Sunday, February 6, 2011

Woodie Fryman

Woodie Fryman, who pitched 18 seasons in the major leagues and was inducted into the Montreal Expos' Hall of Fame in 1995, has died. He was 70.

Fryman won 141 games from 1966-83 with the Expos, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs. He pitched primarily in relief late in his career, saving 17 games for Montreal in 1980.

Fryman had four career one-hitters — including a nearly perfect game when he was a Pittsburgh rookie. He gave up a leadoff hit to the New York Mets, the runner was caught stealing and Fryman didn't allow anyone else on base.

In 1972, Fryman joined the Tigers in the middle of the season and went 10-3 with a 2.06 ERA for them, helping Detroit win the American League East.

Fryman's death Friday night was confirmed by Price Brothers Funeral Home in Elizaville, Kentucky.