68; 9:00--63; 10:00--62
Wind: 7:00--12MPH (from the S); 8:00--13 (S); 9:00--13 (SSE); 10:00--10 (SSE); blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--30%; 8:00--28%; 9:00--48%; 10:00--60%
7:00--Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play for the 1957 game
Standings at the Close of Play May 13 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "Osteen 'drives in' All Dodgers' Runs: Beats Phillies 3-1; Home-Run Bunt Play Aids in L.A.'s First Victory over Carlton in Two Years," by Ron Rapoport (May 14, P. C1, C5).
Times Headline: Nixon-[Soviet Premier Leonid] Brezhnev Contact Reported: Move Believed to Have Increased Summit Chances Despite Mining" [of North Vietnamese Harbors by US Forces] (History.net), by Rudy Abramson and David Kraslow (May 14, P. A1).
The article was accompanied by two analyses under the single headline: "Russ Advantages Seen in Mild Response to Haiphong Mining":
"War Situation Appears to Put Time on Side of Moscow", by Robert C. Toth (P. A1, A14).
"Kremlin May Want No More Cuba-Like Crises in Detente Atmosphere", by William L. Ryan (P. A1, A15).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
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Carlton pitched 7 good innings in this game, but fellow lefty Claude Osteen pitched better. This win gave him a record of 4-1 with an ERA of 1.25. Carlton gave up 2 earned runs, ballooning his ERA to 1.83. The Dodgers' 3,4,and 5 hitters were 2-10 against him. After 7 starts, the heart of the National League batting order is 13-72 (raising their average 4 points to .181), with 1 home run and 3 RBI. He struck out future Hall of Famer Frank Robinson twice (but pitched around him with 1 out and a man on first in the 5th).
Carlton really had no one to blame but himself (although the Phillies have now given him 22 runs of support in 7 starts, including his last one--see below--, where they blasted out 8 runs for him). In the 3rd inning. After a lead off single, Osteen came up ...
"with orders to bunt. He did so, to the left of the mound. Carlton fielded the ball, and promptly threw it into right field. [The runner] took off for 3rd, with Osteen in hot pursuit, and when [the Phillie] right fielder threw the ball into the Dodger dugout, the runner scored and Osteen stopped at third." (Game story)
Dodger Manager Walt Alston (H) argued that Osteen had passed 2nd when the ball went into the dugout (meaning he should, by rule, get the next base and the following base), and Home Plate Umpire Landes agreed. In essence, a two run bunt home run. Alston's case took a while to present, as Osteen was standing at 3rd with his jacket on when he was sent home.
"I was one step past second when the ball went into the dugout. I knew I'd be allowed to score, that it was just a matter of time until they made them understand what the rule was."
Claude Osteen
That was all Osteen needed (but he also legitimately batted in the Dodgers' 3rd run with a single in the 4th), as he was able to space 8 hits and 3 walks over 8 1/3 innings for the win. He got his best out to end the 8th. With a man on and two outs, he got left fielder Greg Luzinski (who had batted in the Phillies only run with an RBI double to left in the 6th, and who came into the game with 5 home runs) on a called 3rd strike. It was a perfect change up that completely froze the young slugger. At that point, Osteen was still in the game only because the Dodger bullpen hadn't had enough time to get ready. It was his only strikeout.
"I'll tell you one thing. He made a hell of a pitch on Luzinski."
Walt Alston.
The other point of interest in this game was Steve Garvey's debut at 1st base. He had originally come up as a 3rd baseman. The Dodgers' regular 1st baseman Wes Parker was out sick, and his replacement, young Bill Buckner batted left handed. The last thing Alston wanted against Carlton was a left handed batter, and so that is how Garvey began as a 1st baseman.
For the Phillies and Carlton, it was a foreshadow of bad things to come. The loss dropped them to 14-10. By the time they won for the 17th time, they had lost 29.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Dodgers
1. B. Russell R,6......(1)Kc......(3)2b(7).(4)g(5-3)(6)f(9)
2. M. Mota R,7.........(1)g(5-3)..(3)?(3)^.(5)1b(7).(7)g(6-3)
3. W. Davis L,8........(1)g(4-3)..(3)1b(8)%,(5)f(8).(7)g(3)
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9..(2)K.......(3)K......(5)W....(7)f(9)
5. S. Garvey R,3.......(2)2b(7)...(3)f(9)...(5)g(6-3)
5. B. Buckner L,3
6. B. Grabarkowitz R,5.(2)g(6-3)..(4)1b(7)..(5)g(6-3)
7. C. Cannizzaro R,2...(2)Kc......(4)f(8)...(6)W
8. B. Valentine R,4....(3)1b(7)...(4)f(7)...(6)K
9. C. Osteen L,1.....(3)sb(E1,E9)*(4)1b(9)..(6)K
9. J. Brewer L,1
*Carlton threw the bunt into right field, Mike Anderson (1980 Topps Baseball Card) threw the ball into the Dodger dugout, both Valentine and Osteen scored.
^ Whether Mota's bunt was caught in the air or grounded into an unassisted out is unknown. The runner did not advance.
% Davis stole second. It was the first stolen base against Carlton this season.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 7 starts (59 innings--177 outs) 5 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 62K; 54g; 52f(39 outfield, 13 infield) 1 unknown; 54 pulled; 29 Up the middle; 24 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 11 Walks (1 intentional); 35 hits (26 1b, 8 2b, 1HR), 3 errors, 13 runs, (12 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 35-200=.175 +11 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.78
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 31 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (31*3.3) + (6*1.5) + (2*2.2)=116 pitches.
Dodgers were 7-28
Outs: 21 (7 right handed batters; 2 left handed batters)
6K, 8g, 6f(6 Outfield), 1 unknown; 9 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle, 4 Opposite field
On base: 2 Walks, 7 hits (2 2b, 5 1b), 1 double error that was also a sacrifice bunt. 1 stolen base.
---
Dodger Right Handed Batters: 24 plate appearances: 5-22
Outs: 5K; 6g (6 Pulled); 5f (5 Outfield): (1 Pulled, 1 to Center Field, 3 Opposite Field) 1 unkown (in the infield) (opposite field--bunt--unknown whether caught on the fly or unassisted putout on the ground)
On Base: 2 Walks; 6 hits (2 2b; 4 1b) (5 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite Field)
Dodger Left Handed Batters: 7 plate appearances: 2-6
Outs: 1K; 2g (2 Pulled); 1f (1 to Center Field)
On Base: 2 hits (2 1b) (1 Pulled, 1 Up the Middle); 1 double error on a sacrifice bunt
+++
Start 6:
May 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 8 SF 3; Carlton 5-1 (1.73) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Ron Bryant (L) (Wikipedia) 0-2.
Carlton's 5th complete game. He has now struck out 56 in 52 innings.
Ron Bryant's Repertoire: (6'0", 190 lbs: 57-56, 4.02, 1 save, 1967-1975)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Slider; 4. Change
Arm angle: unknown
"Bryant is not overpowering. He is sneaky fast and his ball tails away from right handed hitters" (Neal Russo, The Sporting News, via NJ, P. 148). He led the National League in wins at 24-12 (3.53) in 1973 (Retrosheet).
SF 000 000 021--3--7-1 (7-14--7-15); 6th West 7.0 gb
Phi 004 020 02x--8-11-0 (12-7--13-7); 2nd East 0.0 gb
Time: 2:20; Attendance: 44,880; Sunday Day Game: 1:35pm. Home Plate Umpire: Bill Williams (2 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--77F; 2:00--79; 3:00--82; 4:00--83
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the SW); 2:00--8 (SSW); 3:00--7 (SSW); 4:00--12 (S); blowing out
Humidity: 1:00--56%; 2:00--52; 3:00--47; 4:00--47
1:00--Mostly Cloudy; 2:00--Cloudy; 3:00--Mostly Cloudy; 4:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play May 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
United Press International via Los Angeles Times (proprietary), "Carlton fans 13, Stops S.F. for 5th win" May 8, 1972, P. E4
Times Headline: "Nixon Sets Stage for Policy Decision: Summons Top Vietnam Advisers; Calls [Secretary of State William P.] Rogers Home From Europe," by Robert C. Toth, P. A1, A13.
Associated Press via Reading (Pennsylvania) Eagle, May 8, P. 26. Composite stories for all National League games that includes a Carlton quote, by Herschel Nissenson.
Eagle Headline: "Hanoi Area Bombed" (Associated Press,) May 8, P. 1
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This game marked the Phillies high water mark for the season. For a short time after their win, they were in 1st place by 1/2 game. But when the Mets won an extra inning game over the Padres (overcoming a 6-0 deficit in the 8th inning), they went back into 1st place by percentage points. The Phillies went in the other direction. But this was a time of high optimism in the City of Brotherly Love, and an enormous crowd of almost 45,000 came out to see their heroes play on a Sunday afternoon.
They were not disappointed. Aided by an error by Giants' rookie left fielder Garry Maddox (Wikipedia), the Phillies scored 4 runs in the 3rd, and then added 2 in the 5th and 8th to give Carlton the best run support he has had all season (he had 13 runs of support in his first 5 starts). Until he tired in the last two innings he was "lights out". The first time through the Giants order he struck out 6. The 6th, Ron Bryant, called out on strikes to end the 3rd inning, was Carlton's 1,000th career strikeout in his 193rd career game, and his 178th start. The 2nd time through the lineup he struck out 4 more. In the first 7 innings he allowed 2 hits and no runs, with 11 strikeouts and 1 walk. He tired in the last two innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits, but by that time the game was long gone. In the 9th he gave up his first home run all season, a solo HR by Bobby Bonds.
This game is an interesting example of how starting pitchers were commonly used during this era, especially a top of the rotation starter. No pitcher in today's game would ever be left in to complete a game like this. There would be too much risk of an injury, and the starter would be removed, most likely after 6 innings (twice through the lineup) or 7 innings at most. In "blowouts" of this era, top line starters commonly finished what they started. In Carlton's case, the last two innings hurt his ERA and he was pretty obviously tiring.
He held the Giants 3,4, and 5 hitters, Ken Henderson, Bonds, and Dave Kingman (Wikipedia) to 3-11 with a walk and 4 strikeouts. Through 6 starts, the heart of the National League batting order is now 11-62 (.177) with 1 home run and 3 rbi's. For the 4th time in 6 starts, every batter Carlton faced was right handed. At 2 hours and 20 minutes, this was Carlton's longest game of the year. 3 games <2 hours; 3 games >1 hour and 59 minutes.
From the game story: "Carlton was surprised he pitched as well as he did, allowing only two hits over the first seven innings.'When I warmed up I didn't feel good. I had that tired sensation. But I had warmed up early, and had a chance to sit down and rest.' "
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air. e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number(s) the number of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (ususally double plays).
Giants
1. C. Speier R,6....(1)K.......(4)g(5-3).(6)f(9)....(8)1b(8)
2. C. Arnold R,5....(1)K.......(4)g(6-3).(7)f(8)....(8)1b(9)^
3. K. Henderson B,8.(1)K.......(4)f(9)...(7)f(8)....(9)f(L1)
4. B. Bonds R,9.....(2)K.......(5)f(5)...(7)1b(7)...(9)HR(?)
5. D. Kingman R,3...(2)1b(7)*..(5)W......(7)K.......(9)K
6. T. Fuentes B,6...(2)f(4)....(5)K......(8)2b(7)...(9)f(L4)
7. G. Maddox R,7....(3)g(6-3)..(5)K......(8)1b(7)
8. F. Healy R,2.....(3)K.......(6)K
8. R. Gibson R,PH,2......................(8)g(1-4-3)
9. R. Bryant B,1....(3)Kc
9. S. Stone R,1
9. B. Williams R,PH............(6)Kc
9. J. Johnson R,1
9. A. Gallagher R,PH.....................(8)K
9. J. Morris R, 1
9. D. McMahon R, 1
*=caught stealing 2-6
^Speier out trying to advance to 3rd on Arnold's 1b(9) 9-4-5
For Carlton
Cumulative through 6 starts (52 innings--156 outs) 5 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 56K; 46g; 46f(33 outfield, 13 infield); 45 pulled; 27 Up the middle; 20 Opposite Field; (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On base: 9 Walks (1 Intentional), 27 hits (21 1b, 5 2b, 1HR), 1 error, 10 runs (10 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 27-179=(.151) +9 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.69
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton Faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (13*1.5) + (1*2.2)=131 pitches.
7-32 (1 caught stealing, 1 thrown out on the bases)
Outs: 27 (12 right handers, 0 left handers)
13 Ks, 4g; 8f(4 outfield, 4 infield); 4 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field (1 caught stealing, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 8
1 walk; 7 hits (1 HR, 1 2b, 5 1b) 4 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field; 1 unknown
+++
Start 5:
May 3: at Los Angeles Dodger Stadium: Phi 5 LA 1; Carlton 4-1 (1.47) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bill Singer (R) 2-2. (Bill Singer in action)
Carlton's 4th complete game. He has now struck out 43 in 43 innings.
Bill Singer's Repertoire: (6'4", 184 lbs: 118-127, 3.39, 2 saves, 1964-1977)
1. Fastball; 2. Spitball; 3. Slider; 4. Sidearm Curve
Arm angle: three quarters
9th inning of Singer's No-Hitter: July 20, 1970 against Phillies: Vin Scully on the call
Phi 000 200 030---5-10-1 (10-6--11-6); 2nd East 1.0 gb
LA 000 010 000---1--6-1 (12-5--12-6); 2nd West 0.0 gb
Time: 2:05; Attendance: 14,314; Wednesday Night Game: 8:00pm; Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (no hourly data from WU), daily data from Ultimate70s.com (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: High: 64F; Low: 55
Wind: 7MPH
Humidity: 80%
Cloudy
Standings at the close of play May 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
,
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "Dodgers Beaten by Carlton Again, Phillies Win 5-1," by Ron Rapoport, May 4, 1972, P. F1, F10.
Times Headline: [South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van] Thieu Fires General in Northern Region: Highly Regarded Mekong Delta Leader Given Hue Defense Task," by George McArthur P. A1, A28.
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Carlton easily won his 4th game in 5 starts, holding the Dodgers to 1 run on 6 hits. He struck out 9 and is now on a 1 strikeout per inning pace. The 3, 4, and 5 Dodger hitters, Willie Davis (Willie Davis: Biography of a Rookie--1 hour video--Archive.org), Frank Robinson (H), and Jim Lefebvre (Baseball Hall of Fame Baseball Card Collection) to 3-11 with 1 walk and 5 strikeouts. He has now held the heart of the National League order to 8-51 (.157) with 2 RBIs. The Dodgers' only run came in the 5th, on a double and a single. With a 2-1 lead in the 6th, he got the first 2 outs, but then, facing the 3 batters above, he gave up singles to Davis and Robinson. In the key at bat of the game, he struck out Lefebvre, and the Dodgers night was finished. He retired 9 of the last 10 batters. The win improved Carlton's lifetime record against the Dodgers to 8-2, 6-0 in Dodger Stadium.
"It's just one of those things. The weather is always great here and the mound is in perfect shape. But mostly, I love it because it's cool."
Steve Carlton
The Phillies put the game away when the Dodgers had a horror 8th inning giving up 3 runs (1 earned) on a wild pitch and a throwing error that allowed 2 runs to score. As in his second start (see below) these insurance runs proved to be superfluous. This was a "long" game, 2 hours and 5 minutes, only the 2nd time he has worked in a two hour game. Willie Davis was the first left-handed batter Carlton faced since he pitched against the Cardinals in his 2nd start. (See below).
After the game Carlton was asked about the 43 strikeouts in 43 innings.
"That's a great ratio if you can keep it up. But it's a long season, and when the hot weather comes, well, I could reach back and get it tonight."
"The players on this club love to play behind Carlton. They know he's a stopper and is going to go out and do what he did this time."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager
"We saw a good pitcher tonight. The ball hit by Steve Garvey ( the double which led to the Dodgers run) and two balls hit by Frank Robinson were the only balls really hit well"
Walter Alston, Dodgers' Manager
The article revealed that Carlton signed for the Phillies for $10,000 more than the offer Cardinals' Owner August Busch refused (Carlton was traded over a discrepancy of $5,000 dollars between his demand and Busch's "final" offer).
"Usually, when you're traded, they'll satisfy the people they trade for."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Dodgers' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air. e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number(s) the number of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (ususally double plays)
Dodgers
1. W. Parker B,3.(1)g(1-3).....(4)f(9)...(6)g(4-3)..(8)1b(9)^
2. M. Mota R,7........(1)f(8)..(4)g(6-3).(6)g(6-3)..(8)f(9)
3. W. Davis L,8.......(1)f(4)..(4)1b(?)..(6)1b(9)...(8)K
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9.(2)K.....(4)W......(6)1b(9)...(9)f(9)!
5. J. Lefebvre B,4....(2)Kc....(4)g(6-4).(6)K.......(9)K
6. S. Garvey R,5.....(2)g(6-3).(5)2b(7)..(7)g(6-3)..(9)f(7)
7. D. Dietz R,2.......(3)Kc....(5)f(8)...(7)f(7)
8. B. Russell, R,6....(3)K.....(5)1b(9)*.(7)Kc
9. B. Singer R,1......(3)g(6-3.(5)K
9. H. Wilhelm(H) R,1
9. B. Valentine R,PH.....................(8)g(5-3)
9. P. Mikkelsen R,1
*=Caught stealing: 2-6
^=went to 2nd on E9
!=hit the ball "well" according to Manager Alston
For Carlton
Cumulative through 5 starts (43 innings--129 outs)
Outs: 43Ks, 42g, 38f (29 outfield, 9 infield); 41 Pulled, 23 Up the middle, 16 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 2 caught stealing, 1 pick off)
On base: 8 Walks (1 Intentional), 20 hits (16 1b, 4 2b), 1 error, 7 runs (7 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 20-147=.136 +8 Walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.65
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (1*2.2)=125 pitches.
6-33 (1 caught stealing)
Outs: 27: (10 right handers, 1 left hander)
9Ks 9g, 8f (7 outfield, 1 infield); 10 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 7
1 Walk; 6 hits (1 2b, 5 1b) ; 1 run;1 earned run.
Opposing batters faced: 33; 6-32 (1 Walk)
Dodger Right Handed Hitters: 4-28
Outs 24 (1 out caught stealing)
K-7
g-9 (7 Pulled; 1 Up the Middle; 1 Opposite Field)
f-7 (2 Pulled; 2 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field) (7 outfield)
On base:
W-1
1b-3 (3 Opposite field)
2b-1 (1 Pulled)
Dodger Left Handed Hitters: 2-4
Outs: 2
K-1
g-0
f-1 (infield, Pulled)
On base: 2
1b-2 (1 opposite field, 1 unknown)
+++
Start 4:
April 29: At San Diego Stadium: SD 4 Phi 0; Carlton 3-1 (1.59) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Steve Arlin (R) 1-3. Carlton's 3rd complete game and 1st loss.
Steve Arlin's Repertoire: (6" 3.5", 195 lbs: 34-67, 4.33, 1 save, 1969-1974) (Retrosheet)
1. Fastball in the low 90s; 2. "knee buckling" curve, but "struggled with control" (Arlin SABR biography).
Arm angle: appears from photo in biography to be overhand or three quarter.
Phi 000 000 000--0-5-1 (7-4--7-5); 3rd East 1.5 gb
SD 000 000 22x--4-6-0 (4-9--5-9); 5th West 5.0 gb
Time: 1:59; Attendance: 7,859; Saturday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (partial data only) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--60F; 11:00--60
Wind: 8:00--7MPH (from the SSW); 11:00--7 (S); blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--75%; 11:00--75%
8:00--Fair; 11:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play April 29 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Associated Press via Los Angeles Times (Proprietary), April 30, 1972. Section D. P.6
Times Headline: "Quang Tri Holding After 3-Day Attack: B-52s Hit Red Force 25 Miles North of Saigon," by George McArthur (P. A1).
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The last Major League pitcher to lose 20 games two years in a row was Paul Derringer in 1933 (St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati) and 1934 (Cincinnati). Derringer was 7-27 and 15-21. In 1939 and 1940 he pitched for Cincinnati and helped lead them to two pennants and a World Championship with records of 25-7 and 21-12. Steve Arlin barely missed equaling Derringer's feat in pitching for terrible San Diego teams in 1971 and 1972. He was 9-19 and 10-21, leading the league in losses both years.
But he didn't lose this game. The Padres handed Carlton his first loss in spite of a complete game 6 hit performance in which he struck out 10. But he wasn't as sharp in this game as in his first 3 starts. He walked 4 after walking a total of 5 going into this start. In the 4th inning, partly due to an error by Left Fielder Greg Luzinski, he allowed 2 men on base in the same inning for the first time this season. And while he quickly picked one of those runners off to avoid further trouble, his scoreless streak came (24 innings) to an end in the 7th. With one out, 2 walks (1 intentional) sandwiched around a an opposite field double by "Cito" Gaston loaded the bases. Carlton then struck out Dave Campbell for the 2nd out, but gave up a two run single up the middle to light hitting catcher Bob Barton (Retrosheet). The Padres added 2 more in the 8th on a walk to leadoff hitter Darrel Thomas (Retrosheet), who then stole second. Carlton then struck out the next two hitters, but cleanup hitter Nate Colbert singled to center scoring one run and then Gaston again doubled to the opposite field to score the Padres final run. Three of Carlton's four runs given up were walked on base.
Arlin pitched well when he had to, spacing 5 hits, 4 walks (2 intentional), and 2 hit batters for the shutout. He worked out of bases loaded jams in the 3rd and 7th and stranded 2 in the 2nd. For the game, the Phillies left 10 men on the bases.
For the second consecutive start, Carlton faced an all right handed lineup. San Diego's 3-5 hitters were 4-10, with 2 RBIs and 3 runs scored. They walked once and struck out 3 times. They got more hits in this game than the 3-5 hitters in Carlton's 1st 3 starts combined, moving his line against the heart of the National League order from 1-30 to 5-40.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position, PH=Pinch Hitter
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, G=ground ball F=ball in the air. E=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Padres:
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)W.......(3)K........(6)f(7)...(8)W
2. E. Hernandez R,6.(1)sb(5-3).(4)f(7E)....(6)g(6-3).(8)K
3. J. Jeter R,8.....(1)g(5-3)..(4)s(3**)^..(7)K......(8)K
4. N. Colbert R,3...(1)g(5-3)..(4)K........(7)W......(8)1b(8)
5. C. Gaston R,7....(2)g(5-3)..(4)f(3*)....(7)2b(9)..(8)2b(9)
6. O. Brown R,9.....(2)K.......(5)1b(7)....(7)(IW)...(8)Kc
7. D. Campbell R,5..(2)K.......(5)f(8).....(7)K
8. B. Barton R,2....(3)f(9*)...(5)g(6-3DP).(7)1b(8)
9. S. Arlin R,1.....(3)f(6)....(6)g(6-3)...(7)K
*=foul
**=bunt
^Picked off 1st 1-3
For Carlton
Cumulative through 4 starts (34 innings--102 outs) (innings corrected May 5, 2020)
Outs: 34Ks, 33g, 31f (22 outfield, 8 infield); 31 Pulled, 20 Up the middle, 12 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff)
On base: 7 Walks (1 Intentional), 14 hits (11 1b, 3 2b); 1 error; 6 runs (6 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 14-115 (.122) (at bats) +7 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.62
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters (8 inning complete game). Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (10*1.5) + (4*2.2)=133 pitches.
Outs: 24: (9 right handers, 0 left handers)
10Ks; 6g; 6f (4 outfield [1 error], 2 infield); 9 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 pickoff; 1 double play
6g: 6 Pulled; 0 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
6f: 3 Pulled (1 error); 1 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field
On Base: 10
4W (1 Intentional Walk) 4 1b; Pulled 2 Up the middle; 2 2b; Pulled 0, Up the middle 2; Opposite field 0
Opposing batters faced: 33
Total: 6-29 (not including walks)
+++
Start 3:
April 25: at San Francisco Candlestick Park: Phi 3 SF 0; Carlton 3-0 (0.69) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Juan Marichal (H) (R) (Tied for 8th for NL Cy Young Award in 1971--Baseball Reference) (1-2) (Marichal in action--Hall of Fame Youtube): Carlton's 2nd complete game and 2nd shutout.
Juan Marichal's repertoire: (6'0", 185 lbs: 243-142, 2.89, 2 saves, 1960-1975)
1. Slider; 2. Fastball; 3. Changeup; 4. Curve; 5. Screwball (Al Stump--Sport Magazine, 1964 via James-Neyer, P. 292.)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Screwball (Pat Frizzel, The Sporting News, 1972, via J-N, P. 293).
Arm angle: anywhere from sidearm to overhand, with a huge leg kick that had his left leg higher than his head before the delivery. Roger Angell described Marichal's pitching motion: "...throws like some enormous and dangerous farm implement." (New Yorker, reprinted in The Summer Game, via J-N P. 293.)
Phi 000 010 020--3-6-0 (4-3--5-3); 3rd 0.5 gb
SF 000 000 000--0-1-0 (4-5--4-6); 3rd 4.0 gb
Time: 1:47; Attendance: 6,092; Tuesday Night Game: 8:00pm; Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Sporting News Umpire Card)
Weather conditions (partial data only) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--53F; 11:00--51
Wind: 8:00--20MPH (from the W); 11:00--9 (W) blowing across--right to left
Humidity: 8:00--50%; 9:00--50; 10:00--68
7:00--Mostly Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play April 25 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Associated Press via Los Angeles Times (proprietary), April 26, 1972, Section III, P. 1, 4.
Times Headline: "New Quiz for Kleindienst" (Senate Confirmation hearing for Richard G. Kleindienst as Attorney General). Questions were about his "role in settlement of the controversial antitrust suit against International Telephone and Telegraph, which has snagged his confirmation." Kleindienst was confirmed later in 1972 and resigned as Richard Nixon's AG on April 30, 1973.
