Troy Percival

Troy Percival was a prominent American professional baseball pitcher, born in 1969, who made a significant impact in Major League Baseball during his career from 1995 to 2009. Known for his exceptional closing abilities, Percival recorded a career save total of 358, ranking him among the elite relievers of his era. His impressive earned run average (ERA) of 3.17 and 781 strikeouts underscored his effectiveness on the mound, where he showcased a powerful fastball and a devastating slider that made him a formidable opponent for hitters. Throughout his career, Percival earned four All-Star selections, highlighting his status as one of the top closers in the game. He played a vital role during a period characterized by offensive explosions and high-scoring games, often serving as a reliable last line of defense for his teams. His contributions were particularly notable in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when he helped solidify the bullpen for the Anaheim Angels, ultimately leading to their World Series championship in 2002. Percival's legacy as one of the premier relievers of his time is marked by his resilience, competitive spirit, and significant achievements in an era that required pitchers to adapt to ever-evolving offensive challenges.