I read some sad news about a former Major League pitcher, who starred for the Detroit Tigers. Earl Wilson was the third leg of the triumvirate of pitching talent that led the 1968 World Champion Tigers to success, though he was often overshadowed by Denny McLain (31 wins) and Mickey Lolich (three World Series victories). The previous year, however, when the Tigers fell just short of the Red Sox in their Impossible Dream season, Wilson led the league in victories. Once again, he was overshadowed, this time by Jim Lonborg, who won the Cy Young Award for leading the Red Sox' pitching staff.
Wilson was more than an able pitcher. He also was a strong hitter, retiring with 35 home runs as a pitcher, second most all time behind Wes Ferrell. He often pinch hit for the Tigers. When his playing days were done, he was instrumental in Baseball Assistance Team (BAT), which helps former Major Leaguers and Negro League players who need financial help. Though players today make a minimum of $316,000 it wasn't always such an outstanding paying profession. Moreover, the education levels of many players -- today and in the past -- has often left them vulnerable to being swindled.
Wilson played and lived like a champion.
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