The 6’4″ Goltz, the first native Minnesotan originally signed by the Twins to reach their major league roster, was throwing in his parents’ backyard when he was discovered by a Twins scout in 1966. In his eight years with the Twins, Goltz became the fourth winningest pitcher in club history, never having a losing season. His ascent to the majors was thwarted by arm trouble and a stint in Vietnam. He rebounded for a combined 14-3 mark and a seven-inning no-hitter for Lynchburg (Carolina League) in 1971, his last full minor league season. Though a notoriously slow starter (he didn’t win a game in April until 1979), he won 14 or more games five straight times (1975-79) for Minnesota. He peaked at 20-11 in 1977, tying for the AL lead in victories and starts, and one-hitting the powerful Red Sox on August 23.
Goltz opted for free agency and signed a six-year, multimillion contract with the Dodgers for 1980. He shut out the Giants twice that April, then struggled. Los Angeles released him in May 1982. He managed an 8-5 comeback with the ’82 division champion Angels, but was finished by a torn rotator cuff in 1983.