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Carlton went from dominant to overpowering in his 3rd start, a brilliant one hit shutout, otherwise marred by a single walk. He struck out 14. The Giants started an all right handed lineup against him, the first time he faced such a lineup this season. Right handers are now 5-61 (1 double--the 2nd messed up by Ferguson Jenkins, who missed 1st base on a double and ended up without a hit for his efforts [see Start 1 below]). against him. He gave up a hit to Chris Speier to open the game. He then disposed of the next 15 batters, 11 by strikeout. He then gave up a walk, before disposing of the last 11 batters.
The Phillies scored in the 5th on two walks, a sacrifice bunt, and a sacrifice fly by Denny Doyle . In the 8th they scored two superfluous runs when, with two outs and runners on 2nd and 3rd (Carlton started the inning with a single--he is now 3-9 with a run scored), Deron Johnson singled to right. The runs were superfluous because for the 3rd consecutive start, Carlton did not allow more than 1 runner in any inning. His 2nd consecutive shutout ran his scoreless streak to 18 innings. He held the 3-5 hitters in the Giants lineup, Bobby Bonds, Dave Kingman (Wikipedia), and Ken Henderson to 0-9, with 5 strikeouts. In three games, the heart of the opposition lineup is now 1-30 with 9 strikeouts.
The Giants starter, Juan Marichal, did not pitch all that badly, a complete game giving up 6 hits and 3 runs, walking 3 (1 intentionally) and striking out 7. This game took an hour and 47 minutes. Carlton's 2nd and 3rd starts lasted a grand total of 3 hours and 20 minutes, about the time of one slightly long baseball game today. Carlton has now opened the season beating 2 of the top 10 1971 Cy Young Award candidates, and holding the winner of the award to a no decision.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, G=ground ball F=ball in the air. E=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field. PH=Pinch hitter
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Giants:
1. C. Speier R,6.....(1)1b(8).....(4)Kc......(6)f(8)...(9)Kc
2. T. Fuentes B,4....(1)g(5-4**)..(4)K.......(7)f(7)
3. B. Bonds R,9......(1)g(6-3)....(4)K.......(7)f(9)
4. D. Kingman R,3....(2)K.........(5)f(2***).(7)K
5. K. Henderson B,7..(2)K.........(5)K.......(8)f(8)
6. G. Maddox* R, 8...(2)K.........(5)K.......(8)f(8)
7. F. Healy R,2......(3)Kc........(6)Kc......(8)g(5-3)
8. C. Arnold R,5.....(3)g(6-3)....(6)W.......(9)g(6-3)
9. J. Marichal(H)R,1.(3)Kc........(6)g(2-3)
9. W. Mays(H) R(PH)..........................(9)Kc
*=this was Gary Maddox' debut game in MLB.
**=thrown out stealing 2-4
***=fouled out
For Carlton
Cumulative through 3 starts (26 innings--78 outs)
Outs: 24Ks, 27g, 25f(19 outfield, 6 infield); 22 Pulled, 19 Up the middle, 10 Opposite field (1 appeal, 1 double play, 1 caught stealing)
On base: 3 Walks, 8 hits (7 1b, 1 2b) 2 runs (2 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 8-84=.095; +3 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched) =0.42
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 28 batters 10 right handers 0 left handers: Pitch Count Estimate (28*3.3) +(14*1.5) + (1*2.2)=116 pitches.
Outs: 27 (10 right handers, 0 left handers)
14Ks; 6g; 6f; 4 Pulled; 5 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
6g: 5 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
6f: 1 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field
On Base:
2: 1W 1 1b; 1 Up the middle
Giants Right handed hitters outs 26 (1-27) (1 caught stealing)
14K
g=6: 5 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
f=6; 1 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field (5 outfield, 1 infield)
On base: Walks 1; Hits 1 (1 up the middle)
Giants Left handed hitters: none
+++
Start 2:
April 19: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium v St. Louis: Phi 1 St.L 0: Carlton 2-0 (1.06) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bob Gibson (H) (R) (5th in NL Cy Young Award for 1971--Baseball Reference) (0-1). (Gibson in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) Carlton's 1st complete game and 1st shutout.
Gibson's Repertoire: (6'1", 189 lbs: 251-174, 2.91, 6 saves, 1959-1975)
1. Rising fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Sinking fastball; 4. Curve; 5. Changeup. Gibson said he had 9 pitches; 2 different fastballs, 2 different sliders, a curve, a changeup, a knock-down, a brush-back, and a hit-batsman. (P. 217)
Arm angle: three quarter, according to Tom Seaver (see citation below under Ferguson Jenkins.
St.L 000 000 000--0 3 0 (1-3--1-4)
Phi 000 001 00x--1 11 0 (2-2--3-2)
Time: 1:33; Attendance: 8,184; Wednesday, Night Game: 7:35pm. Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm-- 76F; 8:00--75; 9:00--68
Wind: 7:00--14MPH (from the SW); 8:00--14 (SSW); 9:00--8 (SW) Wind blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--50%; 8:00--50%; 9:00--68%
7:00--Mostly Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at close of play April 19 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Associated Press via Portsmouth (Ohio) Times, April 20, 1972, P. 18. "Carlton blanks former mates," by Herschel Nissenson
Associated Press via Reading Eagle, April 20, 1972, P. 54? "Revenge Not on Carlton's Mind" by Herschel Nissenson (expanded version of the story above). (Added April 24, 2020).
Times top Headline: "House Dems Condemn Bombing" (Associated Press) April 20) P. 1
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In 1964 the St. Louis Cardinals were the beneficiaries of one of the most one-sided trades in baseball history (Chicago Tribune via St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Jun. 15, 2014), receiving the young Lou Brock (H) from the Cubs for veteran pitcher Ernie Broglio (more players were involved but these are the ones remembered). But before the beginning of the 1972 season, they returned the favor, trading Carlton to the Phillies for pitcher Rick Wise. Carlton was coming off a 20-9 (3.56) season. Wise was 17-14 (2.88) in 1971. While the Cubs trade was about talent, the Cardinals' was about money, Carlton angering Cardinals owner August Busch by holding out for a better contract than the multi-millionaire beer entrepreneur wanted to pay. Wise went on to a good career. Carlton went on to the Hall of Fame.
This was Carlton's first start against his old team. He drew the best the Cardinals had to offer, Bob Gibson (H). He throttled the Cardinals on 3 hits, striking out 5 and walking nobody. The Phillies peppered Gibson for 11 hits (1 walk, 5 strikeouts). The only scoring in the game came in the 6th on a lead off triple to right by Willie Montanez, followed immediately by a single to center by Deron Johnson. Just as in his first start, Carlton did not allow more than 1 base runner in any inning. He retired 18 of the first 20 batters he faced, and finished by retiring the last 9 in a row. He held the Cardinals' 3, 4, and 5 hitters (Matty Alou, Donn Clendenon, and Ted Simmons (*H) (mlb.com) to a combined 1-9 with 1 strike out. For his first 2 starts, he has now held the heart of the opposing team's order to 1-21 with 4 strikeouts. The Phillies had hits in 6 of their 8 turns at bat, but Gibson kept them off the scoreboard. The game was played in an astonishing 1 hour and 33 minutes, less than half the length of today's games. Gibson was known for his quick and effective work.
*=Simmons joins the Hall of Fame with the 2020 class.
Did the game mean anything extra to Carlton?
"The incentive is to win. That's my incentive. Not beating any particular team. It's nice to come back and beat the team that traded you and beat a pitcher like Gibby. But it's just as nice beating any team."
When asked about the trade:
"That's all over. Mr. Busch is a gentleman. It's just a shame he took it personally. But let's not talk about that. Let's just talk now about winning."
Steve Carlton
"That is the last team in the world Steve would like to shut out."
Joe Hoerner, who also pitched for the Phillies in 1972
"It seems like before I gave the signs he was throwing pitches. I'd look up and here it comes. He had a super curve ball."
Tim McCarver
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases.
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (PH=Pinch hitter)
K=strike out (K(c)=called strikeout when known, K(s)=swinging strikeout when known) W=Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air (l indicates line drive if known) . e=error, sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run,
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Cardinals
1. L. Brock(H) L,7 (1)K.......(4)g(4-3)...(6)K.....(9)g(6-3)
2. T. Sizemore R,4 (1)g(5-3)..(4)f(7).....(7)1b(8).(9)f(^8)
3. M. Alou L,9 (1)g(1-3)..(4)1b(8)....(7)g(3-4)
4. D. Clendenon R,3(2)g(6-3)..(4)f(9).....(7)f(8)
5. T. Simmons+ B,2 (2)f(L5)...(5)K........(7)f(8)
6. J. Cruz L,8 (2)f(7)....(5)g(*1-3)..(8)g(4-3)
7. E. Crosby L,5,6 (3)1b(7)...(5)f(**5)...(8)g(6-3)
8. D. Maxvill R,6 (3)g(5-4-3)(6)g(6-3)
8. G. McNertney R,PH......................(8)K
8. M. Martinez B,5
9. B. Gibson(H) R,1(3)g(4-3)..(6)f(8)
9. L. Melendez R,PH.......................(9)K
+Ted Simmons will be entering the Hall of Fame with the 2020 class.
*=bunt
**=foul
^=according to play by play "the Cardinals argued that the ball was trapped against the wall."
No strikeouts were identified as called or swinging.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 2 starts (17 innings--51 outs)
Outs:
10Ks 21g; 19f (14 outfield, 5 infield); 16 Pulled; 14 Up the middle; 9 Opposite field (1 appeal, 1 double play)
On base:
2 Walks, 7 hits (6 1b, 1 2b) 2 runs (2 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 7-57=.123 +2 walks WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.53
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 29 batters : Pitch Count Estimate: (29*3.3) + (5*1.5) + 0=103 pitches.
Outs: 27 (7 right handers, 4 left handers)
5Ks; 0W; 13g; 9f; 9 Pulled; 6 Up the middle; 6 Opposite Field, 1 double play
13g; 7 Pulled; 2 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field
9f (8f, 1l--2 infield, 7 outfield); 2 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field
3 hits (all 1b) 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field
Cardinals right handed hitters outs: 15 (1-16) (1 double play)
K=3;
g=6 (5 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
f=7 (1l, 6f) (2 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
On base: Walks 0, Hits 1 (1 Up the middle)
Cardinals left handed hitters outs: 11 (2-13)
K=2
g=7 (3 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field)
f=2 (1 infield, 1 outfield); (0 Pulled, 0 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field.
Walks, 0; Hits 2 (2 1b) (0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
Total: 3-29
+++
Start 1:
April 15 (Opening Day): at Chicago Wrigley Field: Phi 4 Chi 2; Carlton 1-0 (2.25) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube), v Ferguson Jenkins (R) (H) (1971 NL Cy Young Award Winner--Baseball Reference) (0-0) (Jenkins in action--Hall of Fame Youtube)
Jenkins' Repertoire: (6'5", 205 lbs; 284-226, 3.34, 7 saves, 1965-1983)
1. Four-seam fastball; 2. Two-seam fastball; 3. Slider; 4. Curve: 5. Changeup (Forkball).
Arm angle: three quarters (according to Tom Seaver it only appeared to be sidearm because Jenkins was "so tall and reached out so far.") (Pitching with Tom Seaver, by Seaver and Steve Jacobs, via James-Neyer (P. 256)
Phi 000 100 102--4 10 0 (0-0--1-0)
Chi 001 000 010--2 4 2 (0-0--0-1)
Time: 2:15; Attendance: 17,401; Saturday, Day Game: 1:15pm; Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for pitch calls in 1972) (Sporting News Umpire Card, ca: 1973)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00-- 54F; 2:00--53; 3:00--52
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the NE); 2:00--14 (ENE); 3:00--9 (NE) Wind blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--64%; 2:00--63%; 3:00--63%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at close of play, April 15
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story
Chicago Tribune, April 16, 1972, PD1. "Phillies Dump Cubs 4-2", by Bob Logan (proprietary).
Tribune top Headline: "B-52s Bomb Haiphong: Hit Fuel, Supply Dumps in Retaliation" (From Wire Services)1
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Carlton (H) opened the delayed (by the first player's strike in modern history [Sports Illustrated, April 10, 1972]) 1972 season by giving up 2 runs and 4 hits in 8 innings before he was lifted for a pinch hitter in the 9th. He was only expected to go 6 but had only thrown 68 pitches in that time. The Phillies started a rally with 2 outs in the 9th against Cubs reliever Bill Hands (Wikipedia), who had come in to replace starter Ferguson Jenkins (H) at the start of the 7th. Jenkins gave up 5 hits and 1 earned run. After the first two batters were retired in the 9th, Ron Stone batted for Carlton and pulled a single to right. Larry Bowa then followed with another hit to right, Stone advancing to third. Then came the pivotal moment, Tim McCarver pulled a ball to right field (a wicked sun field in Wrigley field). Jose Cardenal lost the ball, it went in and out of his glove, and both runners scored. Cardenal claimed that he did not see the ball, but it was ruled an error.
"People don't realize how tough it is to play right field here. All I could do was play the sound with that ball. The sun was in my eyes all the way and the first time I saw the ball it was right in my face. I did the best I could and I'll come out tomorrow and do the same thing."
Jose Cardenal
"All the elements were there to make it a hit. The ball should have been caught but this is the toughest right field in the league."
Tim McCarver
"The ball was in his glove, although the sun probably bothered him."
Cubs coach Pete Reiser, managing because Leo Durocher (H) was sidelined by a "throat virus."
After Carlton got the first 6 Cubs out, they touched him for a run in the 3rd on a single to left by Rick Monday (Wikipedia), followed one out later by a Jenkins apparent double down the right field line to knock the run in. Jenkins, however, missed 1st base and was out on an appeal, turning a man on 2nd with one out into nobody on and 2 outs. The Phillies then quickly tied the game in the 4th on a leadoff home run on the first pitch by Greg Luzinski (into the teeth of a "stiff breeze" coming in from left field). The Phillies took the lead immediately after Jenkins left the game. Denny Doyle singled to center, Carlton laid down a sacrifice bunt, and, with 2 outs, McCarver singled to center to score Doyle. The Cubs tied it in the eighth on a Don Kessinger single and a Hands strike out (most likely failing to sacrifice). Cardenal then forced Kessinger at 2nd. The Cubs right -fielder then stole second and scored on an infield hit by Glen Beckert when the ball popped out of 1st baseman Deron Johnson's glove.
"I was going all the way in that spot. The running game is what I've been playing all my life."
Jose Cardenal
After the 6 consecutive out streak, Carlton had another 6 consecutive out streak from the 3rd to 5th inning, and then another from the 5th to the 7th. He blanked the middle of the Cubs order, Billy Williams (H), Ron Santo (H), and Joe Pepitone (0-12) , striking out Santo once and Pepitone twice. With the assistance of Jenkins' base running blunder, the Cubs never had more than one runner on base during the entire course of the game.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name; handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter); defensive position
K=strike out (K(c)=called strikeout when known; W=Walk; G=ground ball; F=ball in the air; E=error; 1b=single; 2b=double; 3b=triple; HR=home run; sb=sacrifice bunt; sf=sacrifice fly
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field. A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air, a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
========
Cubs
1. J. Cardenal R,7 (1)g(4-3)...(3)W......(6)f(8)...(8)g(5-4)
2. G. Beckert R,4 (1)f(8).....(3)g(1-3).(6)f(9)...(8)1b(6)
3. B. Williams(H)L,9(1)g(1-3)..(4)f(3)...(6)f(8)...(8)g(4-3)
4. R. Santo(H)R,5 (2)K........(4)g(6-3).(7)f(8)
5. J. Pepitone L,3 (2)K........(4)f(2)...(7)K
6. R. Hundley R,2 (2)f(5).....(5)f(7)...(7)1b(?)
7. R. Monday L,8 (3)1b(7)....(5)g(1-3).(7)K
8. D. Kessinger B,6(3)f(7).....(5)2b(?)..(8)W
9. F. Jenkins(H),R,1(3)?(9)*...(5)g(4-3)
9. B. Hands R,1..........................(8)K
9. S. Hamilton L,1
*=Jenkins missed 1st base on a double to right. Scoring on the appeal play was 9-4-2-1-3. Jenkins does not get credit for a hit but does get an RBI.
For Carlton
Cumulative: 1 start; 8 innings; 24 outs
Outs: 24 (7 right handers, 3 left handers)
5K; 8g (4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field) 10f (8 in the outfield, 2 Pulled, 4 to center field, 1 Opposite field) 3 in the infield (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle) 1 appeal
On Base:
2 Walks, 4 hits (3 1b, 1 2b) (1 in the infield, 3 in the outfield) (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle 1 Opposite field, 2 Unknown)
Total Opposing bating average: 4-28=.143; WHIP (Walks + Hits Per Inning Pitched)= 0.75
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 30 batters (7 right handers, 3 left handers): Pitch Count Estimate (30*3.3) + (5*1.5) + (2*2.2)=111 pitches
---
Cubs right handed batters: 3-18; 2 walks; 2K; 5g; 7f; 5 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 out on appeal
Cubs right handed batters outs: 14; 2K; 5 Pulled (2g, 3f [2 outfield]); 4 Up the middle (1g, 3f (all outfield); 3 Opposite field (2g); 1 appeal
Cubs right handed batters on base: 2 W; 3 hits: 1 2b (unknown), 2 1b (1 Opposite field 1 1b, other unknown)
Cubs left handed hitters: 1-10; 0 walks, 3K, 3g, 3f ; 2 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; Opposite field 0
Cubs left handed batters outs: 9; 3K; 2 Pulled (1g, 1f[infield]); 4 Up the middle (2g, 2f (1 infield); 0 Opposite field
Cubs left handed hitters on base: 1 1b (Opposite field )
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Padres batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Padres
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)1b(?)......(3)g(5-3).(6)1b(?)*.(8)f(8)
1. F. Stanley R,4.............................................(11)W
2. D. Roberts R,5...(1)1b(?)......(3)K......(6)f(8)...(9)K...(11)sb(5-4)
3. J. Moraldes R,7..(1)W..........(3)f(9)...(6)K......(9)f(8).(11)f(9)
4. N. Colbert R,3...(1)(gDP)5-4-3.(4)g(6-3).(7)K......(9)g(6-3)(11)IW
5. C. Gaston R,9....(1)K..........(4)g(6-3).(7)g(5-3).(10)f(4).(11)f(9)
6. J. Jeter R,8.....(2)K..........(4)g(6-3).(7)1b(?)..(10)K
7. F. Kendall R,2...(2)1b(?)......(5)?(3)...(7)f(L8)..(10)2b(?)
7. L. Stahl L,PR......................................(10)PR
7. P. Corrales R,2
8. E. Hernandez R,6.(2)3b(?)......(5)f(L7)..(8)g(5-3).(10)IW
9. C. Kirby R,1.....(2)&g(5-3)....(5)K......(8)g(5-3).(10)f(7)
&=Kirby missed the ball on a suicide squeeze. Hernandez was caught
stealing Home, Carlton to catcher John Bateman
*=Thomas was picked off first while Roberts was at bat: Carlton to 1st Baseman Tommy Hutton.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 23 starts (187 1/3 innings, 562 outs) 14 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 195K, 160g, 178f(120 outfield, 58 infield); 4 unkown; 155 Pulled, 84 Up the Middle, 103 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 12 double plays, 8 caught stealing, 3 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 52 walks (5 intentional); 144 hits (104 1b, 25 2b, 3 3b, 12HR--including 1 inside the park HR), 9 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 57 runs (54 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 144-623 (.233) + 52 walks (5 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.05
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 40 batters (11 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (40*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (4*2.2)=153 pitches
Padres were 7-36 (1 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 sacrifice bunt)
Outs: 33 (10 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 11g, 10f(1 infield, 9 outfield), 1 unkown (1 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff); 13 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 5 Opposite field;
On Base: 4 Walks (2 intentional), 7 hits (7 outfield hits) (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b); Direction: 0 known; 1 sacrifice bunt
+++
July 15: San Francisco Candlestick Park (roll mouse to 1960 and then to 1972 to see the changes); Phi 11 SF 4: Carlton 12-6 (2.65) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Frank Reberger (Wikipedia) (R) 0-0 (4.12).
Carlton lasted only 5 innings (tied for his second shortest outing in innings so far [see Start 16]). This was his shortest outing this season by pitch estimate so far (76). He gave up 4 runs, struck out 5 and walked 1, and allowed 5 hits. Two of them were home runs, one by his nemesis Bobby Bonds (who continued to master his pitching--2-3--the other hit being a single, followed by a stolen base--now Bonds is 6-13 with 2 home runs, 2 doubles, and only 1 strike out v Carlton), the other an inside the park two run home run by Chris Speier. Carlton was taken out for a pinch hitter in the 6th. The game was won by the Phillies' biggest single inning output of the season so far, 11 runs in the 7th inning. They were ably abetted by ghastly Giants pitching (see below), Carlton now has struck out 187 in 176 1/3 innings. He has received 71 runs of support in 22 starts.
Frank Reberger's repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 14-15, 4.52, 8 saves, 1968-1972). I have been unable to find any information about Reberger's repertoire or arm angle. He pitched for 3 teams in his 5 seasons. His busiest year was 1970, when he pitched 152 innings for the Giants, starting 18 and finishing 7-8, with a 5.57 ERA. He did not participate in the Giants' NL Championship series v Pittsburgh in 1971.
Phi 000 000 (11)00-----11-8-2--(37-49--37-50) 6 E -22.0 g
SF 103 000 000---------4-6-0--(28-53--29-53) 5 W -16.0 g
Time: 2:50 (Retrosheet); 2:53 (Reading Eagle AP Box Score); Attendance: 5,984; Saturday Day Game: 1:00pm; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2.
Weather conditions (partial data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--76F; 5:00--76
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (Out of NE); 5:00--6 (WSW); From Right to Left and then from Left to Right
Humidity: 2:00--54%; 5:00--50%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play, July 15 (scroll to the bottom)
Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Reading Eagle: "Phillies Score 11 in Wild 7th" (scroll 2 columns left as there is no direct anchor to the story) (Associated Press, Jul. 12, P. 53).
Eagle Headline: "New Peace (Vietnam) Progress?" (Associated Press, Jul. 12, P. 1).
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Going into this game, the Giants had won 15 of their last 19, their best stretch of the season. Their record improved from 22-45 (their season's low point) to 37-49. But on this beautiful Saturday afternoon, they played their most appalling inning of the season to provide the Phillies with their 3rd win in the last 4 Carlton starts. And for the 3rd time in the last 4 Carlton starts, the Phillies scored all their runs and got most of their hits in one inning. Alas, it was after Carlton left the game, taken out for a pinch hitter in the fifth with his team down 4-0 (he gave up 3 runs after getting the first 2 outs in the 3rd--possibly his worst inning of the season so far. The Phillies backed him with 0 runs against journeyman Frank Reberger. In the 7th the Phillies had their biggest scoring output of the season, plating all 11 of their runs. 15 men batted, and got 6 hits (including a double and a triple), 6 walks (including 2 with the bases loaded), 2 wild pitches (1 scored a run), and 2 sacrifice flies. The Giants paraded 4 relievers to the mound after Reberger opened the inning with a walk and a single. Here is the inning as it happened.
Walk, Single, Walk, Single (1 run in), Walk (1 run in), Wild Pitch (1 run in), Walk, Sacrifice Fly (1 run in), Single, Walk (1 run in), Double (2 runs in), Squeeze Bunt Single (1 run in), Wild Pitch, Triple (2 runs in), Sacrifice Fly (1 run in), Walk, Strikeout.
According to the games story, the damage was done in 48 minutes. After that, two Phillies relievers mopped up. The Giants 3,4,5 hitters, Chris Speier, Dave Kingman (Wikipedia)/Ed Goodson (who replaced Kingman after one at bat in which he walked and then was picked off by Carlton--Kingman did not return to action until July 30, so it appears he suffered injury in addition to insult), and Tito Fuentes went 1-5 with a home run and 2 RBI. The Heart of the National League order is now 51-229 (.223), with 7 home runs (5 solo and two 2 run--including 1 inside the park) and 24 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.52 to 2.65.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Giants
1. B. Bonds R,9.....(1)HR(?)..(3)1b(?)$..(5)g(5-3)
2. G. Maddox R,8....(1)K......(3)1b(?)...(5)K
3. C. Speier R,6....(1)g(6-3).(3)HR(?)#
4. D. Kingman R,3...(1)W&
4. E. Goodson L,3.............(3)f(7)
5. T. Fuentes B,4...(2)f(7)...(4)f(2)
6. A. Gallagher R,3.(2)g(5-3).(4)1b(?)
7. K. Henderson B,7.(2)f(9)...(4)f(L8)
8. F. Healy R,2.....(3)K......(4)K
9. F. Reberger L,1..(3)f(3)...(5)K
&=Kingman was picked off by Carlton and apparently injured--out until July 30.
