Larry Jansen

The lantern-jawed Jansen was nearing his 27th birthday when he arrived in the NL, but for five seasons he was one of the league’s best right handers. After being purchased from the Pacific Coast League, he had a magnificent rookie year in 1947, going 21-5 and leading the league in winning percentage. He threw an outstanding overhand curve and a good fastball, and had excellent control. After one of his ten consecutive complete-game wins, Giants catcher Walker Cooper commented, “I don’t believe he missed the target (catcher’s mitt) by more than two inches all day.” He won 18 in 1948 and 19 in 1950, while tying for the league lead with five shutouts. In 1951, the mild-mannered Jansen combined with Sal Maglie as the Giants’ one-two pitching punch in winning the “miracle” pennant. They tied for the league lead in victories with 23 each.

Later, as pitching coach for the Giants, he helped develop Juan Marichal and Gaylord Perry.