Rick Reuschel’s two-part career began as a stellar starter for the Cubs. The portly Illinois native won 10 or more games each of nine straight seasons (1972-80), becoming one of the club’s all-time leaders in wins, games and strikeouts. Teammate Mike Krukow tagged Reuschel Big Daddy during this period. Rick and Paul became the first brothers to combine on a major league shutout, August 21, 1975.
Reuschel missed the 1982 season with a torn right rotator cuff that threatened to end his career. His renaissance came when he was given a chance by the floundering Pirates. His 1985 season (14-8, 2.27) earned Comeback Player of the Year honors. Possessing outstanding control, Reuschel tied a Pittsburgh record with 13 wins at Three Rivers Stadium in 1985. He also won a Gold Glove, testimony to athletic skills belied by his physique. Traded by the rebuilding Pirates, he helped San Francisco reach post-season play in 1987 and remained a big winner to the end of the decade despite DL time in 1989.
