#96

Tom Seaver, P

In 1986, Tom Seaver wrapped up his Hall of Fame career inauspiciously with the Red Sox. Then, in dramatic fashion, his team was in the World Series. Although he did not pitch due to an ankle injury, he received one of the loudest ovations during the player introductions.

We could have used him...

If only we could have called on Tom Terrific instead of the Steamer in Game 6, our fortunes may have been different. Seaver would have covered first base base (Bob Stanley did not) on Mookie Wilson's roller. I'd rather believe that his grittiness would have shut down the Mets' rally altogether.

In any case, after being traded to the Red Sox at mid-season for Steve "Psycho" Lyons, Seaver went 5-7 with a 3.80 ERA.

1986 was his last season. He completed his 20-year career with 311 wins, 3640 strike outs, a 2.86 ERA and 9-straight 200 strike out seasons. he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992 with 98.84% of the votes, the highest total ever. Which bears the question...someone actually left him off a ballot?

So here's tip of the cap to Tom Terrific. Thanks for spending a couple of months with the Sox.