Sam Malone

Samuel Adams Malone

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 3", Weight 195 lb.
• Debut 1972
• Final Game 1978
• Born May 1, 1948 in Sudbury, MA USA

Sam "Mayday" Malone was a relief pitcher turned bar owner on the American sitcom Cheers. Malone, who pitched for the Red Sox from 1972 to 1978, was portrayed by Ted Danson. The premise of the program was Malone, a recovering alcoholic, bought a bar in Boston. It was a popular watering hole, made more popular that it was owned by a former Red Sox player. It is believed the character was based on Sam McDowell.

Danson's former pitching coach, Ernie Pantusso, tended bar until the actor playing Coach died during the program's fourth season.

Sports Illustrated ran an article on Sam Malone, complete with pictures from his playing career and a MacMillan Encyclopedia entry. His totals were 16-30 in 207 G (1 GS) with a 4.01 ERA in 312 2/3 IP with 109 BB and 40 SO.

In 2004, Ted Danson won $2000 when the Red Sox won the World Series before the United States won the World Cup.