Nelson\'s 15-year playing career included the entire 1965 season and parts of five others in the Major Leagues. In 1965, he appeared in 28 games and 54​2⁄3 innings pitched for the American League champion Twins and was winless in four decisions with three saves. However, he did not pitch in the 1965 World Series. Three years later, in his second stint with the Cardinals, Nelson—recalled from the minor leagues in midyear—contributed two wins to the Redbirds\' 1968 pennant-winning season, both as a starting pitcher. He then appeared in the 1968 World Series in a "mop-up" role in Game 6, hurling a scoreless ninth inning in a game won by the opposing Detroit Tigers, 13–1.\n', '

During his big-league career, Nelson allowed 184 hits and 69 bases on balls in 173​2⁄3 innings pitched, recording 98 strikeouts and five saves. After retiring from the field, Nelson then scouted for the Cardinals and other MLB clubs.\n', '

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