Elon law prof, and Lounge fan, Howard Katz (pictured) submits this week's trivia question:
Which player hit a home run in his first major league at bat, at the
first major league game he ever attended, on the first pitch thrown to
him, off the pitcher for whom he was traded? And who was the pitcher?
Howard's hints: (1) both were two-time all-stars; (2) the batter had almost 200 career home runs; and (3) the pitcher had almost 300 career wins.
I'll invite Howard to moderate the "comments."
Jay Bell, off Bert Blyleven, on September 29, 1986. The Twins won 6-5.
You are correct!
I'm guessing CPW is either a Twins or Indians fan (or maybe even a fan of the Pirates – who acquired Bell for virtually nothing after the Tribe gave up on him).
It may be surprising to many fans that Bell, a good ballplayer, and Blyleven, who many think should be in the Hall of Fame, appeared in the same number of all-star games. Perhaps that argues against his HoF credentials.
To those who argue that Blyleven (287-250) belongs in the HOF, query their thoughts on Jim Kaat (283-237).
Tim, have you read Rich Lederer on Blyleven v. Kaat? (I assume you've read Lederer on Blyleven generally, as he's one of Blyleven's strongest advocates.) If not, you can read him here: http://baseballanalysts.com/archives/2004/12/bert_blyleven_f_1.php
Quick summary: Kaat and Blyleven are "essentially similar" (using James's metric), but are hardly equally qualified for the HOF (if anyone is "qualified" for the institution). Blyleven well beats Kaat in ERA+ (118 v. 107), RSAA (344 v. 144), WHIP (1.20 v. 1.26), Ks (3701 v. 2461), Ks per BB (2.80 v. 2.27), CGs (242 v. 180), and shutouts (60 v. 31).
CPW, no I have not read Lederer. Thanks for the link!