$=Bonds stole 2nd while Maddox was at bat
#=Speier hit a 2 run inside the park home run
For Carlton
Cumulative through 22 starts (176 1/3 innings, 529 outs) 12 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 187K, 149g, 168f(111 outfield, 57 infield), 3 unkown; 142 Pulled, 80 Up the Middle, 98 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 2 pickoffs, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 48 walks (3 intentional), 137 hits (99 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 12HR--including 1 inside the park HR); 9 errors*, 1 hit by pitch, 55 runs (52 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 137-587 (.233) +48 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.05
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 20 batters (5 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (20*3.3) + (5*1.5) + (1*2.2)=76 pitches
Giants were 5-19 (1 pickoff)
Outs: 15 (8 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 5K, 3g, 6f(2 infield, 4 outfield); 5 Pulled, 2 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 pickoff
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits (2 known outfield hits) (3 1b, 2HR--including 1 inside the park HR); Direction: 0 known; 1 stolen base
---
Giants right handed hitters: 17 plate appearances: 5-16 (1 pickoff)
Outs: 4K, 3g, 4f(1 infield, 3 outfield); 4 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field outs (1 pickoff)
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (2 known outfield hits) (3 1b, 2HR--including 1 inside the park HR); Direction: 0 known; 1 stolen base
Giants left handed hitters: 3 plate appearances: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 0g, 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle 1 Opposite Field
On Base: 0
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (2 known outfield hits) (3 1b, 2HR--including 1 inside the park HR); Direction: 0 known; 1 stolen base
Giants left handed hitters: 3 plate appearances: 0-3
Outs: 1K, 0g, 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle 1 Opposite Field
On Base: 0
Start 21
July 11: Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 LA 1: Carlton 12-6 (2.52) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Sutton (Hall of Fame) (H) (R) 10-5 (2.09) Sutton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube
In a battle against Don Sutton (H), who would (arguably) be the 2nd or 3rd best pitcher in the National League this season (19-9, 9 shutouts to lead the NL, and a WHIP [see below] of 0.91), Carlton pitched his 13th complete game and won his 7th consecutive game (including 3 no decisions). He pitched a 5 hit, 0 earned run 4-1 win over the Dodgers. It was Carlton's 1st start under new Manager Paul Owens (Wikipedia) (see Start 12 below). He walked 1 and struck out 8, with a wild pitch after a Tommy Hutton (Wikipedia) error leading to the only Dodger run. Carlton now has 182 strikeouts in 171 1/3 innings. By comparison, the 2nd leading strikeout artist in the NL at this point is Tom Seaver (H) of the Mets, with 112. The AL leader is Nolan Ryan (H) of the Angels with 138. (Source: Los Angeles Times game story--see below). Carlton has now received 71 runs of support in 21 starts.
Don Sutton's (H) Repertoire (6'1", 185 lbs, 324-256, 3.26, 5 saves, 1966-1988)
1966: 1. Curve; 2. Fastball (Source: Sporting News [Bob Hunter], July 2, 1966; The Heart of the Order [Thomas Boswell], 1990, and You're Missin' a Great Game [Whitey Herzog (H) and Jonathan Pitts], 1998).
Later: 1. Curve; 2. Fastball; 3. Slider; 4. Screwball; 5. Changeup (Source for this and earlier repertoire: NJ, P. 398-399).
"Sutton was frequently accused of doctoring the baseball" (defacing/cutting the ball rather than adding moisture) (NJ, P. 398).
"I don't think too many pitchers have mastered as many pitches as he has."
Walter Alston (H), Dodger Manager, managed Sutton from 1966-1976.
Sutton was also known to call his own games, pitch by pitch, either agreeing with his catcher, or using a sequence of swipes of his glove across his chest or down his pants leg to add to or subtract from the number of fingers with which the catcher had signaled. (Source: Pure Baseball: Pitch by Pitch For the Advanced Fan [Keith Hernandez and Mike Bryan], 1994, via NJ, P. 398-399).
Arm angle: three quarter
LA 000 000 010--1-5-0--(41-37--41-38)--3 W -6.0 g
Phi 040 000 00x--4-4-2--(27-51--28-51)--6 E -21.5 g
Time: 2:10; Attendance: 18,443; Tuesday Night Game: 7:35pm Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (retrosheet.org, Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation)
Temperature: 7:00pm--84F, 8:00--82, 9:00--78;
Wind: 7:00--9mph(Out of SW), 8:00--6(WSW), 9:00--6(SW); Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--55%; 8:00--60%, 9:00--68%
Mostly cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement
Standings at the Close of Play July 11 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): Dodgers Beaten 4-1; Slumping Robbie [Frank Robinson] (H), [Maury] Wills May Be Benched," by Ron Rapoport (July 12, P. G1 , G2).
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "COOLED OFF AT HOT CORNER: [Steve] Garvey's Promise at 3rd Marred by Flood of Errors", by Ron Rapoport (July 12, P. F1, F11). Garvey was benched recently after a nightmare streak of 6 errors in 7 games. As of this game he had made 18 errors and would go on to lead NL 3rd Basemen in errors with 28 in 85 games. Two years later, on a pennant winning team, he began a streak of 4 consecutive Gold Gloves as a 1st Baseman, (having earlier moved Bill Buckner to Left Field). 14 years later, Buckner, playing 1st Base, would make one of the most famous errors in World Series History.
Reading Eagle: "Expos, Braves Wait and Win" (Associated Press compendium of National League games), by Hal Bock (July 12, P. 46)
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Phillies Fire [Manager Frank] Lucchesi: G[eneral]M[anager] PAUL OWENS FIELD MANAGER (July 11, Associated Press, P.17).
"I guess it's the same in politics, war, and everything else in life. You can't change the army so you change the General."
Bob Carpenter, Phillies Owner.
"I'm upset and hurt. But I have to take some of the blame for the team's poor showing."
Frank Lucchesi.
"I'm making Paul the manager so that we can fully evaluate every player on the club."
Bob Carpenter
Los Angeles Times Headline: NOMINATION NIGHT: Only Suspense Left: Demo[cratic Party] V[ice]P[resident] Choice: Main Event Looks Easy for [Presidential candidate George] McGovern (July 12, Associated Press, P. 1, with other related stories on P. 18, P. 19).
Reading Eagle Headline: "McGovern Seeks Old Guard Help" (July 12, United Press Intermational, P. 1)
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
For the second time in his last three starts, Carlton got one inning of offense from the Phillies. And for the second time in his last three starts, he made that one inning stand up. On July 3 (see Start 19 below) they got all their hits and all their runs for the game in the 1st inning before an out was recorded. Today they got all but one of their hits (3) and all their runs in the 2nd. Just as in the July 3 game, their offense was completely throttled for the rest of the game, this time producing 1 hit and 1 walk, with the last 11 consecutive batters going down. The key hit in the Phillies' 2nd was a three run double by 3rd Baseman Don Money (Wikipedia) (who, as an aside, still holds 2 3rd Baseman defensive MLB season records--86 consecutive errorless games and 5 errors in a season--both set in 1974 with the Milwaukee Brewers of the American League). (Source: Baseball Almanac).
But for Rookie (played his first game June 30) 2nd Baseman Lee Lacy's 3 hits, Carlton would have twirled a 2 hit shutout. (Lacy, incidentally, fashioned a utility role with four teams into a 16 year career with appearances in four World Series' for two teams. He finished with a career batting average of .286 while never playing in more than 138 games in a season. He played every position but 1st Base, Catcher, and Pitcher). One of Lacy's hits, combined with an error and Carlton's 4th wild pitch of the season, gave the Dodgers their only run. Carlton had two pivotal confrontations, with 2 on in the first and with 1 on in the 8th. Robinson (H) was the hitter both times. Carlton retired him both times.
The Phillies caught the Dodgers in a very poor stretch that cost them a chance to challenge eventual Western Division Champion Cincinnati. On June 6 they were 29-18 and led the Reds by 1.5 games. On July 4 they bottomed out at 36-35, having lost 6 of 7 and 7 of 8 during that time. They recovered to finish 85-70, a distant 3rd, 10.5 games behind.
Carlton had 4 three up, three down innings, and gave up more than one hit in only one inning. The Dodgers' 3,4,5 hitters, Manny Mota (who set an MLB record for career pinch hits that stood for 22 years), Robinson (H), and Wes Parker (6 1st Baseman Gold Gloves in 9 years), went 1-11, a single by Mota in the 1st inning. The Heart of the National League order is now 50-224 (.223) with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.66 to 2.52. Don Sutton's went from 1.91 to 2.09.
"I hadn't seen him (Lacy) before and I wanted to test him, but I picked the wrong spot to test him. I'll pitch better next time."
Steve Carlton
"He's always a tough pitcher. And when you're not hitting he's going to get tougher. Every time I go up to the plate, I like to see somebody up there. I'm not sitting in the dugout thinking 'I hope nobody's on when I come up.' I feel I can do the job every time. There are times when you wonder: How long is it going to be? (Robinson was out from June 28 to July 6 due to a wrist injury. After this game he was 2-22 since his return). But I know what I need and when I get home I'm going to work on it. The first day back I'm going to get a half hour of good batting practice. That's not going to cure it by itself. If it did I'd come out earlier here. But these things are easier at home. I can look at tapes and see if I've picked up any bad habits, and see if I'm doing things I shouldn't be, or if I'm not doing things I should."
Frank Robinson (H).
Expletive deleted.
Maury Wills (whose average dropped to .124 after this game).
"Anything he gets to, he can still make the play. but we seem to have the choice of a good infielder or somebody batting .270. If we play the kids we get beat by errors. If we don't, we don't get the hitting.
Walter Alston, Dodgers manager, when asked about Wills' slump.
"The Philadelphia press was savage in its attacks on Tuesday on the firing of Phillies Manager Frank Lucchesi. Said one writer: 'Lucchesi's disillusionment, his utter crushed sorrow, is matched only by the naivete which led him to believe he could go on losing with the wretched team they handed him while he built [club President--part of the quote] Bob Carpenter's image.' "
Ron Rapoport, Los Angeles Times. The above three quotes are from the Times game story.
Interesting note in other games: Billy Williams (H), Cubs Left Fielder, had one of the best days of any hitter in MLB history. He went 8-8 in a double-header v Houston at Wrigley Field. In the first game he was 3-3 with a home run (his 17th) and 3 RBI (48, 49, and 50). In the second game, he was 5-5 with a home run (18) and 1 RBI (51), a double and 3 runs scored. He also had 4 putouts in the two games. The second game was the Cubs' 79th game of the season. The two teams split the double header. 1972 was one of two career years (1970 was the other) for Williams. He won the National League batting championship (.333) with 37 home runs (3rd in the League) and 122 RBI (2nd in the League). He also led the League in slugging % (.606). He was 2nd in the League in On Base % (.398). His OPS was 1.004 (led the League, although the statistic was not officially kept at the time). He had 34 doubles (4th in the League). He walked 62 times and struck out 59. He had 191 hits and scored 95 runs, while playing in 150 of the 155 games the Cubs played (7 less than the normal season because of the 1st MLB player's strike).
Johnny Bench (H) of the Cincinnati Reds won the 1972 NL Most Valuable Player award. Williams was 2nd. (Baseball Reference)
Here is a quick comparison using only the statistics available at the time (except for OPS, which is a simple sum of two averages). Judge for yourself who had the better year.
Johnny Bench: .270/40/125/ 87 runs scored, 22 doubles, slugging % .541, on base % .379, OPS .920, 100 walks, 84 strike outs, 284 total bases. Bench played in 147 games. He caught 129 games. He led the League in pick offs with 8.
Billy Williams: .333/37/122/ 95 runs scored, 34 doubles, slugging % .606, on base % .398, OPS 1.004, 62 walks, 59 strike outs, 355 total bases. Williams played in 150 games, 142 as a Left Fielder. He made 4 errors and had 9 assists.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Dodgers batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Dodgers
1. L. Lacy R,4.........(1)1b(8)..(3)g(1-3).(6)1b(7)..(8)1b(9)
2. W. Davis L,8........(1)K......(3)K......(6)f(8)...(8)E7$
3. M. Mota R,7.........(1)1b(9)..(4)g(6-3).(6)f(3)*..(8)&f(8)
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9..(1)f(9)...(4)f(9)...(6)W......(8)f(6)
5. W. Parker B,3.......(1)f(4)...(4)E3$....(6)g(6-4).(8)f(8)
6. C. Cannizzaro R,2...(2)f(8)...(4)K......(7)f(8)...(9)f(8)
7. B. Grabarkewitz R,5.(2)f(8)...(5)K......(7)1b(8)..(9)f(8)
8. M. Wills B,6........(2)g(6-3).(5)Kc.....(7)f(6)
8. B. Valentine R,PH.................................(9)K
9. D. Sutton(H) R,1....(3)K......(5)g(5-3)
9. D. Dietz R,PH...........................(7)Kc
9. P. Mikkelsen R,1
$=Parker reached on an error by Deron Johnson.
*=foul ball
$=Davis reached on an error by Tommie Hutton. Lacy advanced to 3rd.
&=Carlton threw his 4th wild pitch of the season, allowing Lacy to score. The run was unearned.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 21 starts (171 1/3 innings, 514 outs) 13 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 182K, 146g, 162f(107 outfield, 55 infield), 3 unkown; 137 Pulled, 78 Up the Middle, 96 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 47 walks (3 intentional), 132 hits (96 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 9 errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 51 runs (48 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 132-568 (.233) +47 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.04
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=130 pitches
Dodgers were 5-34 (2 errors)
Outs: 27 (10 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 8K, 5g, 14f(4 infield, 10 outfield); 6 Pulled, 9 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (5 1b); 1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field; 2 errors (1 wild pitch scored the only run--an unearned run--Carlton's 4th wild pitch this season)
---
Dodgers right handed hitters: 31 plate appearances: 5-30 (1 error)
Outs: 6K, 5g, 13f(4 infield, 9 outfield); 6 Pulled, 8 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field outs
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (5 1b); 1 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field, (1 error--1 infield error--1 Opposite field)
Dodger left handed hitters: 4 plate appearances: 0-4 (1 error)
Outs: 2K, 0g, 1f(1 outfield) ; 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle 0 Opposite Field
On Base: 0 Walks, 0 hits, 1 error (1 outfield error--1 Opposite field error)
Start 20
July 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 SD 2: Carlton 11-6 (2.66) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Mike Corkins (Wikipedia) (R) 0-5 (3.19)
This was Carlton's 11th complete game. He won his 6th in a row (not counting 3 no decisions). He gave up 9 hits while striking out 8 and walking 1. He has now struck out 174 in 162 1/3 innings. He has received 67 runs of support in 20 starts. At game time these were the two worst teams in baseball, with a combined record of 52-95, both in last place, an average of more than 19 games out of first. It was just before the midpoint of the season for both. The Phillies again used one big inning to put the game away. For the second straight Carlton start, the Phillies were outhit by their opponents.
Mike Corkins (6'1", 190 lbs, 19-28, 4.39, 9 saves, 1969-1974). I have been unable to find any information about Corkins' repertoire or arm angle. He was a relief pitcher most of his career. One of his main claims to fame was that he gave up Willie Mays' (H) 600th home run in 1969. Corkins never had a winning year and 1972 was his best year, 6-9, 3.54. It was also his busiest year. He pitched 140 innings.
SD 000 110 000--2-9-0--(27-47--27-48)--6 W -18.0 g
Phi 000 003 01x--4-7-1--(25-48--26-48)--6 E -20.5 g
Time: 2:14; This was the first game of a Twi-night Doubleheader. Total attendance was 18,106. Friday: 5:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (Retrosheet) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 5:00pm--77F; 6:00--76; 7:00--73; 8:00--71
Wind: 5:00--6MPH (from the WSW); 6:00--3 (SSE); 7:00--12 (S); 8:00--13(S)
Blowing out
Humidity: 5:00-6:00--48%; 7:00--64%; 8:00--68%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play July 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
I could find no news story longer than 2 sentences about this game. Not terribly surprising, given that I have no access to Philadelphia or San Diego newspapers. The importance of the game was also a factor.
New York Times Headline (proprietary): "High Court Ruling Leaves Seating Up To Convention, Posing Major Test for [Democratic Presidential Candidate George] M'Govern: Decision is 6-3; Effect Is To Divide The California Delegation And Bar [Chicago, Illinois Mayor Richard J.] Daley Bloc," by Warren Weaver, Jr. (July 8, 1972, P. 1, P. 11).
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
This was the first game of a Twi-night Doubleheader. Carlton faced off against journeyman reliever and spot starter Mike Corkins in a battle between the two worst teams in the League. Corkins pitched well, holding the Phillies hitless until 2 outs in the 4th inning, and off the scoreboard until the 6th. By that time the Padres had built a 2-0 lead with a 2 out rally in the 4th, a double by Left Fielder Clarence (Cito) Gaston (who would later manage the Toronto Blue Jays to consecutive World Championships in 1992-1993--the first and only African American Manager to win an MLB Championship), and a single by by Center Fielder Johnny Jeter (Wikipedia). In the 5th they scored again when Phillies' recently acquired catcher John Bateman (see Start 15 below) dropped a pop foul by Shortstop Enzo Hernandez (Wikipedia). Given a second life, Hernandez then doubled to left and was brought home by a single to right by Corkins. If you look at the Retrosheet play by play, you will see that had Hernandez' pop foul been caught, the Padres would not have scored in the inning. Yet Carlton was charged with an earned run.
The Phillies, for the second consecutive Carlton start, did almost all of their scoring in one inning. In the bottom of 6th, with two outs and a man on 1st, the Phillies parlayed a walk, a single, another walk, and another single into 3 runs. The crucial hit was the 2 run single delivered by Bateman. It was more than enough for Carlton, though the Phillies did add another run in the 8th when Left Fielder Greg Luzinski hit a solo home run. Corkins pitched 7 2/3 innings, succeeding in aiding the Padres pitching staff even though they lost the game. The Padres won the second game, so 4 1/2 hours between the worst teams in baseball ended in a standoff.
The Padres 3,4,5 batters, Jerry Morales, Nate Colbert (still the Padres all time career leader in home runs), and Gaston went 2-11 with 4 strikeouts. Carlton was at his best in the Padres 8th. After a lead off single by 3rd baseman Dave Roberts (Wikipedia) (the 1st overall pick in the 1972 draft, who never played a game in the minors before playing with the Padres--although he did spend considerable time in the minors later in a somewhat disappointing career), Carlton faced the heart of the order, each one the tying run at the plate. He struck them all out.
The heart of the National League order is now 49-213 (.230) with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.70 to 2.66.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Padres batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Padres
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)f(3)*..(3)1b(7)..(5)f(9).......(7)f(8)
2. D. Roberts R,5...(1)f(8)...(3)Kc.....(5)1b(9).....(8)1b(7)
3. J. Morales R,9...(1)g(6-3).(4)g(6-3).(5)gDP(4-6-3).(8)Kc
4. N. Colbert R,3...(2)Kc.....(4)f(7)...(6)f(7).......(8)K
5. C. Gaston R,7....(2)1b(7)..(4)2b(8)..(6)W .........(8)K
6. J. Jeter R,8.....(2)K......(4)1b(9)#.(6)gDP(6-3).(9)g(1-3)
7. P. Corrales R,2..(2)K......(4)Kc.....(7)f(4)
7. F. Kendall R,PH....................................(9)f(4)
8. E. Hernandez R,6.(3)f(7)...(5)2b(7)@.(7)f(5)*
8. G. Jestadt R,PH....................................(9)f(6)
9. M. Corkins R,1...(3)f(8)...(5)1b(9)..(7)1b(9)
9. M. Shaeffer L,1
*=Foul ball
#=Jeter stole 2nd while Corrales was at bat.
@=Hernandez' pop foul was dropped by catcher Bateman before he hit the double. Bateman was charged with an error.
Cumulative through 20 starts (162 1/3 innings, 487 outs) 11 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 174K, 141g, 148f(97 outfield, 51 infield), 3 unkown; 131 Pulled, 69 Up the middle; 92 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 11 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 46 walks (3 intentional); 127 hits (91 1b, 24 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 50 runs (48 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 127-534 (.238) +46 walks (3 intentional): WHIP: (Walks* + Hits per Inning)=1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=130 pitches.
Padres were 9-34 (2 double plays)
Outs: 27 (11 right handed batters, 0 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 5g, 12f(5 infield, 7 outfield); 8 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 5 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (9 outfield hits) (7 1b, 2 2b); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field; 1 stolen base
+++
Start 19
July 3: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 4 SF 2: Carlton 10-6 (2.70) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Carrithers (Wikipedia) (R) 2-6 (5.60)
This was Carlton's 12th complete game, a 6 hitter with 2 walks and 7 strikeouts. But for Dave Kingman (who hit two solo home runs), he would have had a shutout. The win broke a Phillies 4 game losing streak which began after Carlton's last win (see Start 18 below). He now has struck out 166 in 153 1/3 innings. The Phillies got only 5 hits, all in the first inning when they scored all their runs. Carlton has now received 63 runs of support in 19 starts.
Don Carrithers (6'2", 180 lbs, 28-32, 4.45, 3 saves, 1970-1977). I have been unable to find any information on Carrithers' repertoire or arm angle. In 1972 he was 4-8 with 1 save and a 5.80 earned run average. His best year was 1974, with Montreal, when he went 5-2 with a 3.00 ERA and 1 save in 60 innings, almost exclusively as a reliever.
SF 000 100 001--2-6-0--(30-46--30-47) 5 W -16.0 g
Phi 400 000 00x--4-5-0--(24-45--25-45) 6 E -19.0 g
Time: 2:08; Attendance: 43,016; Monday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ed Sudol (Wikipedia) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). Sudol was a minor league 3rd baseman for 12 years (with 26 different teams) before going into umpiring in 1953. He made the majors as an umpire in 1957 and worked in the National League for 21 seasons. For more on him see the Baseball Hall of Fame audio interview. (Part 1) (Part 2).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--81F; 8:00--78; 9:00--74
Wind: 7:00--9MPH (from the SSW); 8:00--12 (SW); 9:00--9 (SW);
Blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--69%; 8:00--81%; 9:00--87%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play July 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Carlton Cops 10th, Phils Top Giants"
Post-Gazette Headline: "State's Budget Crisis Goes Before Committee: Funds Freeze Affects Some Bills, Salaries" by David Runkale (July 4, 1972, P. 1).
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The Phillies first five batters in the game got 4 hits sandwiched around a walk, scoring 3 runs and knocking Carrithers out of the game. When Right Fielder Joe Lis doubled in another run off reliever Frank Reberger (Wikipedia), they had runners on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out. Carlton might have thought this would be an easy walkover. But the Phillies offense, as it had done so many times this season, completely stalled. The did not score again, did not get another hit, received only 3 walks and a hit batsman, and had their last 15 batters in a row go down. The blowout turned into a tough victory as Dave Kingman (who was 1-6 with 4 strikeouts in his first two games against Carlton), hit two solo home runs to keep the Giants within striking range. The Giants also hit 2 doubles off him, but could never string anything together. It was Carlton's 5th consecutive win (not counting 3 no decisions) and got him to 10 for the season, 40% of the Phillies total to this point. His 6 losses were 13.33% of the team's. His strikeouts (7) were sub-par compared to his norm, but he also induced 5 ground balls (that led to 7 outs--2 double plays) and 7 infield pop ups. The Giants 3,4,5 batters, Chris Speier, Willie McCovey (H) and Kingman went 2-11 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 47-202 (.233) against Carlton, with 6 home runs (5 solo and 1 two run) and 22 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.74-2.70.
Bobby Bonds continued his good run against Carlton this season. He is now 4-10 with a double, a home run, and only 1 strikeout in three games against Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
Giants
1. B. Bonds R,9......(1)2b(7)..(3)1b(7).....(5)W....(8)f(8)
2. J. Howarth L,8....(1)f(8)...(3)gDP(4-6-3)
2. K. Henderson B,PH,8......................(5)K....(8)K
3. C. Speier R,6.....(1)Kc.....(4)f(4)......(6)Kc...(9)f(3)*
4. W. McCovey(H) L,3.(1)W......(4)g(3)......(6)f(7).(9)K
5. D. Kingman R,7....(1)f(L5)..(4)HR(?).....(6)f(4).(9)HR(?)
6. Da.Rader L,2......(2)g(6-3).(4)f(6)*.....(7)1b(9)(9)f(9)
7. A. Gallagher R,5..(2)g(6-3).(5)f(7)......(7)K
8. T. Fuentes B,6....(2)f(2)*..(5)2b(7).....(7)gDP(5-4-3)
8. R. Moffitt R,1
9. D. Carrithers R,1
9. F. Reberger L,1...(3)Kc
9. C. Arnold R,PH..............(5)f(8)
9. D. McMahon R,1
9. D. Blanco R,4............................(8)f(3)
*=Foul ball
For Carlton
Cumulative through 19 starts (153 1/3 innings, 460 outs) 12 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 166K, 136g, 136f(90 outfield, 46 infield); 3 unknown; 123 Pulled, 65 Up the middle, 87 Opposite field (1 appeal, 9 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 45 Walks (3 intentional) 118 hits (84 1b, 22 2b, 2 3b, 10HR); 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 48 runs (46 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 118-500 (.236) +45 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.06
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (33*3.3) + (7*1.5) + (1*2.2)=122 pitches
Giants were 6-31 (2 double plays)
Outs: 27 (9 right handed hitters, 3 left handed hitters)
Outs: 7K, 5g, 13f(7 infield, 6 outfield); 7 Pulled, 4 Up the middle; 7 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 6 hits (6 outfield hits) (2 1b, 2 2b 2HR); 4 Pulled, 2 unknown
---
Giants right handed hitters: 22 plate appearances: 5-21; 1 double play
Outs: 5K, 2g, 9f(6 infield, 3 outfield); 5 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 4 opposite field outs; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (1 1b, 2 2b; 2HR); 3 Pulled, 2 Unkown
Giants left handed hitters: 11 plate appearances: 1-10; 1 double play
Outs: 2K, 3g, 4f(1 infield, 3 outfield); 3 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base: 1 Walk, 1 hits (1 outfield hit1) (1 1b); 1 Pulled
Start 18
June 29: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 9 NY 4: Carlton 9-6 (2.74)
Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Gary Gentry (R) 3-6 (4.06) Gary Gentry in action (Game 3, 1969 World Series)
Carlton pitched his 9th complete game, but he labored, throwing 171 pitches and giving up 7 hits while walking 6 (his most this season) and striking out 13. He has now struck out 159 in 144 1/3 innings. The Phillies produced their biggest offensive day of the season, with 9 runs (tying the most runs they've scored in a game this season) (and now 59 runs in 18 Carlton starts) and 17 hits (their most in a game this season). They scored in 5 different innings and everyone in the lineup had at least 1 hit (including Carlton's 2, the second of which gave the Phillies the lead for good).
