September 9, 1923: Eddie Dyer Pitches The Birds To Victory In His First Major League Start

On September 9, 1923, Eddie Dyer made his first major league start for the Redbirds and pitched a nine inning complete game in 3-0 win over the Cubs at Sportsman's Park. Verne Clemons and Milt Stock knocked in a run apiece in the second, then Jack Smith added the last Cardinals run with a solo shot in the third, meanwhile Dyer was dealin. The pitcher walked two men, struck out five, and scattered eight hits in the victory. Dyer also picked up a hit in the contest for the Birds who had nine in the game. His shutout effort was held together with some sensational defense in the ninth. Dyer walked a man before Cubs third baseman John Kelleher hit what looked like a sure hit over second base only to be snagged by the Cards shortstop Howard Freigau that had to make a diving play toward the bag. Freigau flipped the ball to his second baseman Specs Toporcer for the force at second. Then Toporcer turned the double play with a bullet to Rogers Hornsby at first base. Any thoughts of a Cub rally were quickly dashed with the 90 year old web gem and the rookie pitcher picked up a win in his first start in the majors. Dyer, best known for managing the '46 club to the World Series played six years in the majors was primarily a reliever, he posted a 15-15 record before an arm injury ended his playing days in 1927.

Check out the box score: http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/SLN/SLN192309090.shtml