Roy Face, American baseball player and carpenter

Step onto the mound of baseball history and meet Elroy Leon Face, born February 20, 1928, a legendary figure widely known by his fitting nickname, The Bullpen Baron. This American former professional baseball relief pitcher wasn't just a player; he was a pioneer who helped shape the very fabric of modern relief pitching during his extensive 17-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career. While he briefly played for other teams, Face is most famously associated with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he spent the vast majority of his illustrious tenure, revolutionizing the role of the bullpen ace.

The Archetype of the Modern Closer

In an era when the specialized "closer" role was still largely undefined, Elroy Leon Face was busy creating its blueprint. He wasn't merely a relief pitcher; he was the archetype, embodying the high-pressure, game-saving specialist we recognize today. His consistent excellence and ability to dominate from the bullpen established him as the National League's greatest reliever until the late 1960s. Face's impact extended beyond just his statistics; he changed the way managers approached the late innings of a game, transforming the bullpen from a secondary unit into a critical component for securing victories. His command and calm under pressure in crucial situations set a new standard for relief pitching, making every appearance a must-watch event for fans.

A Career Laden with Records

Elroy Leon Face's career was a masterclass in breaking new ground and setting records that showcased his extraordinary skill and durability. He became the first major leaguer to save 20 games more than once, a remarkable feat he accomplished three times while also finishing second in the league in saves on three other occasions. But perhaps his most astonishing record came in 1959, when he achieved a still-standing major league record for winning percentage (.947), securing an incredible 18 wins against only one loss – a testament to his unmatched effectiveness as a single-season relief pitcher.

His influence on the National League record books was profound and long-lasting:

• He held the NL record for career games pitched (846) from 1967 until 1986, demonstrating remarkable longevity and consistency.
• From 1962 until 1982, Face held the league record for career saves (193), showcasing his reliability in closing out games.
• To this day, he proudly holds the NL record for career wins in relief (96), a statistic that underscores his ability to earn victories when called upon from the bullpen.
• He maintained the league mark for career innings pitched in relief (1,211+1⁄3) until 1983, highlighting his extensive workload and enduring presence on the mound.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Upon his retirement, Elroy Leon Face's place among baseball's pitching elite was undeniable. He ranked an impressive third in major league history in pitching appearances, behind only the legendary Hoyt Wilhelm and Cy Young. In terms of saves, he stood second all-time, once again trailing only Wilhelm, solidifying his status as one of the game's premier closers. His remarkable contributions are also etched into the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he remains the franchise record holder for both career games (802) and career saves (188). "The Bullpen Baron" not only pitched with distinction but also laid the groundwork for future generations of relief pitchers, forever changing the strategic landscape of America's favorite pastime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elroy Leon Face

Who is Elroy Leon Face?

Elroy Leon Face is an American former professional baseball relief pitcher who played primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates during his 17-year MLB career. He is widely considered a pioneer of modern relief pitching.

What was Elroy Leon Face's nickname?

He was affectionately known as The Bullpen Baron, a moniker that perfectly captured his dominance and regal presence on the mound from the bullpen.

What team did Elroy Leon Face primarily play for?

Elroy Leon Face played primarily for the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he spent the vast majority of his distinguished MLB career and established many franchise records.

What are some of Elroy Leon Face's most notable baseball records?

He set the still-standing major league record for winning percentage (.947) in 1959 with 18 wins and only one loss. He also holds the National League record for career wins in relief (96) and the Pittsburgh Pirates franchise records for career games (802) and saves (188).

How did Elroy Leon Face impact baseball?

Elroy Leon Face is credited with being the archetype of what became known as the modern "closer." His consistent performance and ability to secure victories from the bullpen helped define and elevate the role of the relief pitcher in Major League Baseball.