Gary Gentry's Repertoire (6'0", 175 lbs, 46-49, 3.56, 1969-1975)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Changeup
"His stuff was every bit as good as (Tom) Seaver's (H)...He had just as live an arm...I used to warm him up in the bullpen...let me tell you something, his ball was all over the place. It just jumped and ran..."
Ron Swoboda (one of the heroes of the 1969 World Series, who also hit 2 home runs to beat Carlton and the Cardinals on September 15, 1969, during the Mets' 38-11 finish that won the Eastern Division Championship over the Cubs. Carlton, in that game, struck out 19 batters, and MLB record at the time. (Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team, by Peter Golenbeck, via NJ P. 216-217).
Gentry never lived up to his hype and the World Series game linked to above was the most important game he ever pitched. It was the first World Series game in Shea Stadium and the Mets and Baltimore Orioles were tied at one game apiece. Gentry got the win in that game, with a giant assist from Center Fielder Tommie Agee, who made a fantastic catch in the 4th inning (he made another in the 7th inning with Nolan Ryan [H] pitching--the two catches saved 5 potential runs. Agee also led off the Mets first inning with a home run, the only run the Mets needed in their 5-0 victory).
Arm angle: appears to be three-quarters to overhand.
NY 001 201 000--4--7-0--(40-25--40-26)--2 E -1.0 g
Phi 001 141 20x--9-17-0--(23-41--24-41)--6 E -16.5 g
Time: 2:51; Attendance: 14,451 (retrosheet.org), 14,457 (New York Times); Thursday Night Game: 7:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Stan Landes
(retrosheet.org). Landes, in the final season of an 18 year career, had 1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--68F; 8:00-10:00--67
Wind: 7:00--12MPH (from the E); 8:00--13 (E); 9:00-10:00--8 (E);
Blowing from Left to Right
Humidity: 7:00--90%; 8:00--93%; 9:00--90%; 10:00--93%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 29 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
New York Times (proprietary): "Phillies 17 Hits Crush Mets 9-4: Carlton Wins 9th, Fans 13 to Raise League-Leading Strike-Out Total to 159" by Dean McGowan (June 30, P. 41-42).
Reading Eagle: "Errors Hurt the Dodgers," (Associated Press compendium of National League games by Hal Bock, June 30, P. 24, P. 26).
Reading Eagle Feature Story: "(Recently fired [see Start 12 below] General Manager) John Quinn As Trader," by John W. Smith (SportopicS, June 30, P. 24). The article documents and "grades" every one of the 20 trades recently fired Phillies General Manager John Quinn made during his 14 year tenure (1959-72) with the team. For those old enough to remember, this is a real walk down memory lane way "back in the day." His best trade: Outfielder Johnny Callison from the White Sox for infielder Gene Freese (Wikipedia) in 1959. His worst trade with the Phillies: Pitchers Larry Jackson and Bob Buhl from the Cubs for Pitcher Ferguson Jenkins (H), Outfielder Adlolfo Phillips, and Utility Player John Herrnstein in 1966. But what he said was the worst trade of his career came in 1949 when he was General Manager of the Boston NL club. The team traded Infielders Eddie Stanky and Alvin Dark to the New York Giants for Outfielders Sid Gordon and Willard Marshall (Wikipedia), as well as Infielder Buddy Kerr (Wikipedia) and Pitcher Sam (Red) Webb (Wikipedia). Ouch!
Times Headline (proprietary): (Eight Column Headline): "SUPREME COURT, 5-4 BARS DEATH PENALTY AS IT IS IMPOSED UNDER PRESENT STATUTES: COURT SPARES 600: 4 Justices [Chief Justice Warren E. Burger, and Justices Harry Blackmun, Lewis F. Powell, Jr., and William H. Rehnquist] Named by [President Richard] Nixon All Dissent in Historic Decision," by Fred P. Graham (June 30, P. 1, P. 14).
Page 1 also has two other major related stories: "Nixon Backs Death Penalty for Kidnapping, Hijacking," by William Robbins (P. 1, P. 14), and "Parole in Capital Offenses Less Likely, Officials Say," by Martin Arnold (P. 1, P. 15)
The Case: Furman v Georgia (408 U.S. 238, 1972). (Wikipedia link to full text and audio of the arguments and opinions.)
There is also a 3 column wide picture of incarcerated African American Elmer Branch with the caption: "SPARED: Elmer Branch, 19, sentenced to die for nonfatal assault, in Huntsville, Tex., jail. He was one of condemned men whose sentences were upset by Supreme Court." (Times photo source: Associated Press).
Eagle Headline: "(Pennsylvania) Governor's (Milton Shapp) Budget Beaten In Senate," (Associated Press, June 30, P. 1)
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Carlton was not at his best, but got the entire job done, an arduous 171 pitch performance. He was overpowering (13 strikeouts) but wild (6 walks and his 3rd wild pitch of the season). But for once the Phillies backed him--9 runs and 17 hits as they won easily, to knock the Mets out of a first place tie with the Pirates. It was also the Phillies first win of the year against the Mets after 7 consecutive losses. Each Phillie hitter had at least one hit, and Carlton joined the party with two, including a two run single that put the Phillies ahead to stay in the 4th inning.
From the perspective of the modern fan, it is almost inconceivable that his manager, Frank Lucchesi, would leave Carlton in a game this long, throwing that number of pitches, when the game had been broken open and he wasn't having one of his best days. But:
"Steve Carlton tamed the Mets on 7 hits and struck out 13, but he had to throw 171 pitches after a shaky start. Still, he preferred the less than masterful victory to some of his well pitched losses.
'It's better to have the win. It doesn't do us any good unless you win. I felt great, but I couldn't find the plate. I warmed up great, but I didn't pitch great.'"
(Reading Eagle).
The Mets' 3,4,5 hitters, Dave Marshall (ripbaseball.com), Jim Fregosi, (acquired in another of the most lopsided trades in MLB history; he was traded in 1971 from the California Angels to the Mets for 4 players, one of whom was Nolan Ryan [H]), and Jim Beauchamp (Wikipedia) went 2-12 with 6 strike outs and 1 RBI. The heart of the National League order is now 45-191 (.236) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 20 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.66 to 2.74.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H)R,8....[1]W*.....[3]W..[4]f(9)..[6]f(8)..(9)Kc
2. B Harrelson B,6.[1]K..[3]f(8)...[4]W.....[7]g(5-3)(9)f(8)
3. D. Marshall L,9..[1]f(5)%.[3]1b(9)[4]K....[7]W...(9)g(1-3)
4. J. Fegosi R,5....[2]1b(8)...[3]K.[5]g(5-3)[7]f(7)
5. J. Beauchamp R,3.[2]K.......[4]K.[5]Kc... [7]K
6. D. Dyer R,2......[2]K.......[4]1b(9)#.[5]f(4)...[8]K
7. T. Martinez R,7..[2]g(4)....[4]1b(9)#.[6]3b(9)..[8]1b(8)
8. W. Garrett L,4...[3]W.......[4]1b(7)..[6]sf(8)..[8]K
9. G. Gentry R,1....[3]sb(2-6).[4]W
9. B. Rauch R, 1
9. T. Agee R,PH..........................[6]Kc
9. B. Capra R,1
9. E. Kranepool L,PH...............................[8]Kc
9. R. Sadecki L,1
*=Mays out trying to steal while Harrelson at bat. 2-4.
%=Marshall fouled out.
#=Carlton threw his 3rd wild pitch of the season while pitching to Garrett. Dyer advanced to 3rd and Martinez to 2nd.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 18 starts (144 1/3 innings, 433 outs) 9 complete games, 3 shutouts
Outs: 159K, 131g, 123f(84 outfield, 39 infield); 3 unkown; 116 Pulled, 61 Up the middle, 80 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 7 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 43 Walks (3 intentional), 112 hits (82 1b, 20 2b, 2 3b, 8HR); 7 Errors* 1 hit by pitch; 46 runs (44 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 112-469 (.239) +43 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 39 batters: Actual documented pitch count: 171: Pitch Count Estimate= (39*3.3) + (13*1.5) + (6* 2.2)=161 pitches.
Mets were 7-31 (1 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt, 1 sacrifice fly)
Outs: 27 (9 right handed hitters, 3 left handed hitters)
Outs: 13K, 5g, 8f(2 infield, 6 outfield); 3 Pulled, 6 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
On Base: 6 Walks, 7 hits (7 outfield hits) (6 1b, 1 3b); 1 wild pitch (advanced 2 runners); 1 sacrifice bunt; 1 sacrifice fly
---
Mets right handed hitters: 29 plate appearances: 5-24
Outs: 10K, 4g, 6f(1 infield, 5 outfield); 3 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 3 opposite field outs; 1 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
On Base: 4 Walks; 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (4 1b, 1 3b); 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
Mets left handed hitters: 10 plate appearances: 2-7
Outs: 3K, 1g, 2f(1 infield, 1 outfield); 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field; 1 sacrifice fly
On Base: 2 Walks, 2 hits (2 outfield hits) (2 1b); 1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
+++
Start 17
June 25: at Montreal Parc Jarry: Phi 1 Mon 0: Carlton 8-6 (2.66) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ernie McAnally (Wikipedia) (R) 1-9 (3.96).
Carlton pitched his 10th complete game and 3rd shutout, throttling the Expos on 4 hits, walking 3 and striking out 8. He has now struck out 146 in 135 1/3 innings, while receiving 50 runs of support in 17 starts. This relatively quiet game was marred by a bean ball war and two ejections. Carlton's public response to this "war" gives excellent insight into the attitudes about deliberately hitting batters "back in the day."
Ernie McAnally (6'1", 190 lbs, 30-49, 4.03, 1971-1974)
I have been unable to find out anything about McAnally's repertoire or arm angle. His best year, according to the Wikipedia biography, was 1971, when he started the year 1-7 and finished with an 11-12 record.
Phi 000 010 000--1-5-2--(21-38--22-38) 6 E -17.0 g
Mon 000 000 000--0-4-0--(27-33--27-34) 5 E -12.5 g
Time: 2:35; Attendance: 19,355; Sunday Day Game: 2:15pm; Home Plate Umpire: Dick Stello
(retrosheet.org). Stello led the National League in ejections in 1972 with 7, including 2 for balls and strikes. He ejected Expos Manager Gene Mauch and McAnally in this game. Interestingly, Stello (Wikipedia) was married for a time to Liliana Wilczkowska, also known as Chesty Morgan.(Wikipedia)
Weather conditions (Source: Government of Canada Historical Climate Data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00--67F; 3:00--67; 4:00--63; 5:00--62
Wind: 2:00--12MPH (from the NNE); 3:00--16 (NE); 4:00--13 (NE); 5:00--9 (ENE) (Source for Wind Direction--University of Minnesota); Blowing in
Humidity: 2:00--75%; 3:00--73%; 4:00--77%; 5:00--84
2:00--Mostly Cloudy; 3:00-5:00--Rain
Standings at the Close of Play June 25 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Carlton Aiming For Tim Foli's Ribs" (Associated Press compendium of National League game stories for June 25, Hal Bock, June 26, P. 24).
Eagle headline: "City Water System is Pumping: Industrial Ban Lifted on Tuesday: Flood Toll at 122: People Help Others: (United Press International and Christine A. Burger, June 26, P. 1).
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The real story of this game was underlined in the second paragraph of the game story:
"I'm sorry I plunked Foli on the head. I was trying to get him in the ribs, but the ball got away on me."
Steve Carlton.
This quote, which was issued "on the record," gives us a window into the way the game was played in 1972. Of course, they weren't aware of the damage that repeated concussions could cause (there have been news articles about the possibility of the role of concussions in the death of Lou Gehrig [H]--[1] [2]--Cable News Network). Still, Carlton reflects the philosophy of greats like Bob Gibson (H) (see Start #2 below) and Don Drysdale (H).
In the top of the fourth, McAnally hit Phillies 1st Baseman Joe Lis in the back with a pitch.
"He (Mauch) gave the order to hit Lis. You have to retaliate to protect your teammates."
Steve Carlton.
Foli led off the bottom of the 4th and Carlton hit him in the head. Foli [6'0", 179 lbs] "bounced up off the ground and started after Carlton [6'4", 210 lbs], signalling both dugouts to empty with Montreal Manager Gene Mauch leading the charge" (Reading Eagle). Mauch threw a punch at Carlton but missed. At the end of the ensuing brawl, Mauch was thrown out of the game for throwing the first punch. Foli had to leave the game for X-rays (which showed nothing) and Carlton was allowed to continue. In the 5th recently acquired catcher John Bateman (see Start 15 below) produced the game's only run with a home run. Carlton was the next batter up and when McAnally brushed him back he was thrown out of the game. Bateman, who suffered a hyper-extended elbow in the brawl, had to leave the game after his home run.
Carlton had only one difficult inning, the seventh, when a walk, stolen base, single, and another stolen base gave the Expos men on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out. Carlton induced a fly to right, and then struck out the next two batters to end the threat.
The Expos 3,4,5 hitters, Clyde Mashore (Wikipedia), Ron Woods (Wikipedia), and Bob Bailey went 1-10 with 5 strikeouts (Mashore had 2 sacrifice bunts). The heart of the National League order is now 43-179 (.240) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 19 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.85 to 2.66.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Expos batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Expos
1. R. Hunt R,4.......(1)1b(?)..(3)W*......(5)f(1)...(7)K
2. T. Foli R,6.......(1)g(2-6).(4)HBP%
2. H. Torres R,PR,6............(4)PR......(6)?(3)...(8)W
3. C. Mayshore R,9...(1)K......(4)sb(1-4).(6)K.....(8)sb(3-4)
4. R. Woods R,8......(1)K......(4)g(4-3)..(6)1b(7)$.(8)f(6)
5. B. Bailey R,5.....(2)K......(4)g(5-3)..(6)g(5-3).(8)f(L9)
6. K. Singleton B,7..(2)K......(5)f(7)....(7)W@.....(9)K
7. J. Boccabella R,3.(2)f(4)...(5)f(8)....(7)1b(?)@.(9)f(L7)
8. T. Humphrey R,2...(3)g(5-3).(5)1b(?)...(7)f(9)...(9)f(8)
9. E. McAnally R,1...(3)g(5-3)
9. J. Strohmayer R,1
9. T. McCarver L,PH............(5)E(4)
9. T. Walker R,1
9. B. Wine R,PH...........................(7)K
9. M. Marshall R,1
With one out in the Phillies 6th, there was a 46 minute rain delay.
*=Carlton picked Hunt off and he tried to steal. He was then thrown out 1-3-6.
%=Foli hit by pitch, Carlton's 1st hit batter of the season. Brawl ensued, Foli had to leave the game, replaced by pinch runner Torres. Expos Manager Mauch was thrown out of the game for fighting.
$=Woods continued to 2nd on an error by Left Fielder Luzinski.
@=Singleton stole second with Boccabella at bat.
@Boccabella stole second, Singleton remained at 3rd with Humphrey at bat.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 17 starts (135 1/3 innings, 406 outs) 10 complete games, 3 shutouts.
Outs: 146K, 126g, 115f(78 outfield, 37 infield); 3 unknown; 113 Pulled, 55 Up the middle, 76 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 6 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 37 Walks (3 intenional) 105 hits (76 1b, 20 2b, 1 3b, 8HR) 7 Errors*; 1 hit by pitch; 42 runs (40 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 105-438 (.240) +37 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.05
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (3*2.2)=133 pitches
Expos were 4-28 (2 sacrifice bunts, 1 caught stealing).
Outs: 27 (11 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 8K, 8g, 9f(3 infield, 6 outfield), 1 unkown (infield); 7 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 6 opposite field, 1 caught stealing.
On Base: 3 Walks, 4 hits (4 1b); known hits (1 outfield); known direction (1 pulled); 1 error (infield, pulled); 1 hit by pitch; 2 stolen bases
---
Expos right handed hitters: 34 plate appearances: 4-28
Outs: 8K, 8g, 9f(3 infield, 6 outfield), 1 unkown (infield); 7 Pulled, 5 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field, 1 caught stealing.
On Base: 3 walks; 4 hits (4 1b); known hits (1 outfield); known direction (1 pulled); 1 hit by pitch, 2 stolen bases.
Expos left handed hitters: 1 plate appearance 0-1
Outs: none
On Base: 1; 1 error (infield, pulled)
+++
Start 16
June 21: at Atlanta Stadium (the stadium wasn't renamed Atlanta Fulton-County Stadium until 1975--Wikipedia): Phi 9 Atl 7: Carlton 7-6 (2.85) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ron Reed (Wikipedia) (R) 5-7 (3.87) Ron Reed in action (7th inning, Game 5, 1980 NLCS v Astros)
With the Phillies mired in a 6 game losing streak, Carlton attempted, for the 2nd straight start, to stop the slide. In his 5 innings, he received 4 runs (on 7 hits, including 2 home runs in a 3 run 2nd inning). But he couldn't hold the lead and was knocked around for 9 hits and 5 runs (walking 1 and striking out 4) before being asked not to return for the 6th inning. The Phillies did break the losing streak, coming up with 2 runs in the 9th to win 9-7, in an ugly game. Carlton has now struck out 128 in 126 1/3 innings. He has received 49 runs of support in 16 starts.
Ron Reed's Repertoire (6'6", 215 lbs, 146-140, 3.46, 103 saves, 1966-1984). Note Reed also played for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA from 1965-67. Interestingly, he played under Player-Coach Dave DeBusschere, another 2 sport professional.
As a starter: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Slip Pitch (forkball, palm ball, any pitch thrown with a normal motion where the ball "slips" out of the hand).
As a reliever: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"The last kid I saw coming up with so many pitches was Juan Marichal (H). Most kids have one or two pitches when they come up, but Reed had several. And he can control all of them. In that respect he reminds me of Robin Roberts (H), although he doesn't have Roberts' fastball."
Henry Aaron (H) (NJ, P. 354).
Arm angle: three quarters.
Atl 101 122 000--7-11-2--(27-29--27-30) 4 W -8.0 g
Time: 2:52; Attendance: 10,195; Wednesday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Jerry Dale
(retrosheet.org) (0 ejections in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--77F; 29:00--73; 10:00--71; 11:00--69
Wind: 8:00--17MPH (from the WNW); 9:00--14 (WNW); 10:00--9 (WNW); 11:00--9 (WNW); Blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--46%; 9:00--53%; 10:00--53%; 11:00--57
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 21 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Phils Comeback Pleases (Manager Frank) Lucchesi" (by David Moffitt--United Press International, June 22, P. 50)
Eagle headline: Flood Emergency Is Declared: Floods Hit Wide Areas--Close Roads" (by Christine A. Burger (June 22, P. 1)
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The Phillies had two days off due to Hurricane Agnes. When they played Atlanta last evening they were mired in another losing streak, this one in its 6th game, including two losses to the Astros by a combined score of 20-5. In fact their last win came against this same team and the same starter (See Start 14 below). Overall they have lost 26 of their last 31, with losing streaks of 10, 9, and 6. For the second time this season, (see Start 11 below for the 1st), Carlton had a bad outing. Despite being presented with a 2 run lead during a 3 run second inning highlighted by a solo home run off the bat of Willie Montanez and a 2 run home run by recently acquired John Bateman (see Start 15 below), Carlton was unable to go past the 5th inning, giving up runs in all but the second and leaving after five with a 5-4 deficit. It was a wild but entertaining game with 5 lead changes. Runs were scored in every inning but the 8th. And it was not the most aesthetically pleasing game of the season.
"Hank Aaron (H) made two errors in one inning in right field, Philadelphia pinch runner Ken Reynolds (retrosheet.org) fell flat on his face rounding 3rd base, Larry Bowa was fined $100 when his helmet 'slipped' after an argument with [2nd base] Umpire Chris Pelekoudas (retrosheet.org), and Ralph Garr's slide home ended three feet from the plate."
Reading Eagle
This game was interesting in that Atlanta's 1,2,3 hitters (Felix Millan, Ralph Garr, and Henry Arron [H]), were 7-8 with a double and 2 RBI.
Carlton gave up a run in the first on three singles, a run in the third on 2 singles and a sacrifice fly, a run in the fourth on an Orlando Cepeda (H) home run, and 2 in the fifth on a double, 2 singles, and a sacrifice fly. He left after the inning and it was a great relief job by Darrell (Bucky) Brandon (3 2/3 innings no hits, 2 walks 3 strikeouts,) that allowed the Phillies to finally win with 2 runs in the 9th, aided by 3 walks. Mike Ryan then doubled in the winning runs.
Atlanta's 3,4,5 hitters, Henry Aaron (H), Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, went 3-10 with 4 RBI against Carlton. The heart of the National League order is now 42-169 (.249) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 19 RBI. Carlton's ERA went from 2.60 to 2.85.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out Kc=called strikeout when known,W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Atlanta
1. F. Millan R,4.....(1)1b(?)..(3)1b(?)..(5)2b(?)
2. R. Garr L,8.......(1)f(L7)..(3)1b(?)..(5)1b(?)
2. S. Jackson L,8
3. H. Aaron(H) R,9...(1)1b(?)..(3)sf(8)..(5)1b(?)
4. R. Carty R,7......(1)1b(?)..(3)f(9)...(5)W
4. R. Gilbreath PR
5. E. Williams R,5...(1)K......(3)g(6-3).(5)sf(9)
6 O. Cepeda(H) R,3..(1)K......(4)HR(?)..(5)g(1-3)
7. P. Casanova R,2...(2)g(6-3).(4)K......(5)f(6)
8. M. Perez R,6......(2)g(5-3).(4)f(8)
9. R. Reed R,1.......(2)g(4-3)..(4)K
9. G. Stone L,1
9. C. Upshaw R,1
For Carlton
Cumulative through 16 starts (126 1/3 innings, 379 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 138K, 118g, 106f(72 outfield, 34 infield) 2 unkown; 106 Pulled, 50 Up the Middle, 70 Opposite field (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 5 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases).
On Base: 34 Walks (3 intentional); 101 hits (72 1b, 20 2b, 1 3b, 8HR) 6 Errors*; 42 runs (40 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 101-410 (.246) +34 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.07
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 25 batters (5 innings). Estimated Pitch Count: (25*3.3) + (4*1.5) + (1*2.2)=85 pitches
Atlanta was 9-22
Outs: 15 (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs 4K, 5g, 6f (1 infield, 5 outfield); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field) 2 sacrifice flies
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (7 1b, 1 2b, 1HR); Known hits (2 outfield); Known direction of hits (0)
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: 22 plate appearances; 7-19
Outs: 4K, 5g, 5f(1 infield, 4 outfield); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
2 sacrifice flies
On Base: 1 Walk, 7 hits (5 1b, 1 2b, 1 HR), Known hits (2 outfield); Known direction of hits (0)
Atlanta left handed hitter: 3 plate appearances: 2-3
Outs 1f(1 outfield)
On base 2 hits (2 1b)
+++
Start 15
June 16: at Houston Astrodome: Hou 1 Phi 0 (11 innnigs): Carlton 7-6 (2.60) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Don Wilson (R) 4-5 (3.09) Don Wilson in action (1971 All Star Game)
Carlton pitched 10 innings of shutout ball, giving up 6 hits (5 singles and a double) and striking out 12. Unfortunately, the Phillies were shut out also and Carlton didn't get a decision. He now has 134 strikeouts in 121 1/3 innings. He has received 44 runs of support in 15 starts. For the first 10 innings the Phillies had 9 hits and 3 walks. They left 6 men on base in the last 3 innings and 13 for the game.
Don Wilson's Repertoire: (6'2", 195 lbs, 104-92, 3.15, 2 saves, 1966-1974).
1. Fastball; 2. Hard Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Changeup.
"Wilson had many spectacular games in his career--two no-hitters, an 18 strikeout effort, other great games. In most of his best games, Wilson threw nothing or almost nothing but fastballs. His fastball was fast, about 93, and it had fantastic movement--sometimes diving, sometimes sailing, sometimes breaking sharply out on a right-handed hitter. When his fastball was moving, he just aimed for the middle of the plate... Although he experimented with a curve and changeup from 1967 until his death (1975), neither of these pitches ever amounted to much. He did have to rely on off-speed pitches in 1970, when he had arm trouble, and did surprisingly well" (11-6, 3.91). (NJ, P. 428-429).
Arm angle: three quarters
Phi 000 000 000 00--0-11-0 (20-33--20-34) 6 E -15.5 g
Hou 000 000 000 01--1--7-0 (31-23--32-23) T2 W -2.5 g
Time: 2:51; Attendance: 14,891; Friday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Bruce Froemming (0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather Conditions: Inside
Standings at the Close of Play June 16 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
Reading Eagle: "(Jim) Wynn's Second Explosion Atones For First One" (Associated Press compendium of all National League Games, by Hal Bock, June 17, P. 6).
Eagle headline. "Pilot Strike Curb Sought" (Associated Press, June 17, P.1)
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Carlton pitched an excellent game for 10 innings but got no support from his offense. He was lifted for a pinch hitter in the top of the 11th and then replaced by Dick Selma. 4 pitches later Jim Wynn (aka "The Toy Cannon") hit one into the left field seats to end the proceedings. That Wynn was still in the game at that point was commented on in the game story, as he had a run in with Home Plate umpire Bruce Froemming on a called third strike 7 innings before. Wynn dropped his bat on home plate and threw his helmet. Froemming pointed at him but did not eject him, only indicating a $100 fine.
For Carlton, it was the usual story, only amplified this time. The Phillies left 11 men on base during his 10 innings. They had runners in scoring position in each of their last 3 at bats. Carlton was in real trouble only once, when he left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th by inducing a fly ball to center by Tommy Helms. He had allowed the Astros 3 men left on base in total for the first 8 innings.
The Astros 3,4,5 batters (Wynn, Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) went 2-12 with 3 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 39-159 (.245) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.83 to 2.60.
