For some reason, I was under the impression that Brad Radke killed the White Sox, but his
career game log against the South Siders is worse than his
overall career performance.
It's most likely due to two particular stretches:
In 2003, Radke helped deal the Sox's playoff hopes a death blow with two excellent starts in September. The first came on
Sept. 11, when he pitched seven strong innings to give the Minnesota Twins a 5-2 victory and a share of first place, one that they wouldn't relinquish for the rest of the season. And Radke's
complete game five days later in the middle of a sweep over the Sox helped to keep the Twins rolling towards their second straight division title.
(You can watch
the pennant race here. This site is awfully handy.)
Then in 2006, with a non-existant throwing shoulder, he managed to hold the Sox to only one unearned run
on Aug. 19 -- although he gave up three thanks to piss-poor defense. Unlike
Freddy Garcia the day before, Radke didn't call out his teammates. Then, he lasted only two innings in his
last start against the Sox, giving up four hits and three runs -- but the Twins still won the game.
There are a few Twins who I wouldn't mind seeing tumble towards baseball oblivion, but I always admired the way Radke took the mound. I'd give him a Hall of Fame vote in five years, not because he's truly worthy, but because baseball could use more guys like him.
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Also, Larry Sherry, the MVP of the
1959 World Series, has
died at the age of 71.
He definitely deserved the distinction, considering the insane usage:
Along with the workload, Sherry also had
a nickname that wouldn't fly by today's standards.