Sports History

Donald Howard Sutton, nicknamed "Black and Decker" for his precise pitching arsenal, carved a 23-year Major League Baseball career out of control, consistency, and unwavering dedication. From his rookie season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he shared the rotation with legends like Sandy Koufax and Don Drysdale, to his final days pitching for the California Angels, he left an indelible mark on the game, amassing 324 wins, 3,574 strikeouts, and a Hall of Fame induction in 1998.

Early Days & L.A. Legacy: Born in Alabama in 1945, Sutton honed his craft in college before joining the Dodgers in 1966. He quickly established himself as a reliable starter, racking up double-digit wins in 21 of his 23 seasons. His pinpoint control, characterized by his low walk totals, complemented his powerful breaking pitches, making him a nightmare for opposing hitters. He was a key contributor to the Dodgers' five National League pennants and their 1988 World Series title.

Beyond L.A.: After 16 seasons with the Dodgers, Sutton embarked on a journeyman phase, playing for the Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, and California Angels. Despite changes in scenery, his consistency never wavered. He won at least 11 games in every season except 1983 and 1988, solidifying his reputation as a dependable arm. He even notched his 300th victory with the Angels in 1986, becoming only the ninth pitcher to reach the milestone at the time.

Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Don Sutton's life and career are recorded in this bio. His MLB career started with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, and the California Angels. He was an AS MVP, four-time All-Star, and held the ERA title in one season. Sutton is one fo the top MLB players to have worn the Number 20 Jersey.

ThisDayinBaseball.com has tons of June 18 action like this:
1986 - California Angels right-hander Don Sutton wins his 300th career game.

Don Sutton bio by the Society for American Baseball Research.