3. Eddie Plank

Eddie Plank arrived in Philadelphia in 1901, skipping the minor leagues to become a key part of Connie Mack’s famous pitching staff. As the leading left-hander of the Deadball Era, "Gettysburg Eddie" threw with a sidearm style and was known for a cross-fire motion that puzzled batters for more than ten years. Over 14 seasons with the Athletics, he was a central figure during multiple championship periods, setting franchise records for longevity and durability that still stand today.

After a successful 17-win debut in 1901, Plank achieved a historic milestone by recording four straight 20-win seasons from 1902 to 1905. He was the driving force behind the Athletics’ 1905 World Series appearance, demonstrating exceptional skill on the mound despite limited run support; he posted a 1.59 ERA across two complete games and notably faced off against the legendary Christy Mathewson of the New York Giants in one of the most intense pitching duels in baseball history.

Between 1910 and 1913, acting as the veteran anchor for a team that captured three world titles. While localized arm trouble sidelined him for the 1910 postseason, he returned to reach a new plateau in 1911, winning 23 games and securing a vital victory in the World Series to help the Athletics claim the championship. He followed this with a career-high summit of 26 wins in 1912 and another brilliant postseason performance in 1913, where he finally outdueled Mathewson in the World Series clincher to secure his second ring. During this peak, he was a giant of efficiency, leading the American League in shutouts twice and proving that his sidearm curveball was the most reliable weapon in the game.

Following the 1914 season, the organization faced a localized financial crunch and the emergence of the Federal League. After the Athletics were upset by the "Miracle Braves" in the World Series, Plank was released and signed a higher-paying contract with the St. Louis Terriers. Plank compiled a 284-162 record, a 2.39 ERA, and 1,985 strikeouts as an Athletic.

Plank was chosen for the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946 and the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021.  Plank was also honored by the Philadelphia Baseball Wall of Fame in 1985.