Parenthetically, on June 14 the Phillies traded Tim McCarver, their regular catcher, to Montreal in a straight up deal for the Expos John Bateman (who was the Houston Colt .45s first regular catcher). After his retirement in 1973 he played fast pitch softball in Texas and was Eddie Feigner's catcher for "The King and His Court", a traveling fast pitch softball team that used only 4 players. McCarver would come back to Philadelphia and be part of their division winning teams from 1976-78. During that time, he was Carlton's personal catcher. He retired shortly into their World Championship 1980 season.
In this game Bateman's arm (recognized as one of the best in the National League), was tested twice. He threw both runners out.
"I thought I was a little weak. The last two innings, I had to reach back for that something extra and that takes a little out of you."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)1b(?)*.(3)f(L7)..(6)K......(8)K....(10)K
2. C. Cedeno R,8.(1)K.......(4)f(L6)..(6)1b(9)*.(9)2b(?)(10)g(4-3)
3. J. Wynn R,9....(1)g(6-3).(4)Kc.....(7)1b(7)..(9)IW
4. L. May R,3.....(2)f(5)...(4)g(5-3).(7)K......(9)K
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)g(5-3).(5)g(5-3).(7)f(9)...(9)f(L7)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)K......(5)W......(7)W......(9)W
7, T. Helms R,4...(3)1b(?)..(5)f(8)...(7)?(2)...(9)f(8)
8. L. Howard R,2..(3)g(4-3).(5)K......(8)f(9)...(10)1b(8)#
9. D. Wilson R,1..(3)K......(6)K
9. T. Griffin R,1.....................(8)K......(10)sb(3-4)
*=Metzger was caught stealing 2-4 during Cedeno's at bat.
*=Cedeno was caught stealing 2-4.
#=Carlton balked Howard to second during Griffith's at bat, Carlton's 2nd balk of the season.
For Carlton:
Cumulative through 15 starts (121 1/3 innings, 364 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 134K, 113g, 100f(67 outfield, 33 infield) 2 unkown; 102 Pulled, 47 Up the middle, 66 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 5 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 33 Walks (3 intentional); 92 hits (65 1b, 19 2b, 1 3b, 7HR) 6 Errors*, 37 runs (35 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 92-388 (.237) +33 walks (3 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning) =1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 38 batters (10 innings, but not a complete game): Pitch Count Estimate (38*3.3) + (12*1.5) + (4*2.2)=152 pitches
Astros were 6-33
Outs: 27 (9 right handers, 1 both) 2 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
Outs 12K, 6g, 8f(2 infield, 6 outfield) 1 unknown; 8 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field ; 2 caught stealing, 1 sacrifice bunt
On Base: 4 Walks (1 intentional); 6 hits (5 1b, 1 2b): Known hits (3 outfield, 0 infield); Known direction: 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field.
+++
Start 14:
June 11: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 3 Atl 1: Carlton 7-6 (2.83) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Ron Reed (Wikipedia) (R) 4-7 (4:02) Ron Reed in action (7th inning, Game 5, 1980 NLCS v Astros)
Carlton pitched his 8th complete game and got his record back over .500. He walked 1, struck out 9, and spaced 9 hits. He received his usual quota of 3 runs of support. He now has 122 strikeouts in 111 1/3 innings. It was the Phillies 4th win in their last 5 games, their modest 3 game winning streak being snapped by a 15-3 thrashing the night before. This was the first of a long series of wins that came after Phillies losses or ended Phillies losing streaks. In this way, he was one of the greatest "stoppers" in baseball history in 1972.
Ron Reed's Repertoire (6'6", 215 lbs, 146-140, 3.46, 103 saves, 1966-1984). Note Reed also played for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA from 1965-67. Interestingly, he played under Player-Coach Dave DeBusschere, another 2 sport professional.
As a starter: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve; 4. Slip Pitch (forkball, palm ball, any pitch thrown with a normal motion where the ball "slips" out of the hand).
As a reliever: 1. Fastball; 2. Slider
"The last kid I saw coming up with so many pitches was Juan Marichal (H). Most kids have one or two pitches when they come up, but Reed had several. And he can control all of them. In that respect he reminds me of Robin Roberts (H), although he doesn't have Roberts' fastball."
Henry Aaron (H) (NJ, P. 354).
Arm angle: three quarters
Atl 000 000 100--1-9-0 (23-25--23-26)--4 W -7.5 g
Phi 000 210 00x--3-5-0 (19-30--20-30)--6 E -13.0 g
Time: 1:51; Attendance: 32,648; Sunday Day Game: 1:30pm. Home Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--62F; 2:00--65; 3:00--67
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the NW); 2:00--16 (WNW); 3:00--8 (NW); Blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--39%; 2:00--37%; 3:00--34%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 11 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
Reading Eagle: "Reds Excel On Road: Hike Lead Over L.A." (compendium of National League game stories by Ken Rappoport, Associated Press, June 12, P. 22). Note: type in "22" as the page number and then scan to the story. Unfortunately, this page was not linked story by story.
Reading Eagle: "Phillies May Get New Faces" (United Press International, June 12, P. 27) (this links directly to the article).
Eagle headline: "Flood Toll (Rapid City, South Dakota) Rising" (Associated Press, June 12, P. 1)
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Coming off a 15-3 home shellacking on Saturday night which broke a modest 3 game winning streak, the Phillies (19-30) were looking for a stopper. And Carlton did the job. Though not at his most dominant (Atlanta had base runners in 7 of the 9 innings and peppered him for 9 hits--8 of which were singles), Carlton met every challenge and kept them off the scoreboard with one exception. A Paul Casanova double and Felix Millan single gave them their only run in the 7th. By that time the Phillies had 3. They got 2 in the 4th on a walk, a single, a wild pitch, and another single and 1 in the 5th on a walk, a sacrifice bunt (by Carlton), a single, and a sacrifice fly. The only real trouble Carlton had was in the above mentioned 7th. With Millan aboard and 2 outs Ralph Garr, the potential tying run, stepped to the plate. Carlton induced a ground ball to end the inning. Carlton got off to his usual fast start, striking out 4 of 5 in in the 2nd and 3rd (including 2 with 2 men on to finish the 2nd), but spaced the rest of his strikeouts. It was a very efficient performance against a hard hitting team, as he polished the win off in less than 2 hours. Atlanta's 3,4,5 hitters, Henry Aaron (H), Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, went 3-11 with 3 strikeouts. 2 of the 3 hits were infield singles by Aaron. The heart of the National League order is now 37-147 (,252) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. Carlton's ERA dropped from 2.99 to 2.83.
"The key was keeping the first two batters off base [2-8]. You know, with guys like Hank Aaron, Rico Carty, and Earl Williams, they are going to get their hits."
Steve Carlton.
On Saturday night, June 6, Henry Aaron (H) hit his 648th career home run of the Phillies Wayne Twitchell. It moved him past Willie Mays (H) into second place on the all time list behind Babe Ruth's 714. (Chicago Tribune [proprietary]). Added July 21, 2020
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only Atlanta's batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Atlanta
1. F. Millan R,4...(1)f(9)...(3)1b(7)..(5)f(4)....(7)1b(7)
2. R. Garr L,9.....(1)g(6-3).(3)f(7)...(5)g(1-3)..(7)g(4-6)
3. H. Aaron(H) R,3.(1)f(5)...(3)1b(5)..(6)Kc......(8)1b(5)
4. R. Carty R,7....(2)W......(3)g(4-6).(6)1b(8).(8)gDP(5-4-3)
5. E. Williams R,5.(2)K......(4)g(6-3).(6)g(5-4)*.(8)K
6. M. Lum L,8......(2)1b(8)..(4)K......(6)g(4-3)..(9)g(6-3)
7. P. Casanova R,2.(2)K......(4)1b(8)..(7)2b(7)...(9)1b(7
8. M. Perez R,6....(2)K......(4)f(8)...(7)K.......(9)gDP(4-3)
9. R. Reed R,1.....(3)K......(5)g(4-3)
9. O. Cepeda(H) PH.....................(7)K
9. M. McQueen L,1
*=Carlton threw a wild pitch (2nd this season), allowing Williams to move to 2nd
For Carlton
Cumulative through 14 starts (111 1/3 innings, 334 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 122K, 106g, 92f(61 outfield, 31 infield) 1 unknown; 94 Pulled, 44 Up the middle, 61 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 29 Walks (2 intentional); 86 hits (60 1b, 18 2b, 1 3b, 7HR), 6 errors*, 37 runs (35 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total opposing batting average: 86-355 (.242) +29 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Innings Pitched)=1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (35*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (1*2.2)= 131 pitches.
Atlanta was 9-34
Outs: 27 (8 right handed hitters, 2 left handed hitters)
Outs: 9K, 11g, 5f (2 infield, 3 outfield); 6 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 8 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (2 infield, 7 outfield), (8 1b, 1 2b); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: 27 plate appearances: 8-26
Outs: 8K, 6g, 4f(2 infield, 2 outfield); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 8 hits (7 1b [2 infield], 1 2b); 6 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
Atlanta left handed hitters: 8 plate appearances: 1-8
Outs: 1K, 5g, 1f (1 outfield); 2 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks, 1 hit (1 1b), 1 Up the middle
+++Cumulative through 14 starts (111 1/3 innings, 334 outs) 8 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 122K, 106g, 92f(61 outfield, 31 infield) 1 unknown; 94 Pulled, 44 Up the middle, 61 Opposite field) (1 appeal, 7 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 29 Walks (2 intentional); 86 hits (60 1b, 18 2b, 1 3b, 7HR), 6 errors*, 37 runs (35 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total opposing batting average: 86-355 (.242) +29 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Innings Pitched)=1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate (35*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (1*2.2)= 131 pitches.
Atlanta was 9-34
Outs: 27 (8 right handed hitters, 2 left handed hitters)
Outs: 9K, 11g, 5f (2 infield, 3 outfield); 6 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 8 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 9 hits (2 infield, 7 outfield), (8 1b, 1 2b); 4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
---
Atlanta right handed hitters: 27 plate appearances: 8-26
Outs: 8K, 6g, 4f(2 infield, 2 outfield); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 5 Opposite field; 2 double plays
On Base: 1 Walk, 8 hits (7 1b [2 infield], 1 2b); 6 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field
Atlanta left handed hitters: 8 plate appearances: 1-8
Outs: 1K, 5g, 1f (1 outfield); 2 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 0 Walks, 1 hit (1 1b), 1 Up the middle
Start 13:
June 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 3 Hou 1: Carlton 6-6 (2.99) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jerry Reuss (L) 3-5 (4.45) Jerry Reuss in action (final 3 outs of his no-hitter v Giants June 27, 1980) (Jerry Reuss Youtube).
Carlton pitched 7 innings of 5 hit ball, giving up 1 run and striking out 11 while walking 3, as the Phillies broke their 9 game losing streak. He now has 113 strikeouts in 102 1/3 innings. He has received 39 runs of support in 13 starts. It was his first win since May 7. In that stretch he was 0-5 with 1 no decision. On May 7 the Phillies were 13-7 and within .17 points of first place in the National League East. This win, the Phillies' 2nd in the last 21 games. boosted them to 17-29, 1 1/2 games behind 5th place St. Louis and 15 games out of 1st place in the NL East. Their season lay in ruins. Carlton's season was just beginning.
Jerry Reuss' Repertoire: (6'5", 200 lbs, 220-191, 11 saves, 1969-1990).
1. "Key Pitch" until the mid 1980s: Fastball
"I'll bet he didn't throw more than two or three curves all day."
Dodger catcher Steve Yeager after Reuss beat the Yankees 2-1 with a complete game 5 hitter (video) to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead in the 1981 World Series (The Sporting News, November 7, 1981 via NJ, P. 356).
"Reuss' fastball was "his bread and butter pitch"..."breaking this far"
Ron Perranoski, Dodgers pitching coach in 1982, ("holding his hands one foot apart") (Gordon Verrell, The Sporting News, September 27, 1982 via NJ, P. 356)
After 3 elbow surgeries in the 1980s
1. Cut or sinking fastball; 2. Slow curve; 3. Changeup.
Arm angle: overhand
Hou 000 000 100--1-6-0--(27-19--27-20)--3 W -1.5 g
Phi 000 003 00x--3-5-2--(16-29--17-29)--6 E -15.0 g
Time: 2:09; Attendance: 10,712; Wednesday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Shag Crawford (Retrosheet.org) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972). For more on Crawford see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1: Part 2.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--76F; 8:00--74; 9:00--71
Wind: 7:00--16MPH (from the NNW); 8:00--14 (N); 9:00 8 (N); Blowing in
Humidity: 7:00--26%; 8:00--26%; 9:00--26%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories
Reading Eagle: "(Tony) Perez Shows Power With Mates on Base" (compendium of MLB game stories by Bruce Lowitt (Associated Press, June 8, P. 44, 48 (Col. 1)
Reading Eagle: "Phillies Stop Losing!" (Associated Press, June 8, P. 47)
Reading Eagle: "(Recently appointed General Manager Paul) Owens Eyes Trade to Aid Phillies" (United Press International, June 8, P. 45).
"The key hit is missing. When you leave 55 men on base in a five-game series, outhit the other team, and lose four out of five, well..."
Paul Owens. (Wikipedia).
An obscure ex-pitcher named Dallas Green is named Phillies Farm Director, the job Owens was promoted from. Green would later lead two long time National League bottom feeders (Phillies and Cubs) to heights they had not seen in decades.
Eagle Headline: US Steps Up Air Raids (in North Vietnam) (Associated Press, June 8, P. 1)
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It had to end some time. And Carlton was on the mound when it did. Seven great innings of 5 hit (all singles), 11 strikeout ball (in the first 6 innings he gave up 3 hits and struck out 10) helped to make the one Phillies scoring inning (a 3 run Phillies 6th that featured 2 walks, a successful sacrifice bunt, 2 stolen bases, and clutch hits from Left Fielder Gregg Luzinski and 1st Baseman Deron Johnson) enough to win. It was probably the best offensive inning for the team in the last month. Interestingly, Manager Frank Lucchesi pulled Carlton for a pinch hitter in the 7th after he had given up 1 run in the only inning he allowed multiple hits in. He also walked a batter and threw a wild pitch in the inning. But with the game perhaps on the bases, Carlton got a strike out and a double play to end the threat. Reliever Darryl "Bucky" Brandon (a member of the Red Sox "Impossible Dream" pitching staff in 1967) gave up 1 hit in the last two innings to complete the victory.
The 3,4,5 hitters for the Astros, Cesar Cedeno (Wikipedia), Lee May, and Bob Watson (Wikipedia) were 1-10 with 5 strikeouts. The heart of the National League order is now 34-136 (.250) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI against Carlton. His earned run average dropped back below 3.00 (2.99). It would never again approach 3.00.
"Tonight I stayed on top. Got my rhythm back and had a real good idea of what I was doing with the ball."
Steve Carlton.
"God, what a difference winning makes."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager.
"STRIKE UP THE BAND"
Sports headline, Philadelphia Inquirer
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Astros batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Astros
1. R. Metzger B,6.(1)K......(3)(Kc)...(6)f(8)..(7)g(DP-4-6-3)
2. J. Alou R,9....(1)1b(5)*.(3)g(6-3).(6)1b(9)
3. C. Cedeno R,8..(1)f(L6)#.(4)K .....(6)W
4. L. May R.3.....(1)K......(4)K......(6)f(4)
5. B. Watson R,7..(2)W......(4)K......(6)g(6-4)
6. D. Rader R,5...(2)K......(5)K......(7)1b(6)@
7. L. Howard R,2..(2)g(1-3).(5)f(2)$..(7)W
8. J. Stewart R,4.(2)f(4)...(5)1b(7)..(7)1b(7)
9. J. Reuss L,1...(3)K......(5)K
9. B. Fenwick R,PH....................(7)K
*=Alou went to second on a throwing error by Don Money
#=Cedeno lined to short after 1st baseman Deron Johnson dropped a foul pop up for an error
$=foul ball
@=Rader advanced to 2nd on a wild pitch with Howard at bat.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 13 starts (102 1/3 innings, 307 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 113K, 95g, 87f(58 outfield, 29 infield) 1 unknown; 88 pulled, 42 Up the middle, 53 Opposite field (1 appeal, 5 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 28 walks (2 intentional); 77 hits (52 1b, 17 2b, 1 3b, 7HR), 6 errors* 36 runs (34 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total opposing batting average: 77-321 (.240) +28 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning Pitched=1.03
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 28 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate (28*3.3) + (11*1.5) + (3*2.2)=115 pitches.
Astros were 5-26
Outs: 21 (9 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 11K, 4g, 5f (4 infield, 1 outfield), 1 double play; 3 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 3 walks, 5 hits (2 infield, 3 outfield) (5 1b); 4 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
---
Astros right handed hitters: 26 plate appearances: 5-23
Outs: 9K, 4g. 5f(4 infield, 1 outfield); 3 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field, 1 double play
On base: 3 walks, 5 hits (2 infield, 3 outfield) (5 1b) 4 pulled, 0 up the middle, 1 Opposite field
Astros left handed batters: 2 plate appearances: 0-2
Outs: 2K
On base: 0
+++
June 3: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Cin 6 Phi 5 (10 innings): Carlton 5-6 (3.12) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Wayne Simpson (R) 2-1 (4.08)
The Phillies lost their 17th in the last 18 games, their 7th in a row. In the last 2 games they have played 27 innings (3 games) and lost both. Carlton got a no decision after giving up 3 runs in the 7th inning, allowing a 2 run home run to Julian Javier (one of only 2 that Javier would hit in the final season of a 13 year career). Carlton gave up double to start the 8th and the bullpen then came in and graphically showed why Manager Frank Lucchesi stuck with Carlton even though he may have been tiring. Carlton has now struck out 102 in 95 1/3 innings. In 12 starts, he has had 36 runs to work with.
Wayne Simpson's Repertoire: (6'3", 220 lbs, 36-31, 4.37, 1970-1977)
1. Four Seam Fastball; 2. Two Seam Fastball; 3. Changeup (Changeup Source: Simpson SABR biography)
Arm angle: Unknown
In his rookie season, 1970, Simpson tore the National League apart, going 13-1 as the Reds began their season 70-30. He threw a 2 hitter on Opening day and a 1 hitter in his 3rd start. After the All-Star break, he tore his rotator cuff, ending his season. Years before rotator cuff surgery, he survived on guile and cortizone. But he was never the same.
"Wayne Simpson wore me out. No one threw harder than he did in 1970."
"I've never seen more explosive stuff."
Johnny Bench, Reds Hall of Fame Catcher during the "Big Red Machine" era.
Cin 000 000 311 1--6-13-0 (25-18--26-18)--2 W -1.5 g
Phi 302 000 000 0--5--7-0 (16-27--16-28)--5 E -15.0 g
Time: 2:52; Attendance: 16,623; Day Game: 2:15pm. Home Plate Umpire: John McSherry (Retrosheet); (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 2:00pm--81F; 3:00--82; 4:00--83; 5:00--83
Wind: 2:00--9MPH (from the WSW); 3:00--12 (WSW); 4:00 12 (SW); 5:00 12 (W) blowing out
2:00-4:00 blowing out; 5:00 across from right to left
Humidity: 2:00--54%; 3:00--52%; 4:00--53%; 5:00--53%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play June 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Reading Eagle: "Reds Top Phillies in 10th" (Associated Press, June 4, P. 59).
Reading Eagle: "(John) Quinn out, (Paul) Owens GM (General Manager) of Phillies" (Associated Press, P. 59).
John Quinn (SABR); Paul Owens (Wikipedia)
Eagle Headline: "Air Pirate Reaches Algiers" (Associated Press, June 4, P. 1)
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This was a game where both teams were going in opposite directions. The Reds won their 6th in a row and 8th in 9 games, while the Phillies lost their 17th in the last 18 and 7th in a row. The Reds, completely stifled by Carlton (6 innings, 2 singles, 8 strikeouts), suddenly came alive in the 7th, knocking him around for 4 hits, including 2 home runs (one by Johnny Bench--his 13th of the season and 7th in the last 5 games, at the time tying a National League record set by the Cardinals' "Sunny" Jim Bottomley (H) in 1929) and a double to cut a 5-0 Phillies lead (fashioned by a 3 run home run by 1st Baseman Tommie Hutton with 2 outs in the 1st, and a 2 run triple to right by Shortstop Larry Bowa with 2 outs in the 4th) to 5-3. Carlton left after giving up a lead off double in the 8th inning, and the Phillies' bullpen then poured gasoline on the fire by giving up a run on a triple. That fire was then put out, but they allowed the Reds to tie the game in the 9th on a home run by Center Fielder-3rd Baseman Hal McRae. (Wikipedia). The hero of the night, Julian Javier, won the game with an RBI single in the 10th. He was 3-4 with a home run and 3 RBI. He hit a two run homer off Carlton in the 7th.
For the Phillies, who lost 2-1 in 17 innings to the Reds the night before, this loss was the low point of the season so far. That Carlton lost the magic in the 7th but was allowed to finish the inning and start the next is another indicator of what was expected of starting pitchers in this era. 6 of the last 9 batters he faced got on base, including 2 home runs and 2 doubles. But he still left with a lead and 8 strikeouts for the afternoon. 5 runs of support ended up wasted. The 3,4,5 batters in the Reds' lineup, Johnny Bench (H), Tony Perez (H), and George Foster were 4-11 with 1 home run, 1 double, and 1 RBI. The heart of the National League order is now 33-126 (.262) with 4 home runs (3 solo and 1 two run) and 15 RBI. His earned run average topped 3.00 for the first time this season (3.12). After his 6th start, before his losing streak began, it was 1.73.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Reds' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Reds
1. P. Rose B,7.......(1)g(6-3).(3)K......(6)g(6-3).(7)g(4-3)
2. J. Morgan(H) L,4..(1)f(8)...(4)f(8)...(6)f(5)*..(8)2b(7)
3. J. Bench(H) R,2...(1)f(L)5..(4)K......(7)HR(?)
4. T. Perez(H) R,5...(2)g(6-3).(4)g(4-3).(7)g(6-3)
5. G. Foster R,9.....(2)1b(8)..(5)K(2-3).(7)2b(?)
6. J. Javier R,5,3,5.(2)K......(5)1b(9)..(7)HR(?)
7. D. Concepcion R,6.(2)g(6-4).(5)K......(7)g(6-3)
8. C. Geronimo L,8...(3)K......(5)g(3-1)
8. H. McCrae R,PH,8,5....................(7)1b(?)#
9. W. Simpson R, 1...(3)K
9. D. Chaney B,PH..............(6)K
9. E. Sprague R,1....
9. D. Menke R,PH.........................(7)W
*=foul ball
#=Carlton balked McCrae to 2nd during Menke's at bat. It was his 1st balk of the season.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 12 starts (95 1/3 innings, 286 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts.
Outs: 102K, 91g, 82f(57 outfield, 25 infield) 1 unknown; 85 Pulled, 39 Up the middle, 50 Opposite field; (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 25 walks (2 intentional); 72 hits (47 1b, 17 2b, 1 3b, 7HR) 6 errors* 35 runs (33 earned runs).
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average. 72-300 (.240) +25 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning pitched=1.02
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 29 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate (29*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (1*2.2)=110 pitches.
Reds were 7-28
Outs: 21 (11 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K, 9g, 4f (2 infield, 2 outfield) 8 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk; 7 hits (3 1b, 2 2b, 2HR); 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 opposite field, 4 unknown
---
Reds right handed hitters: 23 plate appearances: 6-22
Outs: 7K, 8g(6 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field), 1f (1 infield) 1 Pulled, 0 up the middle, 0 opposite field
On Base: 1 Walk, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR), 0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field, 4 unknown)
Reds left handed hitters: 6 plate appearances: 1-6
Outs: 1K, 1g(1 Pulled), 3f( 1 infield, 2 outfield), 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 1 Oppsite field
On Base: 1 hit (1 2b) 1 Opposite field
+++
Start 11:
May 30: at New York Shea Stadium: NY 7 Phi 0: Carlton (5-6) (2.95) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Jon Matlack (L) (6-0) (1.95) Matlack in action--Game 1 1973 World Series.
Carlton lost his 5th consecutive start, lasting only 4 1/3 innings (his shortest outing so far this season), giving up 6 earned runs on 8 hits as the Phillies lost their 14th in the last 15 games. After breaking a 10 game losing streak with a 12 inning 2-1 win over the Pirates, they have now lost 4 in a row. Carlton has now struck out 94 in 88 1/3 innings.
Jon Matlack's Repertoire: (6'3", 205 lbs, 125-126, 3.18, 3 saves, 1971-1983)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve
Arm angle: three quarters, with a high knee kick.
"There is a much to like about Jon Matlack. He has excellent control, a good breaking pitch, and what ballplayers call a long fastball that moves."
Maury Wills, shortstop, Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Montreal Expos (1959-1972) (Superstars of Baseball, by Bob Broeg, via NJ, P. 296).
Phi 000 000 000--0--3-0--(16-23--16-24) 5 E -13.0 g
NY 202 020 01x--7-11-1--(28-11--29-11) 1 E +4.0 g
Time: 2:14; Attendance: 17,598; Tuesday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Frank Pulli (Retrosheet) (Rookie year, 0 ejections for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (partial data) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--65F; 11:00--52
Wind: 8:00--9MPH (from the S); 11:00--12 (SSE); blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--84%; 11:00--86%
Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 30 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story:
New York Times (proprietary): "Matlack Of The Mets Subdues Phils 7-0: Staub's 4 for 4 Helps Rookie Notch No. 6," by Leonard Koppett (May 31, P. 47, 49).
Times Headline: "25 Die at Israeli Airport As 3 Gunmen From Plane Fire at 250 In A Terminal: 78 Are Wounded; Attackers Are Identified as Japanese--2 Dead One Captured" (United Press International, May 31, P. 1, P. 27).
