By Budd Bailey, Buffalo Sports Page Columnist
Pud Galvin – Signed by the Bisons in 1878
The first question, of course, centers on the nickname. Pud? It was said he turned batters into pudding. That’s what happens when you win 365 games.
James Francis Galvin had played for a number of teams at different levels when he joined the Bisons – a newcomer to the International Association – in 1878. Pud won 72 games for the Herd in their initial season. Both Galvin and Buffalo earned a promotion to the National League in 1879, and the 22-year-old was ready. He went 37-27 with a 2.28 ERA. In 1884, Galvin was 46-22 with 12 shutouts, and pitched 71 complete games in 72 appearances.
Buffalo’s finances fell apart in 1885, and Galvin had some physical problems as well. He was sold to Pittsburgh of the American Association in mid-season. Galvin was back in form in 1886, winning at least 20 games for the first of four more straight seasons. His career ended in 1892.
Galvin was the first pitcher to win 300 games, the first pitcher to throw a recorded perfect game, and the first pitcher to pick up runners at first, second and third in the same inning. It took until 1965 for him to be selected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, but he deserved it.
Here’s a look at Pud’s biggest year:
(Follow Budd on Twitter @WDX2BB)
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