1983 Topps Super Veteran – Tug McGraw
Although he may ultimately be best known as country music superstar Tim McGraw’s dad, Tug McGraw enjoyed a successful 19-year baseball career.
In 19 seasons, McGraw appeared in 824 games primarily as a relief pitcher. As a member of the New York Mets for the first 9 years of his career and then spending the next 10 seasons with the Phillies, McGraw established himself as a dependable role player. With a career record of 96-92 along with 180 saves, McGraw did not figure into too many decisions, but he did help his teams wins games and reach the playoffs quite often.
McGraw’s team made it to the playoffs 7 times which included 2 trips to the World Series. In 1973 his Mets team lost their opportunity to win the championship, but 7 seasons later while with the Phillies, McGraw won his lone World Series title. In that series, Tug appeared in 4 games and collected 2 saves while working 7 2/3 innings. His sold efforts helped solidify the Phillies bullpen which ultimately landed the team with the World Series title.
Tug McGraw was a 2-time All-star. And although he was never considered to be an elite pitcher, he did finish in 5th place for the Cy Young award during the 1980 season. In that season Tug went 5-4 with 20 saves. He had a 1.46 ERA and struck out 75 batters while walking just 9.
Tug McGraw quietly put together an impressive career. And the term ‘Super Veteran’ is a fitting one!!!
Ya Gotta Believe!!!!!!