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Carlton had by far his worst start of the season, as the Phillies lost their 4th in a row, and 14th in the last 15 games. He was torched by the Mets for 8 hits and 6 earned runs in 4 1/3 innings. Jon Matlack (who would be National League Rookie of the Year in 1972 and start 3 games in the 1973 World Series) was masterful, shutting the Phillies out on 3 hits and running his record to 6-0. Along with Tom Seaver's (H) 7-2 current record, the Mets are off to a blazing start in 1972, leading the Pirates by 4 games. Rusty Staub dominated Carlton with 3 hits (a double and 2 singles) and 4 RBI. Staub, one of the few left handed batters to face Carlton this year, has had remarkable success against lefty pitching to this point, a ".359 average against them, best of any Met, with 15 runs batted in, for 53 at bats". (Koppett). The Mets had 2 hits in the 1st, 2 in the 3rd, and 4 in the 5th before Carlton was taken out of the game. He also walked 3 batters. The loss put Carlton under the .500 mark for the season.
The Mets 3,4,5 hitters, Tommie Agee, Staub, and Cleon Jones, were 5-8 with 5 RBI against him. The National League "heart of the order is now 29-115 (.252, up from .187 and .224 in the last two starts), with 3 home runs (2 solo and one 2 run) and 14 RBI. Carlton's earned run average has gone from 2.22 to 2.45 to 2.95 in his last 3 starts.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H) R,8..(1)K......(3)W.....(4)Kc
2, B. Harrelson B,6(1)W......(3)W.....(5)3b(7)
3. T. Agee R,7.....(1)1b(7)..(3)K.....(5)f(3)*
4. R. Staub L,9....(1)2b(9)..(3)1b(9).(5)1b(7)
5. C. Jones R,3....(1)g(1-3).(3)sf(9).(5)1b(7)
6. J.Fregosi R,5...(1)f(8)...(3)f(7)..(5)1b(7)
7. T. Martinez R,4.(2)g(6-3).(4)1b(7)
8. J. Grote R,2....(2)K......(4)g(4-6)
9. J. Matlack L,1..(2)Kc.....(4)K
*=foul ball
---
For Carlton
Cumulative through 11 starts (88 1/3 innings. 265 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 94K, 82g, 78f(55 outfield, 23 infield) 1 unknown; 77 Pulled, 37 Up the middle, 47 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 24 Walks (2 intentional); 65 hits (44 1b, 15 2b, 1 3b, 5HR) 6 errors *, 31 runs (29 earned runs).
Total opposing batting average: 65-272 (.239) +24 walks (2 intentional): WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Innings Pitched)=1.01
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 24 batters (4 1/3 innings). Pitch Count Estimate: (24*3.3) + 6*1.5) + (3*2.2)=95 pitches.
Mets were 8-20 (1 sacrifice fly)
Outs: 13 (7 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 6K, 3g, 4f (1 infield, 3 outfield); 2 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field
On Base: 3 Walks, 8 hits (6 1b, 1 2b, 1 3b); 7 pulled, 0 up the middle, 1 Opposite field
---
Mets right handed batters: 19 plate appearances: 5-15 (1 sacrifice fly)
Outs: 4K, 3g (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field), 4f (1 infield, 3 outfield); 1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field
On Base: 3W, 5 hits (5 outfield hits) (4 1b, 1 3b) 5 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 0 opposite field
Mets left handed hitters: 5 plate appearances: 3-5
Outs: 2K
On Base 3 hits (3 outfield hits) (2 1b, 1 2b) ; Pulled 2, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field.
+++
Start 10:
May 26: at Pittsburgh Three Rivers Stadium: Pit 6 Phi 4: Carlton (5-5) (2.46) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Nelson Briles (R) (3-1) (4.50) Briles in action--MLB Youtube.
Carlton lost his 4th straight start as the Phillies losing streak increased to 10. The Phillies gave him generous run support (4, though 3 were unearned). In 10 starts they have scored 31 runs. He has now struck out 88 in 84 innings. The defense failed him again (though his line doesn't really show it), allowing another run to score on a double error on one play (see Start 7 below).
Nelson Briles' Repertoire: (5'11", 195 lbs, 129-112, 3.43, 22 saves, 1965-1978) 1. Sinking Fastball; 2. Overhand curve; 3. Changeup ("ineffective")
Arm angle: three quarters and overhand.
"Briles, who occasionally falls on the mound because of the effort he puts into his delivery, has caused alarm among Royals fans, but his knee has held up" (Joe McGuff, The Sporting News, via NJ, P. 144).
Phi 000 200 200--4--9-4(15-19--15-20)5th East -10.5 g
Pit 200 200 11x--6-13-4(20-13--21-13)2nd East -4.0 g
Time: 2:35; Attendance: 25,164; Friday Night Game: 8:05pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (Retrosheet) (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--67F; 9:00--62; 10:00--60; 11:00--55
Wind: 8:00--12MPH (from the ESE); 9:00--10 (SE); 10:00--8 (ESE); 11:00--12 (ESE); blowing in
Humidity: 8:00--21%; 9:00--24%; 10:00--38%; 11:00--37%
Fair
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories: Note for all stories except the Pittsburgh Press Headline, link is to P. 1. Scroll or type in page number for baseball stories.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: "Bucs Survive Errors, Phils Don't, 6-4", by Charlie Feeney (May 27, P. 8-9 [P. 5 of the electronic copy])
Pittsburgh Press: "Phil Gets Wrong Number Again-4 (Bucs get 6)", by Dan Donovan (May 27, P. 6 [P. 4 of the electronic copy])
Post-Gazette Headline: "Pact on Nuclear Arms Signed by Nixon, Brezhnev" (Associated Press, May 27, P. 1)
Press Headline: "Sennate Treaty OK Expected: U.S., Russia Agree On Nuclear Curb," by Ted Knap (May 27, P 1.)
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The Phillies played as badly as their 10 game losing streak indicated. It got so bad that when they tried to call the bullpen, they called the press box instead. Carlton lasted 7 innings, long enough to see his defense implode behind him for the second time in his last 4 starts. After the Phillies tied the score (for the second time) at 4 in the top of the 7th inning with 2 unearned runs due to an error by center fielder Al Oliver, the Pirates came right back to take the lead in their next at bat, (just as they had in the 4th inning) in Carlton's last inning. Two singles sandwiched around Carlton's 4th walk (his highest number of walks in a game this season--though 1 was intentional) produced their final lead. They added an insurance run in the 8th.
The Phillies gifted the Pirates a run in the 1st inning by committing 2 errors (1 earned run). Then in the 4th, Carlton caught Gene Clines (Wikipedia) leaning from first, but 1st baseman Deron Johnson's thow to second went into left field (Clines was credited with a stolen base). Clines took 3rd. When Gregg Luzinski bobbled the ball, Clines scored on the second error. (Both newspaper articles show different parts of the play). It was the second time in Carlton's last 4 starts that the opposition scored a run because of two errors on the same play. The game was poorly played by both sides. They committed 4 errors apiece. There were also 7 walks in the game, as well as 21 men left on the bases. Nelson Briles out pitched Carlton striking out 9 and walking 3. Carlton was perhaps tiring in the crucial 7th inning, as he was beaten by the 7th and 8th hitters in the Pirates order.
For the 1st time this season, the 3,4,5 hitters of an opposing team (Roberto Clemente [H], Manny Sanguillen, and Jose Pagan) had great success against Carlton, going 6-11 with 3 runs scored and 2 batted in. The outburst raised the National League heart of the order batting average to .224 (24-107), up from .187 after his last start. The NL "heart" remains at 3 home runs (2 solo and 1 two run), and now has 9 RBI against Carlton. His earned run average increased from 2.22 to 2.45.
"Carlton was as tough as I've seen him. The breaking pitches he threw at me were tremendous.
Dave Cash (Wikipedia), Pirates 2nd baseman. In this game his triple in the 8th inning stretched his hitting streak to 19 games, best so far in MLB this year. His 1-5 night dropped his overall batting average 5 points, to .309.
"This is a tough infield to play. It's as hard as a rock and the Pirates did hit the ball hard."
Steve Carlton
"I've been around too long. Nothing gets me down. After an error, you have to try and get the next batter out. You can't bring back the last one."
Steve Carlton
"It's got to upset him a little bit. Steve's not the type of guy who's going to badmouth his fellow players."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager.
"Is this the bullpen?"
Ray Rippelmeyer (Wikipedia), Phillies pitching coach, in the 1st inning, after accidentally calling the press box.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Pirates' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Pirates
1. D. Cash R,4.......(1)K......(2)g(5-3).(4)K......(6)K
2. G. Clines R,7.....(1)1b*(?).(2)1b(7)..(4)1b(8)$.(6)K
3. R. Clemente(H) R,9(1)2b(7)..(2)1b(8)..(4)2b(7)..(6)g(4-3)
4. M. Sanguillen R,2.(1)W+.....(2)g(4-6).(4)2b(6)..(7)g(6-3)
5. J. Pagan R,6......(1)g(E5)..(3)2b(7)..(4)Kc.....(7)1b(5)
6. A. Oliver L,8.....(1)sf(8)%.(3)g(4-3).(4)f(7)...(7)g(5-3)
7. B. Robertson R,3..(1)W......(3)W......(5)K......(7)W
8. G. Alley R,6......(1)g(6-4).(3)K......(5)f(9)...(7)1b(78)
9. N. Briles R,1.....(2)K......(3)Kc.....(5)f(4)...(7)f(4)
*=Infield hit
+=Intentional Walk
%=Before the sacrifice fly, Oliver popped to foul territory outside of 1st base and the catch was dropped by Johnson.
$=Clines was caught leaning and went for 2nd as Carlton threw to first. Clines was credited with a stolen base when Johnson threw the ball into left field. Clines continued to third and when Luzinski bobbled the ball, Clines scored. The Press article is accompanied by a two photo essay of parts of the play. The Post Gazette article has a photo of another aspect of the play.
---
For Carlton
Cumulative through 10 starts (84 innings, 252 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 88K, 79g, 74f (52 outfield, 22 infield) 1 unkown; 75 pulled, 35 up the middle, 44 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 21 Walks (2 intentional) 57 hits (38 1b, 14 2b, 5HR), 6 errors*, 25 runs (23 earned runs)
*=Only errors that put runners on the bases directly are counted here. Throwing or bobbling errors that allowed runners to advance, as well as errors that prolonged an at bat (foul balls dropped) are not counted in this tally, even though they might have influenced Carlton's number of outs or runners on base or plate appearances that were were not counted as at bats (sacrifice flies after a dropped foul ball, for example).
Total Opposing batting average: 57-252 (.226) +21 walks (2 intentional); WHIP (Walks* + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.93
*=Intentional Walks are included in the total walk count
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 36 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (36*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (4*2.2)=141 pitches.
Pirates were 10-30
Outs: 21: (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 9K, 7g, 5f (2 infield, 3 outfield); 4 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 7 Opposite field)
On Base: 4 Walks (1 Intentional), 10 hits (6 1b, 4 2b); 7 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown
---
Pirates right handed hitters: 32 plate appearances: 10-28
Outs: 9K, 5g (3 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field) 3f (2 infield, 1 outfield) (0 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field)
On base: 4 Walks (1 intentional) 10 hits (1 infield, 8 outfield, 1 unknown) (6 1b, 4 2b); 7 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown), 1 error
Pirates left handed batters. 4 plate appearances: 0-3
Outs: 2g (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field) 2f (2 outfield); 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field
On base: 0
+++
Start 9:
May 21: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: NY 4 Phi 3: Carlton (5-4) (2.22) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube v Tom Seaver (H) (R) (7-1) (2.44) Seaver in action--Hall of Fame Youtube.
This was Carlton's 7th complete game. And his 3rd consecutive loss. The Phillies scored 3 times. He has now received 27 runs from his offense in 9 starts, 2 of which accounted for 14 of those runs. He has struck out 79 in 77 innings. Willie Mays (H), recently traded from the Giants after 20 years of service, beat him almost single-handedly today.
Tom Seaver's Repertoire: (6'1", 195 lbs, 311-205, 2.86, 1 save, 1967-1986)
1. Rising (4 seam) fastball; 2. Sinking (2 seam) fastball; 3. Slider, 4. Curve, 5. Changeup
Arm Angle: three-quarters. Seaver had a motion that, in my opinion, is a work of art.
"I've got 4 pitches--fast ball, curve ball, slider and changeup--but I've got a couple of different kinds of fast balls and three different curve balls and a slider and two change-ups. So it's seven or eight pitches that I have, though there are only four different signals for them. I might show four different kinds of curve ball."
Tom Seaver: (Inside Corner Talks with Tom Seaver, edited by Joel H. Cohen, via NJ, P. 379)
NY 000 002 020--4-6-1 (24-7--25-7) 1st East +6.0 g
Phi 100 200 000--3-8-0(15-15--15-16)4th East -9.5 g
Time: 2:02; Attendance: 57,267 (at the time, the 2nd largest regular season day game crowd in National League history, behind 78,672 at the LA Coliseum for a Dodgers Home Opener--1st MLB game ever played at Los Angeles--v Giants on April 18, 1958 (NY Times). Sunday Day Game: 1:35pm; Home Plate Umpire: Paul Pryor (1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972).
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--67F; 2:00--69; 3:00--72
Wind: 1:00--10MPH (from the NE); 2:00--9 (NNE); 3:00--10 (ESE);
1:00--blowing in; 2:00--blowing in; 3:00--blowing out;
Humidity: 1:00--79%; 2:00--75%; 3:00--71%;
1::00--Cloudy; 2:00--Cloudy; 3:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 21 (scroll to the bottom for standings).
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
New York Times (proprietary): "Mets Capture 11th Straight 4-3 on Mays's 2-run Homer in 8th: Carlton of Phils Yields 1st Hit in 6th Inning", by Al Harvin (May 22, P. 47).
Times Headline: [Secretary of State Henry] Kissinger Asserts War Won't Impair Summit Meeting: In Salzburg [Austria], He Talks With Newsman as [President Richard] Nixon Meets With Chancellor [Bruno Kreisky] of Austria: Off to Moscow Today; President's Adviser States Soviet [Union] Was Not Warned of Vietnam Mining Plan", by Robert B. Semple, Jr. (May 22, P. 1).
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This game was a tale of two cities moving in opposite directions. The Mets won their 11th game in a row--their longest winning streak of the season, moving 18 games over the .500 mark, and leading the Eastern Division by 6 games. The highest they would get all season would be 19 and 6.5. The latter two figures took place on June 6 and May 20 respectively (Baseballreference.com). The Phillies were sliding down, down, down, losing their 6th consecutive game during a 10 game losing streak followed, after one win, by a 9 game losing streak, dropping them from 15-10 to 16-29.
This game was also part of an extended "coming out" party for the great Willie Mays (H), 41, who joined the Mets on May 11 after being traded for journeyman pitcher Charlie Williams (Wikipedia) and $50,000. Since joining the Mets, Mays has played in 4 games and been instrumental in 4 wins.
"...a home run against his ex-teammates last Sunday [May 14] in the Mets' 5-4 victory; slid into the catcher, dislodging the ball in the Mets' 2-1 victory over Montreal on Thursday [May 18], and scored a run and knocked in another in the Mets' 3-1 first game victory over Philadelphia last night [May 20]."
Al Harvin--New York Times
But that was just prologue to what he did today. In front of over 57,000 fans on a Sunday afternoon (spiced by a "Bat Day" promotion--remember those?) :) (the game story said about 3,000 people were turned away), Carlton started out like a house on fire. He was most likely well aware of the run support he could expect against red hot Tom Seaver (H). Carlton had a no-hit game through 5 innings, including 7 of his 9 strikeouts for the day. But Mays led off the 6th with a double to center and was knocked in by a home run off the bat of Tommie Agee (one of the heroes of the 1969 World Series). That cut the Phillies' 3-0 lead (built on a Greg Luzinkski RBI single in the first and a 4th inning 2 run home run by Tommie Hutton [Wikipedia]) to 3-2. On Mays' next at bat, with a man on and nobody out in the 8th, he hit Carlton's first pitch off the top of the left field wall and out, giving the Mets the win. For the 2nd start in a row a late lead disappeared and a Phillies defeat resulted.
Carlton, walked 3 and gave up 6 hits in a complete game. The Mets 3,4,5 hitters--Agee, Rusty Staub, and Cleon Jones, were 2-12 against him, with 1 home run (Agee) and 2 runs batted in. For the season the heart of the National League order is now 18-96 (.187) with 3 home runs (two solo, one 2 run) and 7 RBI. His ERA grew from 1.99 to 2.22.
And for the third Carlton start in succession (see below), the Phillies were unable to execute fundamental baseball, which contributed to each loss. In the bottom of the 9th, 3rd baseman Don Money [Wikipedia] (playing the last of his 5 years in Philadelphia before being part of a 7 player trade between the Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers--where he finished his 16 year career as one of the finest defensive players of his era) led off with an infield hit. Ron Stone bunted poorly and the attempted sacrifice turned into a 2-6-4 double play. Shortly thereafter, 57,000, many of them carrying bats, filed quietly out of Veterans Stadium.
"Sure I was involved in the 4 wins. But everybody contributed."
Willie Mays
"I don't think I have to prove anything after 20 years. And I'm not trying to show anybody up. I'm glad to be with the Mets, they have great spirit and they made me relax by welcoming me with open arms."
Willie Mays
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Mets' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Mets
1. W. Mays(H) R,3...(1)Kc.....(3)f(8)...(6)2b(8)..(8)HR(7)
2. B. Harrelson B,6.(1)K......(4)W......(6)f(8)...(8)f(9)
3. T. Agee R,8......(1)K......(4)g(5-3).(6)HR(?)..(8)g(6-3)
4. R. Staub L,9.....(2)f(7)...(4)f(5)*..(6)f(7)...(8)1b(8)
5. C. Jones R,7.....(2)f(4)...(4)K......(6)K......(8)g(5-3)
6. J. Fregosi R,5...(2)g(5-3).(5)f(7)...(7)g(6-3).(9)g(6-3)
7. T. Martinez R,4..(3)K......(5)g(4-3).(7)K......(9)1b(7)
8. J. Grote R,2.....(3)W......(5)W......(7)f(3)..(9)f(L6-3dp)
9. T. Seaver(H) R,1.(3)K......(5)K
9. J. Beauchamp R,PH....................(8)1b(7)
9. D. Frisella L, 1
*Fouled out
For Carlton
Cumulative through 9 starts (77 innings--231 outs) 7 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 79K, 72g, 69f (49 outfield, 20 infield) 1 unknown; 71 pulled, 34 Up the middle, 37 Opposite field (1 appeal, 4 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 17 Walks (1 intentional) 47 hits (32 1b, 10 2b, 5HR); 3 errors, 20 runs (19 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 47-231 (.203) +17 Walks; WHIP (Walks+ Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.83
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (3*2.2)=136 pitches.
Mets were 6-32
Outs: 27 (8 right handed batters, 1 left handed batter)
Outs: 9K; 7g; 10f (4 infield, 6 outfield); 8 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 6 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base 3 Walks, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR) 3 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unkown
Mets right handed batters: 31 plate appearances: 5-26
Outs: 9K; 7g (6 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field);
7f (3 infield, 4 outfield) (1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field); 1 double play
On base: 3 Walks; 5 hits (0 infield, 5 outfield) (2 1b, 1 2b, 2HR) (3 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field, 1 unknown)
Mets left handed hitters: 4 plate appearances: 1-4
Outs: 0K; 0g 3f; (1 infield, 2 outfield) (0 pulled, 0 Up the middle,3 Opposite field)
On base: 0 walks, 1 hit (1 outfield), (1 1b); (0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field).
+++
Start 8:
May 17: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Chi 3 Phi 2: Carlton 5-3 (1.99) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bill Hands (R) (no decision) (2.92). Hands in action--sort of--in a 1977 Old Timer's Game.
This was Carlton's 6th complete game, but he was done in by the usual lack of Phillies offense (24 runs in 8 starts, 16 in the 8 starts--he got 8 runs of support in one), as well as 2 home runs (more than in his 1st 7 starts combined). He now has 70 strikeouts in 68 innings.
Bill Hands' Repertoire: (6'2", 185 lbs)111-110; 3.35; 14 saves; 1965-1975)
1. Sinking Fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Curve
Arm Angle: Judging from the old timers game :) sidearm to three quarter
"When he kicks his left leg high and is about to pounce on the batter, he pauses a second and and his eyes suddenly dart from the plate to his leg, as if he is examining his movements in mid-form. It is then that you realize that his motion is not some spontaneous inspiration, like that of Bob Gibson's, but rather a more conscious, deliberate and disciplined creation." (Pat Jordan, Sport Magazine, via NJ, P. 233).
"His fastball is only average, but he throws a wicked slider."(Major League Baseball, 1971, by Brenda Zanger and Dick Kaplan via NJ, P. 233).
Chi 010 000 101--3-6-1 (12-13--13-13) 4th East -6.5 g
Phi 000 011 000--2-8-1 (15-11--15-12) 2nd East -5.0 g
Time: 2:16; Attendance: 12,528; Wednesday Night Game: 7:30; Home Plate Umpire: Augie Donatelli (0 ejections in 1972) (a detailed interview in which Donatelli discusses various aspects of umpiring and his involvement in the organization of the 1st Professional Umpires Association in 1964). For more on Donatelli, see the Hall of Fame Oral Interview: Part 1; Part 2
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--70F; 8:00--67; 9:00--66; 10:00--64
Wind: 7:00--9MPH (from the N); 8:00--10 (E); 9:00--7 (ESE); 10:00--6 (ENE); 7:00--blowing in; 8:00--across from right to left; 9:00--out; 10:00--in
Humidity: 7:00--73%; 8:00--79%; 9:00--78%; 10:00--84%
7:00--Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the Close of Play May 17 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Stories:
Chicago Tribune (proprietary): "Cubs Score in 9th, Beat Phils 3-2", by Richard Dozer (May 18, P. C1, C6).
Associated Press via Reading (Pennsylvania) Eagle: Compilation of games of the day, by Bruce Lowitt (May 18, P. 56). Note that below the game stories there is a great action photo of one of the game's pivotal moments (see below).
Tribune Headline: [Correspondent Anthony Lewis] Sees Haiphong Raid Ruins: Reds Report Removal of Port Mines, by Anthony Lewis (May 18, P. 1)
Eagle Headline: "Allies Try To Lift Siege of An Loc" (Associated Press, May 18, P. 1).
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Carlton gave up only 6 hits and struck out 8. However 2 of the hits were home runs by Carmen Fanzone (playing 3rd base in place of Ron Santo) and Jose Cardenal. Cardenal, the hero and then goat of the Opening Day game Carlton pitched in Chicago (see below)--scoring the tying run from 2nd on an infield hit before losing a ball in the sun and dropping it to provide the Phillies with the winning run--put the Cubs ahead 1-0 with a solo homer in the 2nd, sandwiched by 4 strikeouts, and then won the game with a clutch RBI single up the middle with one out in the 9th. It was Cardenal's 18th RBI (a 100 RBI pace at the time--though he couldn't keep it up, but did finish with 70 for the season--the 3rd best RBI season of his 18 year career). Fanzone hit his homer in the 7th, to tie the score at 2.
The Cubs 3,4,5 hitters (Billy Williams (H), Jim Hickman (MLB.com), and Fanzone) were 3-12, with 3 strike outs. Carlton has now held the heart of the National League Order to 16-84 (.190) with 3 solo home runs and 5 RBI). Carlton also walked 3, giving him 14 walks (1 intentional) and 70 strikeouts in 68 innings of work. His ERA went from 1.81 to 1.99.
Between the 2nd and 5th innings he retired 10 Cubs in a row and was never really in trouble until the 9th. Williams opened the inning with a "ringing" (Dozer) double to right center, breaking an 0-11 slump, and went to third when a sacrifice bunt to the left side by Hickman was so good that he beat it out for a single. Williams then made a base running error, getting thrown out at the plate on a ground ball to third base.
"But Williams made an unwise dash to the plate on a grounder by Fanzone to 3rd and was out."
Richard Dozer
However, Cardenal followed with his base hit to score Hickman and that was the ball game.
The Phillies had 8 hits and 4 walks off 4 Cub pitchers. Bill Hands pitched well for 6 2/3 innings, giving up 2 earned runs on 6 hits, walking 3 and striking out 4. The Phillies scored their runs on a single, passed ball, and double in the 5th, and took a short lived lead in the 6th on a Tommy Hutton solo home run. But they left 10 men on the bases.
One of the "little plays" in the game, which might have been a great play or a "bonehead" mistake (neither game story makes a judgement) came in the 5th, right after the Phillies tied the game. With Denny Doyle on second after his game tying double, and no outs, Carlton hit a single to left. Doyle attempted to score and was cut down by "a fine throw" (Dozer) by Williams. Interestingly, both the Dozer story and Retrosheet play by play had the play scored 7-2. However the caption under the Picture in the Eagle had it Williams to Fanzone to catcher Randy Hundley (7-5-2). Either way, one might question the judgement of Doyle trying to score on a hit to the left side with nobody out and the top of the lineup due. As it was, the play cut the heart out of the Phillies rally. A possible error of omission, after the 2 errors of commission in Carlton's last start, has been part of a 2 game losing streak after his magnificent start to the season.
"That was some King of pitcher (sic) we beat out there. He battles you from the minute he walks out there."
Cubs Manager Leo Durocher, discussing Carlton's effort.
"It was a slider, a tough pitch to handle, right at my feet, but I got good wood on it."
Jose Cardenal, discussing his game winning hit. (Both quotes are from the AP compilation in the Eagle.)
