Vernon Louis “Lefty” Gomez (1908–89) was an American baseball player, best known as a left-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees. A dominant force in Major League Baseball (MLB) 1930–43, he won five World Series titles and was a seven-time All-Star. His career combined exceptional athleticism with sharp wit, making him one of baseball’s most colorful figures.
Born in Rodeo, California, Gomez grew up on a ranch, developing a strong work ethic. He gained attention as a promising pitcher with the San Francisco Seals, leading to his purchase by the Yankees in 1929. He soon became a key player, winning 20-plus games in four seasons and leading the league in strikeouts multiple times. His best seasons came in 1934 and 1937, when he won the pitching Triple Crown by leading in wins, ERA, and strikeouts. He excelled in the World Series, winning six games without a loss.
After retiring in 1943, Gomez became a popular speaker, known for his humor. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame (1972.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Lefty Gomez
If you don’t throw it, they can’t hit it.
—Lefty Gomez
Topics: Simplicity
I was never nervous when I had the ball, but when I let go I was scared to death.
—Lefty Gomez
Topics: Baseball
I’m throwing twice as hard as I ever did. It’s just not getting there as fast
—Lefty Gomez
Topics: Baseball
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