Milt Pappas, American baseball player (b. 1939)

Milton Steven Pappas, born on May 11, 1939, and passing away on April 19, 2016, was an accomplished American professional baseball player. Known affectionately as "Gimpy," he carved out a remarkable 17-year career in Major League Baseball as a durable right-handed pitcher, gracing the mound from 1957 through 1973. His reputation as a control specialist made him a valuable asset to every team he represented.

A Stellar Start with the Baltimore Orioles

Pappas began his professional journey with the Baltimore Orioles, where he played for nine seasons from 1957 to 1965. It was during this formative period that he truly established himself as a formidable pitcher. His consistent performance and mastery of the strike zone earned him three coveted All-Star selections for the Orioles in 1962, 1964, and 1965, a testament to his impact as a key figure in the team's pitching rotation during a pivotal era for the franchise.

A Distinguished Career Across Major League Teams

Following his successful tenure in Baltimore, Pappas's career path led him to other prominent clubs. He brought his reliable arm to the Cincinnati Reds, pitching for them from 1966 to 1968. He then joined the Atlanta Braves, contributing to their staff from 1968 to 1970. His final stop was with the Chicago Cubs, where he played from 1970 until his retirement in 1973. It was during his time with the Cubs that Milton Pappas etched his name deeper into baseball history. On September 2, 1972, he pitched a memorable no-hitter against the San Diego Padres at Wrigley Field, a performance that famously came within a single pitch of being a perfect game before he issued a walk to the final batter. This iconic moment underscored his precision and mental toughness on the mound, captivating fans and further solidifying his legacy as a true artist of pitching.

A Legacy of Durability and Skill

Throughout his extensive 17-year career, Milton Pappas showcased remarkable consistency and an impressive workload. He appeared in 520 Major League games, starting 465 of them, a clear indication of his status as a front-line pitcher. His career statistics are a testament to his effectiveness: he amassed 209 wins against 164 losses, recorded an impressive 43 shutouts, and struck out 1,728 batters. Over 3,186 innings pitched, Pappas maintained a solid career earned run average (ERA) of 3.40, a remarkable achievement for a pitcher in an era often dominated by powerful hitters. These numbers reflect not only his talent but also his enduring presence and crucial contributions to his teams for nearly two decades.

Post-Playing Recognition

In recognition of his profound impact on the game, particularly during his foundational years, Milton Pappas was deservedly inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 1985. His career stands as a lasting example of a pitcher who combined control, longevity, and key moments of brilliance to leave an indelible mark on Major League Baseball.

Frequently Asked Questions About Milton Pappas

What was Milton Pappas's nickname?

Milton Pappas was known by the nickname "Gimpy" throughout his professional baseball career.

Which MLB teams did Milton Pappas play for?

Pappas played for four Major League Baseball teams: the Baltimore Orioles (1957–1965), Cincinnati Reds (1966–1968), Atlanta Braves (1968–1970), and Chicago Cubs (1970–1973).

What were some of Milton Pappas's significant career achievements?

Among his notable achievements, Milton Pappas was a three-time All-Star for the Baltimore Orioles (1962, 1964, 1965), pitched a memorable no-hitter for the Chicago Cubs in 1972 (famously coming within one pitch of a perfect game), and was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 1985. He also accumulated 209 career wins and 43 shutouts.

When was Milton Pappas inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame?

Milton Pappas was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 1985, recognizing his foundational contributions during his nine seasons with the club.

How many career wins did Milton Pappas achieve as a pitcher?

Milton Pappas concluded his Major League Baseball career with an impressive 209 wins, placing him among the more accomplished pitchers of his era.