Rick Sutcliffe, born on June 21, 1956 in Independence, Missouri, developed a love for baseball at a young age. He excelled in the sport throughout his youth and eventually caught the attention of scouts from the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 1976, he was drafted by the Dodgers and began his professional baseball career.
After working his way through the minor leagues, Sutcliffe made his Major League debut in 1976 as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers. He quickly made a name for himself, winning the NL Rookie of the Year award in his first year in the big leagues. His impressive performance on the mound earned him a spot in the Dodgers' starting rotation, where he solidified his position as a top pitcher in the league.
Throughout his career, Sutcliffe was known for his dominant pitching and competitive spirit. He was a three-time All-Star and won the prestigious Cy Young Award in 1984 after leading the Chicago Cubs to the playoffs. His standout performance that season solidified him as one of the best pitchers in the league.
Sutcliffe's success continued throughout his career, as he consistently put up impressive numbers on the mound. He had the rare distinction of winning the Comeback Player of the Year award twice, in 1987 and again in 1992, showcasing his resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
After retiring from professional baseball, Sutcliffe transitioned to a career in broadcasting. He became a prominent voice in the world of baseball, calling games for MLB International and providing commentary for the World Series, ALCS, and NLCS games. His in-depth knowledge of the game and engaging personality made him a fan favorite among viewers.
Off the field, Sutcliffe married Robin Ross in 1978 and the couple has shared a strong and enduring relationship. He has been active in charitable work and has used his platform to give back to the community.