Recently read that Jacob deGrom established a new record for the lowest ERA in May.
So, who held the record before you ask?
Why none other than former Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Chris Short. Though he had some strong outings before 1964; he was 32-42 entering the season, but this was his breakout season
Along with a number of his teammates in one of the most thrilling pennant races ever.
On this date—June 10th in a 4-1 win over the Pirates, Short was 4-1 with a 1.09 ERA. He continued to limit the opposition to very few runs and win games as the Phillies became the talk of the National League.
On September 14th he was 17-7 with a 1.85 ERA, and as such looked like he might win the ERA title and be a 20 game-winner and go to the World Series.
Many baseball fans know that the tailspin was soon to become legend for this star-crossed team. Short gave up 15 earned runs in his last five starts (30⅔ innings) and St. Louis won the National League pennant.
Was able to see Chris Short pitch in person in the all-star game in 1967 at Angel Stadium, and he sure was impressive that afternoon.
Have written about the four men of the 2000 club before, Frank Robinson, Ernie Banks, Willie Mays, and Henry Aaron—Chris Short allowed these four Hall of Famers just 11 hits in 31 at-bats in 1964, but even more impressive, these four sluggers combined to hit just one home run (Frank Robinson).
