Lou Burdette

Selva Lewis “Lew” Burdette (November 22, 1926 - February 6, 2007) was one of the most durable and successful starting pitchers of the 1950s, dominating the National League as a member of the Milwaukee Braves pitching staff. Burdette originally signed and pitched for the New York Yankees, his greatest success would come against them when he won three complete games in the 1957 World Series including two shutouts. Lew pitched 18 years in the Majors with the Yankees (1950), the Boston/Milwaukee Braves (1951-1952/1953-1963), the St. Louis Cardinals (1963-1964), the Chicago Cubs (1964-1965), the Philadelphia Phillies (1965) and the California Angels (1966-1967). He led the National League in ERA (2.70) in 1956, winning percentage (.667) going 20-10 in 1958, wins (21) in 1959, and led once in starts, innings pitched and complete games as well as twice in shutouts. During the 1957 World Series, Burdette became the first pitcher in 37 years to win three complete WS games. In 1957, Lew was named the World Series MVP, won the Babe Ruth Award and earned his first of two All-Star appearances. Lew was the winning pitcher against the Pirates Harvey Haddix 12-2/3 perfect game. Lew Burdette finished his career with a 203-144 record, had 158 complete games and 33 shutouts in 373 starts, had 128 games finished including 31 saves, struck out 1,074 batters and posted a 3.66 career ERA.