Gomez, Lefty (1908-1989), was one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. Gomez pitched for the New York Yankees of the American League from 1930 to 1942. In 1934 and 1937, he led the league in victories, earned run average, and strikeouts. He also led the league in strikeouts in 1933. Gomez won 189 regular season games for the Yankees. He had a record of 6 wins and no losses in 5 World Series, the most victories without a loss in World Series history. He also was the winning pitcher in three all-star games, a record.
Vernon Louis Gomez was born in Rodeo, California. He began his baseball career in the minor leagues in 1928. The Yankees purchased his contract in 1929. Throughout his major league career, Gomez was known for his colorful personality and often zany behavior. Gomez suffered from arm trouble in his later playing years. He retired in 1943 after pitching in one game for the Washington Senators. He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972.
