“A blazing fastball, used 90 percent of the time, made Hrabosky one of the most effective relievers of the 1970′s. The southpaw’s nickname, The Mad Hungarian, came from his nationality, Fu Manchu mustache and long hair, and angry stomping to the back of the mound to psych himself up. He was “The Sporting News” NL Fireman of the Year in 1975 with St. Louis (13-3, 1.67 era, 22 saves). When he wasn’t selected to the All-Star team in 1974, St. Louis fans rallied behind him, honoring him with a “We Hlove Hrabosky Hbanner Hday.” Traded in December 1977 to the Royals for reliever Mark Littel, in 1979 he signed a multi-million-dollar contract with the Braves via free agency, but recorded only 7 of his lifetime 97 saves with Atlanta. He is currently a Cardinals broadcaster.”

I liked Hrabosky too, by the way. I don’t know how much of an effect his “act” had on opposing hitters, but it certainly would have kept me from crowding the plate.

Side note: When I was about 12 — maybe 14 — Al Hrabosky was my very favorite player. It wasn’t really the ‘stache, it was his whole persona, including his act on the mound. I dug it.

1 Luis Tiant

2 Carl Pavano

3 Thurman Munson

4 Don Mattingly

5 Reggie Jackson

6 Al “Mad Hungarian” Hrabosky

7 Keith Hernandez

8 Rich “Goose” Gossage

9 Jason Giambi

10 Rollie Fingers

11 Wade Boggs

12 Randy Johnson