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Cubs
1. D. Kessinger B,6.(1)g(6-3).(3)g(6-3)(6)W........(8)K
2. G. Beckert R,4...(1)W......(3)f(9)..(6)g(4-6-3)*(8)f(9)
3. B. Williams(H)L,7(1)Kc.....(4)f(6)..(6)g(4-3)...(9)2b(98)
4. J. Hickman R,3...(1)g(4-6).(4)K.....(7)g(5-3)...(9)1b(5)#
5. C. Fanzone R,5...(2)K......(4)g(5-3)(7)HR(?)....(9)g(5-2)$
6. J. Cardenal R,9..(2)HR(?)..(5)f(4)..(7)f(8).....(9)1b(8)
7. R. Hundley R,2...(2)Kc.....(5)g(5-3)(7)g(6-3)...(9)f(5)
8. R. Monday L,8....(2)Kc.....(5)1b(8).(8)W!.......(9)g(6-4)
9. B. Hands R,1.....(3)K......(5)f(8)
9. J. Pizarro L,1......................(8)K^
9. T. Phoebus R,1
9. D. McGinn L,1
*=double play
!=stole 2nd and went to 3rd on an error by shortstop Bowa
^Struck out on a bunt (foul bunt or missed the pitch)
#=singled on an attempted sacrifice bunt, Williams to 3rd
$=Fielder's choice: Money-McCarver, Williams out at the plate, Hickman to 2nd, Fanzone to 1st
For Carlton
Cumulative through 8 starts (68 innings--204 outs) 6 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 70K; 65g; 59f (43 outfield, 16 infield) 1 unknown; 63 Pulled; 31 Up the middle; 31 Opposite field (1 appeal, 3 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 14 Walks (1 intentional); 41 hits (29 1b, 9 2b, 3HR); 3 errors, 16 runs (15 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average 41-204 (.201) +14 walks; WHIP (Walks +Hits per Inning Pitched=0.81
+++
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 35 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (35*3.3) + (8*1.5) + (3*2.2)=124 pitches.
Cubs were 6-32
Outs: 27 (7 right handed batters, 2 left handed batters)
Outs: 8K; 11g; 7f (3 infield, 4 outfield); 9 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 7 Opposite field; 1 double play
On Base 3 Walks, 6 hits (3 1b, 1 2b, 2HR); 1 stolen base
Cubs right handed batters: 27 plate appearances: 4-26
Outs: 6K; 10g (7 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field, 1 double play);
6f (2 infield, 4 outfield) (1 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 3 Opposite field)
On base: 2 Walks; 4 hits (1 infield, 3 outfield) (2 1b, 2HR) (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 2 unknown)
Cubs left handed hitters: 8 plate appearances: 2-7
Outs: 2K; 2g (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field); 1f; (1 infield) (1 pulled, 0 Up the middle, 0 Opposite field)
On base: 1 walk, 2 hits (2 outfield), (1 1b, 1 2b); (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field) , 1 stolen base
+++
Start 7:
May 13: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: LA 3 Phi 1; Carlton 5-2 (1.83) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Claude Osteen 4-1 (L) (1.27). Osteen in action: (1965 World Series Game 3 final pitch--he shut out the Twins on 4 hits after they had bombed both Drysdale and Koufax in the first two games of the series).
Carlton pitches well, but not well enough, and his throwing error in the 3rd on an Osteen sacrifice bunt leads to a two run, double error "bunt home run" that gives LA the win. Carlton now has 62 strikeouts in 59 innings.
Claude Osteen's Repertoire: (5'11", 160 lbs, 196-195, 3.30, 1 save, 1957-1975)
1. Slider; 2. Sinking Fastball; 3. Curve; 4. Change
Arm angle: Three Quarter (based on the 1 pitch I have seen) :)
"Claude, or 'Gomer' [due to his resemblance to a TV star of the era] as we called him, is a good control pitcher and throws a mean sinker, curve ball, and slider (Phil Regan [one of the excellent closers of the time] autobiography via NJ, P. 330).
"...a tricky fastball that runs in on the left handers and away from the right handers" (Major League Baseball: 1971, by Brenda Zanger and Dick Kaplan, via NJ, P. 330)
LA 002 100 000--3-8-0 (15-10--16-10) 1st West +1.5 g
Phi 000 001 000--1-8-2 (14-9---14-10) 2nd East -2.5 g
Time: 2:27; Attendance: 27,003; Saturday Nigh Game; 7:35pm: Home Plate Umpire: Stan Landes (Retrosheet)
An aside on Landes, because...how can I not?
31 of Landes' 72 Career ejections were arguments over balls and strikes (not necessarily a high percentage, that will have to wait for another blog post). On April 24, 1957, at Crosley Field in Cincinnati:
" [Cub Pitcher] Moe Drabowsky (who would later star in the 1966 World Series) claimed to be struck on the foot by a pitch; [Cub Pitcher] Dick Drott (Wikipedia) brought a wheelchair out to HP to give Drabowsky a ride to 1B; Drott [was] ejected by HP umpire Stan Landes". Later in the same game, Drabowski was replaced by Jackie Cullom (Twins Trivia). Within 5 batters (walk, single, walk, single, walk) Landes also gave Cullom the heave-ho. (Retrosheet). Landes had 1 ejection for balls and strikes in 1972, his final year as a MLB umpire.
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm--72F; 8:00--68; 9:00--63; 10:00--62
Wind: 7:00--12MPH (from the S); 8:00--13 (S); 9:00--13 (SSE); 10:00--10 (SSE); blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--30%; 8:00--28%; 9:00--48%; 10:00--60%
7:00--Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy; 10:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play for the 1957 game
Standings at the Close of Play May 13 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "Osteen 'drives in' All Dodgers' Runs: Beats Phillies 3-1; Home-Run Bunt Play Aids in L.A.'s First Victory over Carlton in Two Years," by Ron Rapoport (May 14, P. C1, C5).
Times Headline: Nixon-[Soviet Premier Leonid] Brezhnev Contact Reported: Move Believed to Have Increased Summit Chances Despite Mining" [of North Vietnamese Harbors by US Forces] (History.net), by Rudy Abramson and David Kraslow (May 14, P. A1).
The article was accompanied by two analyses under the single headline: "Russ Advantages Seen in Mild Response to Haiphong Mining":
"War Situation Appears to Put Time on Side of Moscow", by Robert C. Toth (P. A1, A14).
"Kremlin May Want No More Cuba-Like Crises in Detente Atmosphere", by William L. Ryan (P. A1, A15).
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Carlton pitched 7 good innings in this game, but fellow lefty Claude Osteen pitched better. This win gave him a record of 4-1 with an ERA of 1.25. Carlton gave up 2 earned runs, ballooning his ERA to 1.83. The Dodgers' 3,4,and 5 hitters were 2-10 against him. After 7 starts, the heart of the National League batting order is 13-72 (raising their average 4 points to .181), with 1 home run and 3 RBI. He struck out future Hall of Famer Frank Robinson twice (but pitched around him with 1 out and a man on first in the 5th).
Carlton really had no one to blame but himself (although the Phillies have now given him 22 runs of support in 7 starts, including his last one--see below--, where they blasted out 8 runs for him). In the 3rd inning. After a lead off single, Osteen came up ...
"with orders to bunt. He did so, to the left of the mound. Carlton fielded the ball, and promptly threw it into right field. [The runner] took off for 3rd, with Osteen in hot pursuit, and when [the Phillie] right fielder threw the ball into the Dodger dugout, the runner scored and Osteen stopped at third." (Game story)
Dodger Manager Walt Alston (H) argued that Osteen had passed 2nd when the ball went into the dugout (meaning he should, by rule, get the next base and the following base), and Home Plate Umpire Landes agreed. In essence, a two run bunt home run. Alston's case took a while to present, as Osteen was standing at 3rd with his jacket on when he was sent home.
"I was one step past second when the ball went into the dugout. I knew I'd be allowed to score, that it was just a matter of time until they made them understand what the rule was."
Claude Osteen
That was all Osteen needed (but he also legitimately batted in the Dodgers' 3rd run with a single in the 4th), as he was able to space 8 hits and 3 walks over 8 1/3 innings for the win. He got his best out to end the 8th. With a man on and two outs, he got left fielder Greg Luzinski (who had batted in the Phillies only run with an RBI double to left in the 6th, and who came into the game with 5 home runs) on a called 3rd strike. It was a perfect change up that completely froze the young slugger. At that point, Osteen was still in the game only because the Dodger bullpen hadn't had enough time to get ready. It was his only strikeout.
"I'll tell you one thing. He made a hell of a pitch on Luzinski."
Walt Alston.
The other point of interest in this game was Steve Garvey's debut at 1st base. He had originally come up as a 3rd baseman. The Dodgers' regular 1st baseman Wes Parker was out sick, and his replacement, young Bill Buckner batted left handed. The last thing Alston wanted against Carlton was a left handed batter, and so that is how Garvey began as a 1st baseman.
For the Phillies and Carlton, it was a foreshadow of bad things to come. The loss dropped them to 14-10. By the time they won for the 17th time, they had lost 29.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball, f=ball in the air, e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known). A combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball. The first number(s) are the number(s) of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the last number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (usually double plays).
Dodgers
1. B. Russell R,6......(1)Kc......(3)2b(7).(4)g(5-3)(6)f(9)
2. M. Mota R,7.........(1)g(5-3)..(3)?(3)^.(5)1b(7).(7)g(6-3)
3. W. Davis L,8........(1)g(4-3)..(3)1b(8)%,(5)f(8).(7)g(3)
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9..(2)K.......(3)K......(5)W....(7)f(9)
5. S. Garvey R,3.......(2)2b(7)...(3)f(9)...(5)g(6-3)
5. B. Buckner L,3
6. B. Grabarkowitz R,5.(2)g(6-3)..(4)1b(7)..(5)g(6-3)
7. C. Cannizzaro R,2...(2)Kc......(4)f(8)...(6)W
8. B. Valentine R,4....(3)1b(7)...(4)f(7)...(6)K
9. C. Osteen L,1.....(3)sb(E1,E9)*(4)1b(9)..(6)K
9. J. Brewer L,1
*Carlton threw the bunt into right field, Mike Anderson (1980 Topps Baseball Card) threw the ball into the Dodger dugout, both Valentine and Osteen scored.
^ Whether Mota's bunt was caught in the air or grounded into an unassisted out is unknown. The runner did not advance.
% Davis stole second. It was the first stolen base against Carlton this season.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 7 starts (59 innings--177 outs) 5 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 62K; 54g; 52f(39 outfield, 13 infield) 1 unknown; 54 pulled; 29 Up the middle; 24 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 11 Walks (1 intentional); 35 hits (26 1b, 8 2b, 1HR), 3 errors, 13 runs, (12 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 35-200=.175 +11 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.78
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 31 batters (7 innings): Pitch Count Estimate: (31*3.3) + (6*1.5) + (2*2.2)=116 pitches.
Dodgers were 7-28
Outs: 21 (7 right handed batters; 2 left handed batters)
6K, 8g, 6f(6 Outfield), 1 unknown; 9 Pulled, 2 Up the Middle, 4 Opposite field
On base: 2 Walks, 7 hits (2 2b, 5 1b), 1 double error that was also a sacrifice bunt. 1 stolen base.
---
Dodger Right Handed Batters: 24 plate appearances: 5-22
Outs: 5K; 6g (6 Pulled); 5f (5 Outfield): (1 Pulled, 1 to Center Field, 3 Opposite Field) 1 unkown (in the infield) (opposite field--bunt--unknown whether caught on the fly or unassisted putout on the ground)
On Base: 2 Walks; 6 hits (2 2b; 4 1b) (5 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite Field)
Dodger Left Handed Batters: 7 plate appearances: 2-6
Outs: 1K; 2g (2 Pulled); 1f (1 to Center Field)
On Base: 2 hits (2 1b) (1 Pulled, 1 Up the Middle); 1 double error on a sacrifice bunt
+++
Start 6:
May 7: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium: Phi 8 SF 3; Carlton 5-1 (1.73) Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Ron Bryant (L) (Wikipedia) 0-2.
Carlton's 5th complete game. He has now struck out 56 in 52 innings.
Ron Bryant's Repertoire: (6'0", 190 lbs: 57-56, 4.02, 1 save, 1967-1975)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Slider; 4. Change
Arm angle: unknown
"Bryant is not overpowering. He is sneaky fast and his ball tails away from right handed hitters" (Neal Russo, The Sporting News, via NJ, P. 148). He led the National League in wins at 24-12 (3.53) in 1973 (Retrosheet).
SF 000 000 021--3--7-1 (7-14--7-15); 6th West 7.0 gb
Phi 004 020 02x--8-11-0 (12-7--13-7); 2nd East 0.0 gb
Time: 2:20; Attendance: 44,880; Sunday Day Game: 1:35pm. Home Plate Umpire: Bill Williams (2 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00pm--77F; 2:00--79; 3:00--82; 4:00--83
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the SW); 2:00--8 (SSW); 3:00--7 (SSW); 4:00--12 (S); blowing out
Humidity: 1:00--56%; 2:00--52; 3:00--47; 4:00--47
1:00--Mostly Cloudy; 2:00--Cloudy; 3:00--Mostly Cloudy; 4:00--Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play May 7 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game stories:
United Press International via Los Angeles Times (proprietary), "Carlton fans 13, Stops S.F. for 5th win" May 8, 1972, P. E4
Times Headline: "Nixon Sets Stage for Policy Decision: Summons Top Vietnam Advisers; Calls [Secretary of State William P.] Rogers Home From Europe," by Robert C. Toth, P. A1, A13.
Associated Press via Reading (Pennsylvania) Eagle, May 8, P. 26. Composite stories for all National League games that includes a Carlton quote, by Herschel Nissenson.
Eagle Headline: "Hanoi Area Bombed" (Associated Press,) May 8, P. 1
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This game marked the Phillies high water mark for the season. For a short time after their win, they were in 1st place by 1/2 game. But when the Mets won an extra inning game over the Padres (overcoming a 6-0 deficit in the 8th inning), they went back into 1st place by percentage points. The Phillies went in the other direction. But this was a time of high optimism in the City of Brotherly Love, and an enormous crowd of almost 45,000 came out to see their heroes play on a Sunday afternoon.
They were not disappointed. Aided by an error by Giants' rookie left fielder Garry Maddox (Wikipedia), the Phillies scored 4 runs in the 3rd, and then added 2 in the 5th and 8th to give Carlton the best run support he has had all season (he had 13 runs of support in his first 5 starts). Until he tired in the last two innings he was "lights out". The first time through the Giants order he struck out 6. The 6th, Ron Bryant, called out on strikes to end the 3rd inning, was Carlton's 1,000th career strikeout in his 193rd career game, and his 178th start. The 2nd time through the lineup he struck out 4 more. In the first 7 innings he allowed 2 hits and no runs, with 11 strikeouts and 1 walk. He tired in the last two innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits, but by that time the game was long gone. In the 9th he gave up his first home run all season, a solo HR by Bobby Bonds.
This game is an interesting example of how starting pitchers were commonly used during this era, especially a top of the rotation starter. No pitcher in today's game would ever be left in to complete a game like this. There would be too much risk of an injury, and the starter would be removed, most likely after 6 innings (twice through the lineup) or 7 innings at most. In "blowouts" of this era, top line starters commonly finished what they started. In Carlton's case, the last two innings hurt his ERA and he was pretty obviously tiring.
He held the Giants 3,4, and 5 hitters, Ken Henderson, Bonds, and Dave Kingman (Wikipedia) to 3-11 with a walk and 4 strikeouts. Through 6 starts, the heart of the National League batting order is now 11-62 (.177) with 1 home run and 3 rbi's. For the 4th time in 6 starts, every batter Carlton faced was right handed. At 2 hours and 20 minutes, this was Carlton's longest game of the year. 3 games <2 hours; 3 games >1 hour and 59 minutes.
From the game story: "Carlton was surprised he pitched as well as he did, allowing only two hits over the first seven innings.'When I warmed up I didn't feel good. I had that tired sensation. But I had warmed up early, and had a chance to sit down and rest.' "
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air. e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number(s) the number of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (ususally double plays).
Giants
1. C. Speier R,6....(1)K.......(4)g(5-3).(6)f(9)....(8)1b(8)
2. C. Arnold R,5....(1)K.......(4)g(6-3).(7)f(8)....(8)1b(9)^
3. K. Henderson B,8.(1)K.......(4)f(9)...(7)f(8)....(9)f(L1)
4. B. Bonds R,9.....(2)K.......(5)f(5)...(7)1b(7)...(9)HR(?)
5. D. Kingman R,3...(2)1b(7)*..(5)W......(7)K.......(9)K
6. T. Fuentes B,6...(2)f(4)....(5)K......(8)2b(7)...(9)f(L4)
7. G. Maddox R,7....(3)g(6-3)..(5)K......(8)1b(7)
8. F. Healy R,2.....(3)K.......(6)K
8. R. Gibson R,PH,2......................(8)g(1-4-3)
9. R. Bryant B,1....(3)Kc
9. S. Stone R,1
9. B. Williams R,PH............(6)Kc
9. J. Johnson R,1
9. A. Gallagher R,PH.....................(8)K
9. J. Morris R, 1
9. D. McMahon R, 1
*=caught stealing 2-6
^Speier out trying to advance to 3rd on Arnold's 1b(9) 9-4-5
For Carlton
Cumulative through 6 starts (52 innings--156 outs) 5 complete games, 2 shutouts
Outs: 56K; 46g; 46f(33 outfield, 13 infield); 45 pulled; 27 Up the middle; 20 Opposite Field; (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 3 caught stealing, 1 pickoff, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On base: 9 Walks (1 Intentional), 27 hits (21 1b, 5 2b, 1HR), 1 error, 10 runs (10 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 27-179=(.151) +9 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.69
---
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton Faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (13*1.5) + (1*2.2)=131 pitches.
7-32 (1 caught stealing, 1 thrown out on the bases)
Outs: 27 (12 right handers, 0 left handers)
13 Ks, 4g; 8f(4 outfield, 4 infield); 4 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 4 Opposite field (1 caught stealing, 1 thrown out on the bases)
On Base: 8
1 walk; 7 hits (1 HR, 1 2b, 5 1b) 4 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field; 1 unknown
+++
Start 5:
May 3: at Los Angeles Dodger Stadium: Phi 5 LA 1; Carlton 4-1 (1.47) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bill Singer (R) 2-2. (Bill Singer in action)
Carlton's 4th complete game. He has now struck out 43 in 43 innings.
Bill Singer's Repertoire: (6'4", 184 lbs: 118-127, 3.39, 2 saves, 1964-1977)
1. Fastball; 2. Spitball; 3. Slider; 4. Sidearm Curve
Arm angle: three quarters
9th inning of Singer's No-Hitter: July 20, 1970 against Phillies: Vin Scully on the call
Phi 000 200 030---5-10-1 (10-6--11-6); 2nd East 1.0 gb
LA 000 010 000---1--6-1 (12-5--12-6); 2nd West 0.0 gb
Time: 2:05; Attendance: 14,314; Wednesday Night Game: 8:00pm; Home Plate Umpire: Nick Colosi (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (no hourly data from WU), daily data from Ultimate70s.com (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: High: 64F; Low: 55
Wind: 7MPH
Humidity: 80%
Cloudy
Standings at the close of play May 3 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
,
Los Angeles Times (proprietary): "Dodgers Beaten by Carlton Again, Phillies Win 5-1," by Ron Rapoport, May 4, 1972, P. F1, F10.
Times Headline: [South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van] Thieu Fires General in Northern Region: Highly Regarded Mekong Delta Leader Given Hue Defense Task," by George McArthur P. A1, A28.
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Carlton easily won his 4th game in 5 starts, holding the Dodgers to 1 run on 6 hits. He struck out 9 and is now on a 1 strikeout per inning pace. The 3, 4, and 5 Dodger hitters, Willie Davis (Willie Davis: Biography of a Rookie--1 hour video--Archive.org), Frank Robinson (H), and Jim Lefebvre (Baseball Hall of Fame Baseball Card Collection) to 3-11 with 1 walk and 5 strikeouts. He has now held the heart of the National League order to 8-51 (.157) with 2 RBIs. The Dodgers' only run came in the 5th, on a double and a single. With a 2-1 lead in the 6th, he got the first 2 outs, but then, facing the 3 batters above, he gave up singles to Davis and Robinson. In the key at bat of the game, he struck out Lefebvre, and the Dodgers night was finished. He retired 9 of the last 10 batters. The win improved Carlton's lifetime record against the Dodgers to 8-2, 6-0 in Dodger Stadium.
"It's just one of those things. The weather is always great here and the mound is in perfect shape. But mostly, I love it because it's cool."
Steve Carlton
The Phillies put the game away when the Dodgers had a horror 8th inning giving up 3 runs (1 earned) on a wild pitch and a throwing error that allowed 2 runs to score. As in his second start (see below) these insurance runs proved to be superfluous. This was a "long" game, 2 hours and 5 minutes, only the 2nd time he has worked in a two hour game. Willie Davis was the first left-handed batter Carlton faced since he pitched against the Cardinals in his 2nd start. (See below).
After the game Carlton was asked about the 43 strikeouts in 43 innings.
"That's a great ratio if you can keep it up. But it's a long season, and when the hot weather comes, well, I could reach back and get it tonight."
"The players on this club love to play behind Carlton. They know he's a stopper and is going to go out and do what he did this time."
Frank Lucchesi, Phillies Manager
"We saw a good pitcher tonight. The ball hit by Steve Garvey ( the double which led to the Dodgers run) and two balls hit by Frank Robinson were the only balls really hit well"
Walter Alston, Dodgers' Manager
The article revealed that Carlton signed for the Phillies for $10,000 more than the offer Cardinals' Owner August Busch refused (Carlton was traded over a discrepancy of $5,000 dollars between his demand and Busch's "final" offer).
"Usually, when you're traded, they'll satisfy the people they trade for."
Steve Carlton.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Dodgers' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (see below under "where the ball is hit"), PH=Pinch Hitter
(n)=inning
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air. e=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (L indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number(s) the number of the fielder(s) who touched/caught the ball (assist(s)), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout. Note that a player can have a putout and assist on the same play (ususally double plays)
Dodgers
1. W. Parker B,3.(1)g(1-3).....(4)f(9)...(6)g(4-3)..(8)1b(9)^
2. M. Mota R,7........(1)f(8)..(4)g(6-3).(6)g(6-3)..(8)f(9)
3. W. Davis L,8.......(1)f(4)..(4)1b(?)..(6)1b(9)...(8)K
4. F. Robinson(H) R,9.(2)K.....(4)W......(6)1b(9)...(9)f(9)!
5. J. Lefebvre B,4....(2)Kc....(4)g(6-4).(6)K.......(9)K
6. S. Garvey R,5.....(2)g(6-3).(5)2b(7)..(7)g(6-3)..(9)f(7)
7. D. Dietz R,2.......(3)Kc....(5)f(8)...(7)f(7)
8. B. Russell, R,6....(3)K.....(5)1b(9)*.(7)Kc
9. B. Singer R,1......(3)g(6-3.(5)K
9. H. Wilhelm(H) R,1
9. B. Valentine R,PH.....................(8)g(5-3)
9. P. Mikkelsen R,1
*=Caught stealing: 2-6
^=went to 2nd on E9
!=hit the ball "well" according to Manager Alston
For Carlton
Cumulative through 5 starts (43 innings--129 outs)
Outs: 43Ks, 42g, 38f (29 outfield, 9 infield); 41 Pulled, 23 Up the middle, 16 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double plays, 2 caught stealing, 1 pick off)
On base: 8 Walks (1 Intentional), 20 hits (16 1b, 4 2b), 1 error, 7 runs (7 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 20-147=.136 +8 Walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched)=0.65
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters: Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (9*1.5) + (1*2.2)=125 pitches.
6-33 (1 caught stealing)
Outs: 27: (10 right handers, 1 left hander)
9Ks 9g, 8f (7 outfield, 1 infield); 10 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 4 Opposite field, 1 caught stealing
On Base: 7
1 Walk; 6 hits (1 2b, 5 1b) ; 1 run;1 earned run.
Opposing batters faced: 33; 6-32 (1 Walk)
Dodger Right Handed Hitters: 4-28
Outs 24 (1 out caught stealing)
K-7
g-9 (7 Pulled; 1 Up the Middle; 1 Opposite Field)
f-7 (2 Pulled; 2 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field) (7 outfield)
On base:
W-1
1b-3 (3 Opposite field)
2b-1 (1 Pulled)
Dodger Left Handed Hitters: 2-4
Outs: 2
K-1
g-0
f-1 (infield, Pulled)
On base: 2
1b-2 (1 opposite field, 1 unknown)
+++
Start 4:
April 29: At San Diego Stadium: SD 4 Phi 0; Carlton 3-1 (1.59) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Steve Arlin (R) 1-3. Carlton's 3rd complete game and 1st loss.
Steve Arlin's Repertoire: (6" 3.5", 195 lbs: 34-67, 4.33, 1 save, 1969-1974) (Retrosheet)
1. Fastball in the low 90s; 2. "knee buckling" curve, but "struggled with control" (Arlin SABR biography).
Arm angle: appears from photo in biography to be overhand or three quarter.
Phi 000 000 000--0-5-1 (7-4--7-5); 3rd East 1.5 gb
SD 000 000 22x--4-6-0 (4-9--5-9); 5th West 5.0 gb
Time: 1:59; Attendance: 7,859; Saturday Night Game: 7:30pm; Home Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for pitch calls in 1972) (Retrosheet)
Weather conditions (partial data only) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--60F; 11:00--60
Wind: 8:00--7MPH (from the SSW); 11:00--7 (S); blowing out
Humidity: 8:00--75%; 11:00--75%
8:00--Fair; 11:00--Partly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play April 29 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story:
Associated Press via Los Angeles Times (Proprietary), April 30, 1972. Section D. P.6
Times Headline: "Quang Tri Holding After 3-Day Attack: B-52s Hit Red Force 25 Miles North of Saigon," by George McArthur (P. A1).
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The last Major League pitcher to lose 20 games two years in a row was Paul Derringer in 1933 (St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati) and 1934 (Cincinnati). Derringer was 7-27 and 15-21. In 1939 and 1940 he pitched for Cincinnati and helped lead them to two pennants and a World Championship with records of 25-7 and 21-12. Steve Arlin barely missed equaling Derringer's feat in pitching for terrible San Diego teams in 1971 and 1972. He was 9-19 and 10-21, leading the league in losses both years.
