RIP - Bobby Bolin

 

Bobby Bolin, who pitched for the Giants all through the 1960s and later for the Red Sox, passed away on June 2, 2023 at age 84.

Bolin debuted with the Giants in April 1961. After working out of the bullpen for his first 2 seasons, he was a swing man from 1963-69, except for 1966, when he started 34 of his 36 games. 

 

His best year was 1965, when he posted a 14-6 record. In 1968, his 1.99 ERA was 2nd best in the NL, behind only Bob Gibson's 1.12 ERA. 

 

He was traded to the Brewers in December 1969. (On the same day, the Giants' bizarro front office traded Bolin for Dick Simpson and Steve Whitaker, and also traded Ray Sadecki and Dave Marshall to the Mets for Jim Gosger and Bob Heise!) 

 

Bolin was traded to the Red Sox in September 1970, and was used strictly in relief while with Boston (thru the 1973 season). After leading the entire Red Sox' staff in appearances (39) and saves (15), he was released the following March. 

 

New York Post obituary