Eddie Plank

Eddie Plank, born in 1875, was a prominent left-handed pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1901 to 1917. Known for his exceptional control and skill on the mound, Plank finished his career with a remarkable record of 326-194 and an impressive earned run average (ERA) of 2.35. Over his 17-year career, he accumulated 2,246 strikeouts and recorded 23 saves, showcasing his ability to dominate opposing hitters and contribute significantly to his teams' successes. His achievements placed him among the elite pitchers of his era, which was characterized by a transition from the deadball era to a more offensive-minded game. Plank's contributions to baseball were recognized when he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946. He was one of the first great left-handed pitchers in the history of the sport, known not only for his pitching prowess but also for his strategic mind and competitive spirit. Plank's legacy endures as a testament to the skill and artistry of pitching during the early 20th century, a time when the game was evolving rapidly and players were beginning to push the boundaries of what was possible on the field.