1977 Topps - Bert Blyleven.

A game and a half. That's the Rangers lead as the A's keep charging. Got hairy in a hurry didn't it? Hope the guys can get it going against the Sox in Boston tonight.

No game yesterday though so it's time to take a look back at 1977. Bert Blyleven's up today on card number 630 of the 1977 Topps set.

Blyleven had an outstanding season in 1977. His 14-12 record was more indicative of the run support he received than the way he pitched.

Bert made 30 starts and pitched 234.2 innings while completing 15 games. Five of those complete games were shutouts - a team best. He struck out 182 opposing batters (most on the team) while walking just 69. His ERA tallied to 2.72 (best in the starting rotation and second best on the team) and his WHIP to a team and league-leading 1.065.

At 26 years of age Bert Blyleven still had plenty of potential. He might not have been the pitcher with the most wins for Texas in 1977 but he was the most effective in the starting rotation. When Bert took the hill the team had a chance to win.