TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/24/2022 | Received: 6/3/2022 | 9 Days
- ’69 Topps, ’74 Topps, ’77 Topps (2)
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 2/23/2024 | Received: 3/6/2024 | 13 Days
- ’70 O-Pee-Chee, ’71 O-Pee-Chee, ’75 Topps, ’77 Topps
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Gary Nolan’s career in Major League Baseball (MLB) is a story of immense talent, perseverance, and unfortunate injuries that shortened what could have been a Hall of Fame trajectory. As a vital part of the Cincinnati Reds’ iconic “Big Red Machine” teams of the 1970s, Nolan’s ability to deliver consistent, high-level pitching earned him a place in baseball history.
Gary Lynn Nolan was born on May 27, 1948, in Herlong, California, and grew up in Oroville. A right-handed pitcher, Nolan displayed a talent for baseball from an early age. By the time he reached high school, he was already on the radar of professional scouts due to his blazing fastball and remarkable control. The Cincinnati Reds selected Nolan in the first round (13th overall) of the 1966 MLB Draft, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact.
At just 18 years old, Gary Nolan made his MLB debut on April 15, 1967. He wasted no time showcasing his potential, finishing his rookie season with an impressive 14-8 record and a 2.58 ERA in 33 games with 32 starts. One of the highlights of Nolan’s rookie year came on June 7, 1967, when he struck out 15 San Francisco Giants batters, including the legendary Willie Mays three times. His dominance earned him third place in the National League Rookie of the Year voting.
Nolan’s first few seasons established him as one of baseball’s most promising young pitchers. However, arm and shoulder injuries began to plague him as early as 1970, limiting his effectiveness and sidelining him for significant stretches. Despite the setbacks, Nolan persevered and reemerged as a vital part of the Reds’ success in the mid-1970s.
The Cincinnati Reds of the 1970s were one of the most dominant teams in baseball history, and Gary Nolan played a crucial role in their success.
- Comeback and 1975 Season: After missing the entire 1974 season due to injuries, Nolan returned in 1975 with a reinvented approach. He relied less on his fastball and more on control and precision, evolving into an elite control pitcher. That season, he went 15-9 with a 3.16 ERA, helping the Reds reach the World Series.
- 1975-76 Championships: Nolan was a key member of the Reds’ back-to-back World Series championship teams in 1975 and 1976. In 1975, he posted a 15-9 record and started Game 1 of the World Series against the Boston Red Sox, helping the Reds to their first championship in 35 years. The following season, he went 15-9 again, contributing to one of the greatest teams in MLB history, as the Reds swept the New York Yankees in the 1976 World Series.
Over his 10-year MLB career (1967-1977), Nolan compiled: 110 Wins, 70 Losses, 3.08 ERA, 1,039 Strikeouts, 250 Starts
Though Nolan’s numbers are impressive, they tell only part of the story. His ability to bounce back from injuries and adapt his pitching style speaks to his baseball IQ and determination.
Injuries ultimately forced Nolan to retire at the age of 29, cutting short what many believe could have been a Hall of Fame-worthy career. After baseball, Nolan lived a relatively quiet life, stepping away from the spotlight. He briefly worked as a pitching coach and later became involved in various business ventures.
Nolan has also been candid about the physical toll his career took on his body, particularly the arm injuries that plagued him throughout his time in the majors. Despite the challenges, he remains a beloved figure among Reds fans and a symbol of perseverance.
Gary Nolan may not have the longevity or cumulative stats of some of his peers, but his contributions to the Cincinnati Reds during one of their most successful eras cannot be overstated. His ability to adapt his pitching style mid-career and deliver under pressure helped solidify the Reds’ place in baseball history.
For Reds fans, Nolan is remembered as the quiet ace, a player who let his performance on the mound do the talking. His story is a reminder of how fleeting greatness can be, but also how impactful it is when it shines.
Gary Nolan’s legacy lives on as one of the most talented pitchers of his time, and his role in the Big Red Machine era ensures his place in the annals of baseball history.
The Score on Gary Nolan – 6.5
Gary has a really classic signature and he does a really great job on your cards. He mostly signs in the same spot on the cards with the same angle. But there are a couple here where he switches things up to different degrees to make things look good. I think my favorite is the 1974 Topps card in the first return and the 1970 O-Pee-Chee card in the second return.
Thanks Mr. Nolan! I’m giving these a 6.5 overall.
These are my second and third successes from him. To see the first success I had, check out my post from July 2024.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.