[Bobbuttons]

Originally Posted by Tiger Fan

BRAVES DEAL RIZZUTO TO CUBS
In an attempt to upgrade a woeful pitching staff the Boston Braves have traded shortstop Phil Rizzuto to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for pitcher Ken Raffensberger. The 29 year old lefthander will likely fit into the number two slot in the Braves rotation behind another solid lefty in young Warren Spahn. Raffensberger has spent 7 seasons with the Cubs, going 14-13 a year ago with a 3.41 era. He won a career high 19 games two seasons ago and made his only allstar appearance. The Braves also get minor league pitcher Ed Chandler in the deal.

Interesting to see Raffensberger dealt. In my alternate baseball history (starting in 1931 with new franchises after the original MLB folded) he became one of the top pitchers in history, ultimately making the Hall of Fame. I just finished the 1982 season and he still ranks 5th all time in wins (295), 6th in ERA (2.66), 3rd in winning % (.678), 2nd in shutouts (49) and 4th in strikeouts (3,402). He won 3 World Series (1 WS MVP), 7 Cy Young Awards and made 11 All-Star appearances. I just noticed that he was drafted in the 4th round (41st overall).. so pretty good career for that low of a pick.