Lawrence "Larry" Cheney (November 2, 1886 – January 6, 1969) was an American professional baseball pitcher who played nine seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1911 to 1919. A right-handed pitcher known for his durability and control, Cheney played for the [[Chicago Cubs]], [[Brooklyn Robins]] (now the Los Angeles Dodgers), [[Boston Braves]] (now the Atlanta Braves), and [[Philadelphia Phillies]]. He is primarily remembered for his consecutive seasons leading the National League in innings pitched and for throwing a no-hitter in 1912.
Early Life and Career Born in Belleville, Kansas, Cheney began his professional baseball career in the minor leagues. He spent several years honing his skills with various teams before making his Major League debut.
Major League Career Cheney's MLB career commenced in 1911 with the Chicago Cubs. He quickly established himself as a reliable and effective starting pitcher. His most successful seasons were with the Cubs:
- 1912: Cheney had a career-defining year, compiling a record of 26 wins against 10 losses with a 2.72 [[earned run average]] (ERA). He led the National League with 362.1 innings pitched. A highlight of this season occurred on September 17, 1912, when he pitched a [[no-hitter]] against the formidable [[New York Giants]] in a 7–0 victory.
- 1913: He continued his strong performance, winning 21 games against 18 losses with a 2.43 ERA, and once again led the league in innings pitched with 364.0.
In 1915, Cheney was traded to the Brooklyn Robins. He continued to be a workhorse for the Robins before moving to the Boston Braves in 1917 and concluding his MLB career with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1919.
Throughout his nine-season career, Cheney accumulated 116 wins and 140 losses, with a career ERA of 2.76. He pitched 1690.1 innings, striking out 856 batters. His consistent ability to pitch deep into games was a hallmark of his career, particularly during the [[Dead-ball era]].
Later Life and Death After his playing career, Cheney remained involved in baseball for a period, serving as a scout and minor league coach. He also reportedly worked for the railroad industry. Larry Cheney died on January 6, 1969, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the age of 82.