Let’s forget about some of the things that made Jose Canseco famous (or infamous). The steroid use. The admission of steroid use. Throwing other players under the bus by (accusing) discussing their steroid use. The boxing. Madonna. The baseball that bounced off his head for a Home Run.
Vida Blue was a unique pitcher in that he was a southpaw who was known for his power. Blue first cracked the Athletics roster in 1969 but would spend most of that year in 1970 in the minors. Oakland thought they had something in Blue, who would begin 1971 as a starter. What happened that year was one of the most incredible campaigns ever for an Athletics Pitcher.
Jim “Catfish” Hunter received his colorful nickname from his team owner, Charlie O. Finley, who felt that gave his pitcher character. That was a recurring theme for Finley, who did similar things with other players, but this is the story about the star pitcher for Oakland in the early 70s.
