Carl Erskine, a legendary pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers, passed away at the age of 97. Erskine, who pitched two no-hitters and was a 20-game winner in 1953, died at Community Hospital Anderson in Anderson, Indiana. He spent his entire major league career with the Dodgers from 1948-59, contributing to their five National League pennants.
Erskine's standout season was in 1953 when he went 20-6 and led the National League. He set a World Series record by striking out 14 batters in a single game, a record that stood until 1963. Erskine was part of the celebrated Brooklyn Dodgers teams of the 1950s and appeared in five World Series.
Erskine, born in Anderson, Indiana, began his baseball journey at a young age and was scouted by the Dodgers after serving in the Navy during World War II. He made his major league debut in 1948 and became a key member of the Dodgers' starting rotation alongside notable teammates like Roy Campanella and Jackie Robinson.
Erskine's legacy extended beyond the baseball field as he championed causes for people with developmental disabilities, inspired by his son Jimmy who had Down syndrome. He authored books and was actively involved with Special Olympics in Indiana.
Erskine's contributions to baseball and his community were recognized with honors such as a bronze statue in Anderson and having a street named after him in Brooklyn. He is survived by his wife Betty, sons Danny and Gary, and daughter Susan.
