Andy Messersmith

About

Retired baseball pitcher best known as a member of the California Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers. He was a four-time All-Star and won Golden Glove awards in 1974 and 1975.

Before Fame

He was born in Toms River, New Jersey and was selected by the California Angels in the 1996 amateur draft.

Trivia

He is remembered for his role in the famous "Seitz decision" of 1975, which ultimately helped to bring about free agency as baseball fans know it today.

Family Life

He was born John Alexander Messersmith. His son, Jason Frank, played quarterback at Servite High School.

Associated With

He and then-Braves pitcher Phil Niekro tied for the greatest number of wins by any National League pitcher in the 1974 season.