Friend cracked the Majors in 1951, but it was not until 1955 where he proved himself as a bona fide Starting Pitcher. While his record was only 14-9, he led the NL in ERA (2.83) and bWAR for Pitchers (6.0). Over the next three seasons, Friend was a workhorse leasing the league in Games Started in the first three years and Innings Pitched in the first two. The three-time All-Star had his most decorated season in 1958, where he led the NL in Wins (22) and finished third for the Cy Young and sixth for the MVP. Two years later, Friend was a large part of the Pirates surprise World Series win over the New York Yankees.
Friend played for Pittsburgh until 1965, and he had quick stops with both New York teams before retiring after 1966. He would have a losing record of 197-230 but was still highly regarded.
Despite his accomplishments, Friend was left off the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot when he was first eligible in 1972.
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