John Cerutti, who would have turned 65 today, was a valued left-handed pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays from the late 1980s. Over six seasons, he achieved a record of 46-37 with a commendable 3.87 ERA. His peak year was 1989, marked by an 11-11 record and a 3.07 ERA over 205 innings. Cerutti recounted his first Major League game experience, highlighting the challenges he faced, including arriving late and adjusting to pitching under pressure against top hitters.
I was called up on 1 September 1985. I didn't arrive until the fourth inning of the game because of the flight time and the CNE going on. I got to the clubhouse and I got dressed in my uniform and went into the dugout.
Cox said, 'Welcome to the big leagues, kid.' Steve this is John. John this is Steve.' I told Steve I threw a fastball, curveball and forkball.
I made an adjustment and I bounced it: ball two. Now everyone knew I was going to throw a fastball, including Harold Baines.
I reared back and threw a fastball down the middle of the plate, and he foul-tipped it back, and it struck the umpire.
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