Intro

The story of Bob Lemon is the tale of three careers: as a mediocre infielder prior to World War II, as a star pitcher during post-war era, and finally as a successful major league manager. Prior to World War II, Lemon had struggled as a light-hitting third baseman and made the switch to the mound on the suggestion of Cleveland manager Lou Boudreau. Lemon learned to pitch on the job with the Indians and eventually won 20 games seven times. A sinker-ball specialist, Lemon teamed with Bob Feller, Early Wynn, and Mike Garcia to form one of the greatest pitching staffs in baseball history. He retired in 1958 with 207 wins, all but 10 of them won in a ten-year span.

Unform Number

#38 (1941), #42 (1942), #6 (1946), #21 (1947-1958)

Replaced By

As Lemon was winding down, Gary Bell and Mudcat Grant were emerging in the Cleveland rotation.

Best Season

He had a lot of very good season, but we'll choose '48 because of his pair of victories in the Tribe's World Series defeat of the Braves.

Factoid 1

In 1949, Bob Lemon hit seven home runs and had a .556 slugging percentage in 108 at-bats. On the mound during his entire career, he allowed opposing hitters just 19 home runs in 1,050 at-bats.

Strengths

Lemon was often used as a pinch-hitter, putting up a lifetime PH mark of 31 hits in 109 at-bats (.284). Lemon's 37 career home runs is second on the all-time career list, behind Wes Ferrell. On the pitching side, Lemon featured a nasty sinker.

Weaknesses

Lemon had control problems throughout his career, walking as many as 120 batters four times. He averaged just under four walks per nine innings, which is almost exactly his strikeout average.

Milestones

On September 11, 1956, almost exactly 15 years to the day that he debuted in the big leagues, Lemon earned his 200th victory. He defeated the Baltimore Orioles, 3-1.

Feats

On June 30, 1948, Lemon pitched a 2-0 no-hitter against the Detroit Tigers.