Willard Mains

Willard Mains, born in 1868, was a professional baseball pitcher whose career spanned from 1888 to 1896. Playing during the late 19th century, Mains contributed to the formative years of Major League Baseball, a time marked by the transition from the deadball era to a more dynamic style of play. Over his career, he compiled a record of 16 wins and 17 losses, showcasing his competitive spirit on the mound. Mains posted an earned run average (ERA) of 3.53, reflecting his ability to manage opposing hitters effectively, and he recorded a total of 96 strikeouts, indicating his proficiency in overpowering batters. Mains' career, though modest in terms of wins, came at a pivotal time in baseball history when the game was evolving rapidly. His lone save highlights the varied roles that pitchers began to adopt during this era, as the concept of specialization was starting to take root. While his tenure in the league was relatively brief, Mains' contributions as a pitcher helped lay the groundwork for the future of the game, making him a notable figure in the annals of baseball history.