Baltimore Orioles Mount Rushmore
By David Hill
Jim Palmer (1965-1967, 1969-1984)
Known for his time as an underwear model, Jim Palmer was one of the top pitchers of his era, and had one of the smoothest deliveries in the game.
The ace for the Baltimore Orioles during their Golden Age, Palmer won 15 or more games 12 times, leading the league from 1975 through 1977. He led the league in ERA and winning percentage twice, proving to be one of the dominant pitchers in the game. Palmer was also a workhorse, leading the league in innings four times, and having 11 seasons with 200 or more innings.
Naturally, the accolades followed. Palmer was a six time All Star and three time Cy Young award winner, finishing in the top ten of the MVP vote three times. Overall, he produced a 268-152 record, along with a 2.86 ERA and a 1.180 WHiP. In his 3948 innings, Palmer struck out 2212 batters while issuing 1311 walks.
Palmer is also known for another interesting feat. During his career, he never gave up a grand slam, an impressive feat as he ranked in the top ten in homers allowed four times, and served up 303 long balls. Palmer is also the only pitcher to give up three homers during the All Star Game, a feat he accomplished in 1977.
Jim Palmer was the greatest pitcher in the history of the Baltimore Orioles. His number 22 hangs in perpetuity to his impressive career.