He’s a name that still echoes in the hearts of baseball fans, especially those who followed the San Francisco Giants during his prime. This retired pitcher made a lasting impact over his outstanding decade-long career, becoming a true standout on the mound. One of the most memorable aspects of his legacy? His 105 wins—yes, 105—which set a franchise record as the most ever by a left-handed pitcher in Giants history. That kind of consistency and excellence doesn’t come around often.
Before he became a household name in Major League Baseball, he was just a young talent from Hoyleton, Illinois. Back in 1991, it was the Montreal Expos who first saw his potential and drafted him, setting him on the path to greatness. Along the way, he found love with a woman named Karla, and together they built a life filled with family and purpose. They’re proud parents of two daughters, a personal triumph that means just as much—if not more—than any win on the field.
Even in retirement, his story continues to inspire. He wasn’t just a player; he was a cornerstone of an era for the Giants, and his contributions are still remembered fondly by teammates, fans, and analysts alike.
His standout year was definitely 2002, when he really showed what he was capable of. He posted an impressive 3.23 ERA that season, and his performance played a huge role in leading the Giants to the World Series. Yeah, you could say that was his peak—everything just came together perfectly for him. It wasn’t just about the stats, though they were strong; it was how consistently he delivered when the team needed him most. That season, he proved beyond doubt why he’s considered such a key figure in the franchise’s history.