Bill Gilbreth Biography
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- Born Sept. 3, 1947
William Freeman Gilbreth (September 3, 1947 – July 12, 2020) was an American professional baseball pitcher who appeared in 14 games over three Major League Baseball (MLB) seasons for the 1971–1972 Detroit Tigers and 1974 California Angels. The left-hander, a native of Abilene, Texas, was listed as 6 feet (1.8 m) tall and 180 pounds (82 kg).
Gilbreth was selected by the Tigers in the third round of the 1969 June MLB draft after graduating from Abilene Christian University. He was recalled from the minor leagues in the midst of the 1971 season, and in his big-league debut — as the Tigers' starting pitcher against the Cleveland Indians at Tiger Stadium on June 25 — he fired a complete game, 6–1 victory. Gilbreth allowed only five hits and struck out seven, collecting two singles in four at bats at the plate.
After a no-decision in his second start against the Boston Red Sox on July 1, Detroit manager Billy Martin gave Gilbreth his third starting opportunity on July 8 against Martin's old team, the New York Yankees. Gilbreth responded with another complete-game triumph, a 3–1 three-hitter. However, ten days later, in his fourth starting assignment, Gilbreth was roughed up by the Kansas City Royals, allowing four bases on balls, two hits (including a home run by Lou Piniella), and seven earned runs in only 1+ inning of work. He was charged with the 8–2 defeat, his final MLB decision.
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