Originally signed by the Cubs, Perranoski went to the Dodger organization in 1960 in a four-player deal that sent Don Zimmer to Chicago. Switched from starting to relieving, he was used exclusively against lefthanders when he first came to the Dodgers but became the stopper in 1962 and led the majors with 70 appearances. The next year he was brilliant (16-3, 1.67), leading the NL in winning percentage and appearances. Using a fastball, curve, and sinker, Perranoski remained the mainstay of the Los Angeles bullpen through 1967, when he again led the league in appearances. Traded to Minnesota before the 1968 season, Perranoski started slowly in the new league, but benefited from increased work in 1969-70. He led the AL in saves and was TSN AL Fireman of the Year both seasons. The Michigan State graduate retired with 179 saves. He served for years as the Dodgers pitching coach under manager Tom Lasorda.
