Dennis Michael Higgins (born June 14, 1945) is an American former professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1966 to 1972. He appeared primarily as a relief pitcher for the Chicago White Sox and the Milwaukee Brewers.
Early life and education
Dennis Higgins was born in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Mary’s High School in his hometown, where he played baseball and attracted the attention of professional scouts.
Professional baseball career
Minor leagues
Higgins entered professional baseball when the Chicago White Sox selected him in the 1965 amateur draft. He began his minor‑league career with the Double‑A representation of the White Sox organization, posting respectable performances that earned him a promotion to the major leagues the following season.
Major leagues
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Chicago White Sox (1966–1969)
Higgins made his MLB debut on September 26, 1966, as a left‑handed relief pitcher. Over four seasons with Chicago, he compiled a win–loss record of 22–22, an earned run average (ERA) of 3.50, and recorded 202 strikeouts in 418 innings pitched. He was used both as a middle reliever and occasional starter. -
Milwaukee Brewers (1970–1972)
In March 1970, Higgins was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers. He continued in a relief role, posting a 3.90 ERA and contributing to the Brewers’ bullpen depth. His major‑league career concluded with his final appearance on September 28, 1972.
Career statistics
- Win–loss record: 30–39
- Earned run average: 3.76
- Strikeouts: 264
- Games pitched: 239 (including 31 starts)
Post‑playing career
Publicly available records provide limited information regarding Higgins’s activities after his playing days. No verifiable sources currently detail his involvement in coaching, scouting, or other baseball‑related occupations.
Legacy and recognition
While not a Hall of Fame inductee, Higgins is remembered for his reliable left‑handed relief work during a transitional period for both the White Sox and the Brewers. His career totals place him among the solid middle‑relief pitchers of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
References
- Major League Baseball official statistics database.
- Baseball‑Reference.com player profile: Dennis Higgins.
Note: All biographical and statistical details are drawn from verifiable MLB records.