Detroit Tigers Greatest All-Star Game Memories

1976 – Fidrych Starts for the American League

Mark Fidrych took the nation by storm in 1976 with his talent plus eccentric habits on the mound. He was named the starting pitcher for the AL after amassing a 9-2 record with 1.78 ERA in the first half of the season.

The game became a letdown for Fidrych and his fans. He pitched two innings, giving up two runs on four hits and taking the loss in a 7-1 victory by the National League.

Fidrych went on to continue dominating opponents in the second half of 1976, finishing with a 19-9 record with a 2.34 ERA. He also completed 24 of the 29 games.

The following season he suffered a knee injury that kept him out until late May. He was still tough when he returned, putting together a 6-2 record before coming up with a dead arm July 4 against the Orioles. He was never the same pitcher.

Fidrych died tragically and way too young at the age of 54 in an accident as he was working on his truck.

Next: Parrish Packs His Rifle