Cy Acosta

From BR Bullpen

Acostacy.jpg

Cecilio Acosta Miranda

  • Bats Right, Throws Right
  • Height 5' 10", Weight 165 lb.

BR page

Biographical Information[edit]

Cecilio "Cy" Acosta had an excellent 143 ERA+ in his four years in the majors. In his first season, his 1.56 ERA in 26 games (34 2/3 innings) led the Chicago White Sox. That earned him an opportunity as closer in his second season, and he responded with an ERA of 2.23 and 18 saves in 48 appearances; his ERA was second best behind Ken Frailing, who made only ten appearances. His third season was a bit tougher (3.74, 3 saves in 45 2/3 innings), although he was still the second best reliever on the team. He was purchased by the Philadelphia Phillies before the 1975 season, and finished his career with six games (6.23) in relief.

Acosta is the answer to a great trivia question. He was the first pitcher to bat in the American League after the introduction of the designated hitter. On June 20, 1973, with the ChiSox playing the California Angels, Chicago chose to use their designated hitter, Tony Muser, as a defensive replacement for first baseman Dick Allen in the eighth inning with an 8-2 lead. This eliminated the DH for the remainder of the game. Muser was a much better fielder but Allen did not like to DH. Acosta struck out against the Angels' Rich Hand in his plate appearance. In another bit of trivia, he was the last pitcher to go by Cy until Cy Sneed came up with the Houston Astros in 2019.

Acosta primarily wore number 41 in the majors. He pitched 17 seasons in the Mexican League, from 1968 to 1971 and again from 1975 to 1986. He went 122-137 with a 3.42 ERA and was elected to the Salon de la Fama in 2005.

Related Sites[edit]