But he didn't lose this game. The Padres handed Carlton his first loss in spite of a complete game 6 hit performance in which he struck out 10. But he wasn't as sharp in this game as in his first 3 starts. He walked 4 after walking a total of 5 going into this start. In the 4th inning, partly due to an error by Left Fielder Greg Luzinski, he allowed 2 men on base in the same inning for the first time this season. And while he quickly picked one of those runners off to avoid further trouble, his scoreless streak came (24 innings) to an end in the 7th. With one out, 2 walks (1 intentional) sandwiched around a an opposite field double by "Cito" Gaston loaded the bases. Carlton then struck out Dave Campbell for the 2nd out, but gave up a two run single up the middle to light hitting catcher Bob Barton (Retrosheet). The Padres added 2 more in the 8th on a walk to leadoff hitter Darrel Thomas (Retrosheet), who then stole second. Carlton then struck out the next two hitters, but cleanup hitter Nate Colbert singled to center scoring one run and then Gaston again doubled to the opposite field to score the Padres final run. Three of Carlton's four runs given up were walked on base.
Arlin pitched well when he had to, spacing 5 hits, 4 walks (2 intentional), and 2 hit batters for the shutout. He worked out of bases loaded jams in the 3rd and 7th and stranded 2 in the 2nd. For the game, the Phillies left 10 men on the bases.
For the second consecutive start, Carlton faced an all right handed lineup. San Diego's 3-5 hitters were 4-10, with 2 RBIs and 3 runs scored. They walked once and struck out 3 times. They got more hits in this game than the 3-5 hitters in Carlton's 1st 3 starts combined, moving his line against the heart of the National League order from 1-30 to 5-40.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position, PH=Pinch Hitter
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, IW=Intentional Walk, G=ground ball F=ball in the air. E=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly, DP=double play)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Padres:
1. D. Thomas B,4....(1)W.......(3)K........(6)f(7)...(8)W
2. E. Hernandez R,6.(1)sb(5-3).(4)f(7E)....(6)g(6-3).(8)K
3. J. Jeter R,8.....(1)g(5-3)..(4)s(3**)^..(7)K......(8)K
4. N. Colbert R,3...(1)g(5-3)..(4)K........(7)W......(8)1b(8)
5. C. Gaston R,7....(2)g(5-3)..(4)f(3*)....(7)2b(9)..(8)2b(9)
6. O. Brown R,9.....(2)K.......(5)1b(7)....(7)(IW)...(8)Kc
7. D. Campbell R,5..(2)K.......(5)f(8).....(7)K
8. B. Barton R,2....(3)f(9*)...(5)g(6-3DP).(7)1b(8)
9. S. Arlin R,1.....(3)f(6)....(6)g(6-3)...(7)K
*=foul
**=bunt
^Picked off 1st 1-3
For Carlton
Cumulative through 4 starts (34 innings--102 outs) (innings corrected May 5, 2020)
Outs: 34Ks, 33g, 31f (22 outfield, 8 infield); 31 Pulled, 20 Up the middle, 12 Opposite field (1 appeal, 2 double play, 1 caught stealing, 1 pickoff)
On base: 7 Walks (1 Intentional), 14 hits (11 1b, 3 2b); 1 error; 6 runs (6 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 14-115 (.122) (at bats) +7 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.62
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 33 batters (8 inning complete game). Pitch Count Estimate: (33*3.3) + (10*1.5) + (4*2.2)=133 pitches.
Outs: 24: (9 right handers, 0 left handers)
10Ks; 6g; 6f (4 outfield [1 error], 2 infield); 9 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 pickoff; 1 double play
6g: 6 Pulled; 0 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
6f: 3 Pulled (1 error); 1 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field
On Base: 10
4W (1 Intentional Walk) 4 1b; Pulled 2 Up the middle; 2 2b; Pulled 0, Up the middle 2; Opposite field 0
Opposing batters faced: 33
Total: 6-29 (not including walks)
+++
Start 3:
April 25: at San Francisco Candlestick Park: Phi 3 SF 0; Carlton 3-0 (0.69) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Juan Marichal (H) (R) (Tied for 8th for NL Cy Young Award in 1971--Baseball Reference) (1-2) (Marichal in action--Hall of Fame Youtube): Carlton's 2nd complete game and 2nd shutout.
Juan Marichal's repertoire: (6'0", 185 lbs: 243-142, 2.89, 2 saves, 1960-1975)
1. Slider; 2. Fastball; 3. Changeup; 4. Curve; 5. Screwball (Al Stump--Sport Magazine, 1964 via James-Neyer, P. 292.)
1. Fastball; 2. Curve; 3. Screwball (Pat Frizzel, The Sporting News, 1972, via J-N, P. 293).
Arm angle: anywhere from sidearm to overhand, with a huge leg kick that had his left leg higher than his head before the delivery. Roger Angell described Marichal's pitching motion: "...throws like some enormous and dangerous farm implement." (New Yorker, reprinted in The Summer Game, via J-N P. 293.)
Phi 000 010 020--3-6-0 (4-3--5-3); 3rd 0.5 gb
SF 000 000 000--0-1-0 (4-5--4-6); 3rd 4.0 gb
Time: 1:47; Attendance: 6,092; Tuesday Night Game: 8:00pm; Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972) (Sporting News Umpire Card)
Weather conditions (partial data only) (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 8:00pm--53F; 11:00--51
Wind: 8:00--20MPH (from the W); 11:00--9 (W) blowing across--right to left
Humidity: 8:00--50%; 9:00--50; 10:00--68
7:00--Mostly Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at the close of play April 25 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Associated Press via Los Angeles Times (proprietary), April 26, 1972, Section III, P. 1, 4.
Times Headline: "New Quiz for Kleindienst" (Senate Confirmation hearing for Richard G. Kleindienst as Attorney General). Questions were about his "role in settlement of the controversial antitrust suit against International Telephone and Telegraph, which has snagged his confirmation." Kleindienst was confirmed later in 1972 and resigned as Richard Nixon's AG on April 30, 1973.
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Carlton went from dominant to overpowering in his 3rd start, a brilliant one hit shutout, otherwise marred by a single walk. He struck out 14. The Giants started an all right handed lineup against him, the first time he faced such a lineup this season. Right handers are now 5-61 (1 double--the 2nd messed up by Ferguson Jenkins, who missed 1st base on a double and ended up without a hit for his efforts [see Start 1 below]). against him. He gave up a hit to Chris Speier to open the game. He then disposed of the next 15 batters, 11 by strikeout. He then gave up a walk, before disposing of the last 11 batters.
The Phillies scored in the 5th on two walks, a sacrifice bunt, and a sacrifice fly by Denny Doyle . In the 8th they scored two superfluous runs when, with two outs and runners on 2nd and 3rd (Carlton started the inning with a single--he is now 3-9 with a run scored), Deron Johnson singled to right. The runs were superfluous because for the 3rd consecutive start, Carlton did not allow more than 1 runner in any inning. His 2nd consecutive shutout ran his scoreless streak to 18 innings. He held the 3-5 hitters in the Giants lineup, Bobby Bonds, Dave Kingman (Wikipedia), and Ken Henderson to 0-9, with 5 strikeouts. In three games, the heart of the opposition lineup is now 1-30 with 9 strikeouts.
The Giants starter, Juan Marichal, did not pitch all that badly, a complete game giving up 6 hits and 3 runs, walking 3 (1 intentionally) and striking out 7. This game took an hour and 47 minutes. Carlton's 2nd and 3rd starts lasted a grand total of 3 hours and 20 minutes, about the time of one slightly long baseball game today. Carlton has now opened the season beating 2 of the top 10 1971 Cy Young Award candidates, and holding the winner of the award to a no decision.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Giants' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases (though that is explained in the notes).
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position
K=strike out K(c)=called strikeout when known) W=Walk, G=ground ball F=ball in the air. E=error
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run, out (sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly)
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field. PH=Pinch hitter
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Giants:
1. C. Speier R,6.....(1)1b(8).....(4)Kc......(6)f(8)...(9)Kc
2. T. Fuentes B,4....(1)g(5-4**)..(4)K.......(7)f(7)
3. B. Bonds R,9......(1)g(6-3)....(4)K.......(7)f(9)
4. D. Kingman R,3....(2)K.........(5)f(2***).(7)K
5. K. Henderson B,7..(2)K.........(5)K.......(8)f(8)
6. G. Maddox* R, 8...(2)K.........(5)K.......(8)f(8)
7. F. Healy R,2......(3)Kc........(6)Kc......(8)g(5-3)
8. C. Arnold R,5.....(3)g(6-3)....(6)W.......(9)g(6-3)
9. J. Marichal(H)R,1.(3)Kc........(6)g(2-3)
9. W. Mays(H) R(PH)..........................(9)Kc
*=this was Gary Maddox' debut game in MLB.
**=thrown out stealing 2-4
***=fouled out
For Carlton
Cumulative through 3 starts (26 innings--78 outs)
Outs: 24Ks, 27g, 25f(19 outfield, 6 infield); 22 Pulled, 19 Up the middle, 10 Opposite field (1 appeal, 1 double play, 1 caught stealing)
On base: 3 Walks, 8 hits (7 1b, 1 2b) 2 runs (2 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 8-84=.095; +3 walks; WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched) =0.42
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 28 batters 10 right handers 0 left handers: Pitch Count Estimate (28*3.3) +(14*1.5) + (1*2.2)=116 pitches.
Outs: 27 (10 right handers, 0 left handers)
14Ks; 6g; 6f; 4 Pulled; 5 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field; 1 caught stealing
6g: 5 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
6f: 1 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field
On Base:
2: 1W 1 1b; 1 Up the middle
Giants Right handed hitters outs 26 (1-27) (1 caught stealing)
14K
g=6: 5 Pulled; 1 Up the middle; 0 Opposite field
f=6; 1 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field (5 outfield, 1 infield)
On base: Walks 1; Hits 1 (1 up the middle)
Giants Left handed hitters: none
+++
Start 2:
April 19: at Philadelphia Veterans Stadium v St. Louis: Phi 1 St.L 0: Carlton 2-0 (1.06) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) v Bob Gibson (H) (R) (5th in NL Cy Young Award for 1971--Baseball Reference) (0-1). (Gibson in action--Hall of Fame Youtube) Carlton's 1st complete game and 1st shutout.
Gibson's Repertoire: (6'1", 189 lbs: 251-174, 2.91, 6 saves, 1959-1975)
1. Rising fastball; 2. Slider; 3. Sinking fastball; 4. Curve; 5. Changeup. Gibson said he had 9 pitches; 2 different fastballs, 2 different sliders, a curve, a changeup, a knock-down, a brush-back, and a hit-batsman. (P. 217)
Arm angle: three quarter, according to Tom Seaver (see citation below under Ferguson Jenkins.
St.L 000 000 000--0 3 0 (1-3--1-4)
Phi 000 001 00x--1 11 0 (2-2--3-2)
Time: 1:33; Attendance: 8,184; Wednesday, Night Game: 7:35pm. Plate Umpire: Ken Burkhart (0 ejections for pitch calls in 1972)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 7:00pm-- 76F; 8:00--75; 9:00--68
Wind: 7:00--14MPH (from the SW); 8:00--14 (SSW); 9:00--8 (SW) Wind blowing out
Humidity: 7:00--50%; 8:00--50%; 9:00--68%
7:00--Mostly Cloudy; 8:00--Cloudy; 9:00--Mostly Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at close of play April 19 (scroll to the bottom for standings)
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game Story
Associated Press via Portsmouth (Ohio) Times, April 20, 1972, P. 18. "Carlton blanks former mates," by Herschel Nissenson
Associated Press via Reading Eagle, April 20, 1972, P. 54? "Revenge Not on Carlton's Mind" by Herschel Nissenson (expanded version of the story above). (Added April 24, 2020).
Times top Headline: "House Dems Condemn Bombing" (Associated Press) April 20) P. 1
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In 1964 the St. Louis Cardinals were the beneficiaries of one of the most one-sided trades in baseball history (Chicago Tribune via St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Jun. 15, 2014), receiving the young Lou Brock (H) from the Cubs for veteran pitcher Ernie Broglio (more players were involved but these are the ones remembered). But before the beginning of the 1972 season, they returned the favor, trading Carlton to the Phillies for pitcher Rick Wise. Carlton was coming off a 20-9 (3.56) season. Wise was 17-14 (2.88) in 1971. While the Cubs trade was about talent, the Cardinals' was about money, Carlton angering Cardinals owner August Busch by holding out for a better contract than the multi-millionaire beer entrepreneur wanted to pay. Wise went on to a good career. Carlton went on to the Hall of Fame.
This was Carlton's first start against his old team. He drew the best the Cardinals had to offer, Bob Gibson (H). He throttled the Cardinals on 3 hits, striking out 5 and walking nobody. The Phillies peppered Gibson for 11 hits (1 walk, 5 strikeouts). The only scoring in the game came in the 6th on a lead off triple to right by Willie Montanez, followed immediately by a single to center by Deron Johnson. Just as in his first start, Carlton did not allow more than 1 base runner in any inning. He retired 18 of the first 20 batters he faced, and finished by retiring the last 9 in a row. He held the Cardinals' 3, 4, and 5 hitters (Matty Alou, Donn Clendenon, and Ted Simmons (*H) (mlb.com) to a combined 1-9 with 1 strike out. For his first 2 starts, he has now held the heart of the opposing team's order to 1-21 with 4 strikeouts. The Phillies had hits in 6 of their 8 turns at bat, but Gibson kept them off the scoreboard. The game was played in an astonishing 1 hour and 33 minutes, less than half the length of today's games. Gibson was known for his quick and effective work.
*=Simmons joins the Hall of Fame with the 2020 class.
Did the game mean anything extra to Carlton?
"The incentive is to win. That's my incentive. Not beating any particular team. It's nice to come back and beat the team that traded you and beat a pitcher like Gibby. But it's just as nice beating any team."
When asked about the trade:
"That's all over. Mr. Busch is a gentleman. It's just a shame he took it personally. But let's not talk about that. Let's just talk now about winning."
Steve Carlton
"That is the last team in the world Steve would like to shut out."
Joe Hoerner, who also pitched for the Phillies in 1972
"It seems like before I gave the signs he was throwing pitches. I'd look up and here it comes. He had a super curve ball."
Tim McCarver
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cardinals' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases.
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name, handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter), defensive position (PH=Pinch hitter)
K=strike out (K(c)=called strikeout when known, K(s)=swinging strikeout when known) W=Walk, g=ground ball f=ball in the air (l indicates line drive if known) . e=error, sb=sacrifice bunt, sf=sacrifice fly
1b=single, 2b=double 3b=triple HR=home run,
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field.
A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air (l indicates line drive if known), a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.)known) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
Cardinals
1. L. Brock(H) L,7 (1)K.......(4)g(4-3)...(6)K.....(9)g(6-3)
2. T. Sizemore R,4 (1)g(5-3)..(4)f(7).....(7)1b(8).(9)f(^8)
3. M. Alou L,9 (1)g(1-3)..(4)1b(8)....(7)g(3-4)
4. D. Clendenon R,3(2)g(6-3)..(4)f(9).....(7)f(8)
5. T. Simmons+ B,2 (2)f(L5)...(5)K........(7)f(8)
6. J. Cruz L,8 (2)f(7)....(5)g(*1-3)..(8)g(4-3)
7. E. Crosby L,5,6 (3)1b(7)...(5)f(**5)...(8)g(6-3)
8. D. Maxvill R,6 (3)g(5-4-3)(6)g(6-3)
8. G. McNertney R,PH......................(8)K
8. M. Martinez B,5
9. B. Gibson(H) R,1(3)g(4-3)..(6)f(8)
9. L. Melendez R,PH.......................(9)K
+Ted Simmons will be entering the Hall of Fame with the 2020 class.
*=bunt
**=foul
^=according to play by play "the Cardinals argued that the ball was trapped against the wall."
No strikeouts were identified as called or swinging.
For Carlton
Cumulative through 2 starts (17 innings--51 outs)
Outs:
10Ks 21g; 19f (14 outfield, 5 infield); 16 Pulled; 14 Up the middle; 9 Opposite field (1 appeal, 1 double play)
On base:
2 Walks, 7 hits (6 1b, 1 2b) 2 runs (2 earned runs)
Total Opposing batting average: 7-57=.123 +2 walks WHIP (Walks + Hits per Inning Pitched=0.53
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 29 batters : Pitch Count Estimate: (29*3.3) + (5*1.5) + 0=103 pitches.
Outs: 27 (7 right handers, 4 left handers)
5Ks; 0W; 13g; 9f; 9 Pulled; 6 Up the middle; 6 Opposite Field, 1 double play
13g; 7 Pulled; 2 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field
9f (8f, 1l--2 infield, 7 outfield); 2 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 3 Opposite field
3 hits (all 1b) 0 Pulled, 2 Up the middle; 1 Opposite field
Cardinals right handed hitters outs: 15 (1-16) (1 double play)
K=3;
g=6 (5 Pulled, 0 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
f=7 (1l, 6f) (2 Pulled, 4 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
On base: Walks 0, Hits 1 (1 Up the middle)
Cardinals left handed hitters outs: 11 (2-13)
K=2
g=7 (3 Pulled, 2 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field)
f=2 (1 infield, 1 outfield); (0 Pulled, 0 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field.
Walks, 0; Hits 2 (2 1b) (0 Pulled, 1 Up the middle, 1 Opposite field)
Total: 3-29
+++
Start 1:
April 15 (Opening Day): at Chicago Wrigley Field: Phi 4 Chi 2; Carlton 1-0 (2.25) (Carlton in action--Hall of Fame Youtube), v Ferguson Jenkins (R) (H) (1971 NL Cy Young Award Winner--Baseball Reference) (0-0) (Jenkins in action--Hall of Fame Youtube)
Jenkins' Repertoire: (6'5", 205 lbs; 284-226, 3.34, 7 saves, 1965-1983)
1. Four-seam fastball; 2. Two-seam fastball; 3. Slider; 4. Curve: 5. Changeup (Forkball).
Arm angle: three quarters (according to Tom Seaver it only appeared to be sidearm because Jenkins was "so tall and reached out so far.") (Pitching with Tom Seaver, by Seaver and Steve Jacobs, via James-Neyer (P. 256)
Phi 000 100 102--4 10 0 (0-0--1-0)
Chi 001 000 010--2 4 2 (0-0--0-1)
Time: 2:15; Attendance: 17,401; Saturday, Day Game: 1:15pm; Plate Umpire: Ed Vargo (1 ejection for pitch calls in 1972) (Sporting News Umpire Card, ca: 1973)
Weather conditions (see ballpark diagram for orientation):
Temperature: 1:00-- 54F; 2:00--53; 3:00--52
Wind: 1:00--12MPH (from the NE); 2:00--14 (ENE); 3:00--9 (NE) Wind blowing in
Humidity: 1:00--64%; 2:00--63%; 3:00--63%
Cloudy
Source for all weather information is Weather Underground. WU Source statement.
Standings at close of play, April 15
Retrosheet Box Score and Play by Play
Game story
Chicago Tribune, April 16, 1972, PD1. "Phillies Dump Cubs 4-2", by Bob Logan (proprietary).
Tribune top Headline: "B-52s Bomb Haiphong: Hit Fuel, Supply Dumps in Retaliation" (From Wire Services)1
Other Cultural Artifacts From Ultimate70s.com
Other news stories; Prime Time TV Schedule; Cashbox Top 100 Singles
Carlton (H) opened the delayed (by the first player's strike in modern history [Sports Illustrated, April 10, 1972]) 1972 season by giving up 2 runs and 4 hits in 8 innings before he was lifted for a pinch hitter in the 9th. He was only expected to go 6 but had only thrown 68 pitches in that time. The Phillies started a rally with 2 outs in the 9th against Cubs reliever Bill Hands (Wikipedia), who had come in to replace starter Ferguson Jenkins (H) at the start of the 7th. Jenkins gave up 5 hits and 1 earned run. After the first two batters were retired in the 9th, Ron Stone batted for Carlton and pulled a single to right. Larry Bowa then followed with another hit to right, Stone advancing to third. Then came the pivotal moment, Tim McCarver pulled a ball to right field (a wicked sun field in Wrigley field). Jose Cardenal lost the ball, it went in and out of his glove, and both runners scored. Cardenal claimed that he did not see the ball, but it was ruled an error.
"People don't realize how tough it is to play right field here. All I could do was play the sound with that ball. The sun was in my eyes all the way and the first time I saw the ball it was right in my face. I did the best I could and I'll come out tomorrow and do the same thing."
Jose Cardenal
"All the elements were there to make it a hit. The ball should have been caught but this is the toughest right field in the league."
Tim McCarver
"The ball was in his glove, although the sun probably bothered him."
Cubs coach Pete Reiser, managing because Leo Durocher (H) was sidelined by a "throat virus."
After Carlton got the first 6 Cubs out, they touched him for a run in the 3rd on a single to left by Rick Monday (Wikipedia), followed one out later by a Jenkins apparent double down the right field line to knock the run in. Jenkins, however, missed 1st base and was out on an appeal, turning a man on 2nd with one out into nobody on and 2 outs. The Phillies then quickly tied the game in the 4th on a leadoff home run on the first pitch by Greg Luzinski (into the teeth of a "stiff breeze" coming in from left field). The Phillies took the lead immediately after Jenkins left the game. Denny Doyle singled to center, Carlton laid down a sacrifice bunt, and, with 2 outs, McCarver singled to center to score Doyle. The Cubs tied it in the eighth on a Don Kessinger single and a Hands strike out (most likely failing to sacrifice). Cardenal then forced Kessinger at 2nd. The Cubs right -fielder then stole second and scored on an infield hit by Glen Beckert when the ball popped out of 1st baseman Deron Johnson's glove.
"I was going all the way in that spot. The running game is what I've been playing all my life."
Jose Cardenal
After the 6 consecutive out streak, Carlton had another 6 consecutive out streak from the 3rd to 5th inning, and then another from the 5th to the 7th. He blanked the middle of the Cubs order, Billy Williams (H), Ron Santo (H), and Joe Pepitone (0-12) , striking out Santo once and Pepitone twice. With the assistance of Jenkins' base running blunder, the Cubs never had more than one runner on base during the entire course of the game.
--------------------------------
Here is a "condensed" scorecard of the game. It includes only the Cubs' batting and only during Carlton's time in the game. It does not include what was happening on the bases
Key:
Position in the batting order
Player's name; handedness (R, L, B (switch hitter); defensive position
K=strike out (K(c)=called strikeout when known; W=Walk; G=ground ball; F=ball in the air; E=error; 1b=single; 2b=double; 3b=triple; HR=home run; sb=sacrifice bunt; sf=sacrifice fly
Where the ball was hit: 1=pitcher, 2=catcher, 3=1st base, 4=2nd base, 5=third base, 6=shortstop, 7=left field, 8=center field, 9=right field. A single number only denotes a ball caught in the air, a combination of numbers (6-4, etc.) indicates a ground ball, the first number the number of the fielder who caught the ball (assist), the 2nd number the fielder who the ball was thrown to for the putout.
========
Cubs
1. J. Cardenal R,7 (1)g(4-3)...(3)W......(6)f(8)...(8)g(5-4)
2. G. Beckert R,4 (1)f(8).....(3)g(1-3).(6)f(9)...(8)1b(6)
3. B. Williams(H)L,9(1)g(1-3)..(4)f(3)...(6)f(8)...(8)g(4-3)
4. R. Santo(H)R,5 (2)K........(4)g(6-3).(7)f(8)
5. J. Pepitone L,3 (2)K........(4)f(2)...(7)K
6. R. Hundley R,2 (2)f(5).....(5)f(7)...(7)1b(?)
7. R. Monday L,8 (3)1b(7)....(5)g(1-3).(7)K
8. D. Kessinger B,6(3)f(7).....(5)2b(?)..(8)W
9. F. Jenkins(H),R,1(3)?(9)*...(5)g(4-3)
9. B. Hands R,1..........................(8)K
9. S. Hamilton L,1
*=Jenkins missed 1st base on a double to right. Scoring on the appeal play was 9-4-2-1-3. Jenkins does not get credit for a hit but does get an RBI.
For Carlton
Cumulative: 1 start; 8 innings; 24 outs
Outs: 24 (7 right handers, 3 left handers)
5K; 8g (4 Pulled, 3 Up the middle, 2 Opposite field) 10f (8 in the outfield, 2 Pulled, 4 to center field, 1 Opposite field) 3 in the infield (1 Pulled, 1 Up the middle) 1 appeal
On Base:
2 Walks, 4 hits (3 1b, 1 2b) (1 in the infield, 3 in the outfield) (1 Pulled, 0 Up the middle 1 Opposite field, 2 Unknown)
Total Opposing bating average: 4-28=.143; WHIP (Walks + Hits Per Inning Pitched)= 0.75
For this game: Note: all are 9 inning complete games unless otherwise specifically stated.
Carlton faced 30 batters (7 right handers, 3 left handers): Pitch Count Estimate (30*3.3) + (5*1.5) + (2*2.2)=111 pitches
---
Cubs right handed batters: 3-18; 2 walks; 2K; 5g; 7f; 5 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; 2 Opposite field; 1 out on appeal
Cubs right handed batters outs: 14; 2K; 5 Pulled (2g, 3f [2 outfield]); 4 Up the middle (1g, 3f (all outfield); 3 Opposite field (2g); 1 appeal
Cubs right handed batters on base: 2 W; 3 hits: 1 2b (unknown), 2 1b (1 Opposite field 1 1b, other unknown)
Cubs left handed hitters: 1-10; 0 walks, 3K, 3g, 3f ; 2 Pulled; 4 Up the middle; Opposite field 0
Cubs left handed batters outs: 9; 3K; 2 Pulled (1g, 1f[infield]); 4 Up the middle (2g, 2f (1 infield); 0 Opposite field
Cubs left handed hitters on base: 1 1b (Opposite field )
