Lynn McGlothen (July 3, 1950 – August 29, 1984) was an American professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1972 to 1980. He appeared for the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, Texas Rangers, and New York Mets. McGlothen was selected to the National League All‑Star team in 1975.
Early life and education
McGlothen was born in Monroe, Louisiana. He attended Grambling State University, where he played college baseball before being signed by the Chicago Cubs as an amateur free agent in 1969.
Professional career
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Chicago Cubs (1972–1974) – McGlothen made his MLB debut on September 12, 1972. Over three seasons with Chicago, he developed as a starter, posting a 4‑5 record with a 4.71 earned run average (ERA) in 1974.
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St. Louis Cardinals (1975–1977) – In December 1974, the Cubs traded McGlothen to the Cardinals in exchange for veteran pitcher Jim Kaat. McGlothen’s most productive season came in 1975, when he posted a 15‑9 record with a 2.70 ERA, earning a berth on the National League All‑Star roster. He continued as a regular starter for St. Louis through the 1977 season.
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San Francisco Giants (1977–1978) – McGlothen was traded to the Giants during the 1977 season. He compiled a combined 12‑10 record over two seasons with the Giants, maintaining an ERA near 3.60.
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Texas Rangers (1979) – He joined the Rangers for part of the 1979 campaign, appearing both as a starter and reliever.
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New York Mets (1979–1980) – McGlothen finished his major‑league career with the Mets, making his final MLB appearance on September 27, 1980.
Career statistics
- Win–loss record: 86–71
- Earned run average: 3.98
- Strikeouts: 758
- Games pitched: 220 (190 starts)
Later life and death
After retiring from professional baseball, McGlothen returned to Louisiana. He died of a heart attack while jogging on August 29, 1984, at the age of 34.
Legacy
McGlothen is remembered for his strong 1975 season and his role as a reliable mid‑rotation starter during the 1970s. His career totals place him among the more successful pitchers of his era who did not achieve long‑term Hall of Fame consideration.