Former AL Cy Young winner, Denny McLain experienced a major career downfall after being suspended for his connection to gambling and bookmaking. He missed half the 1970 season and posted a record of 3-5.
McLain was a dominant pitcher during his career, becoming just the 4th pitcher in history to win both Cy Young and MVP in the same season. He entered 1970 with a career record of 114-57.
After being suspended in February, McLain wasn’t reinstated until July 1st. When he came back, he was ineffective and failed to maintain the same success. He went 3-5 and posted a 4.63 ERA and even got suspended a second time for throwing water at Detroit reporters during a game.
Following a rough season in 1970, McLain was shipped off to the Washington Senators for the 1971 season. This season would go on to be just as bad. He often clashed with teammate Ted Williams and posted a record of 10-22 with a 4.28 ERA. He was traded to the Oakland Athletics after the season, but only started 5 times, with a record of 1-2 and a 6.04 ERA. He was once again traded at the end of the season, this time to the Atlanta Braves. His collapse continued, as he went 3-5 with a 6.50 ERA on the year. This would be his final MLB season ending his career with a 131-91 record.
