Don Cardwell spent 14 years in the National League, playing for a total of 5 teams. Don was first signed as an amateur free agent by the Phillies in 1957. Playing most of his career as a spot starter, he was traded at the start of the 1960 season to the Cubs, putting together a 30-44 record over 3 years. In 1962, he was traded to the Cardinals, but never pitched a game for St. Louis as he was sent packing to the Pirates a month later for Dick Groat.
In Pittsburgh, Cardwell went 33-32 over 4 seasons before a trade to the Mets. His was still a spot starter in his first 2 years with the Mets, but broke in as a member of the 1969 Champions rotation, going 8-10 in the regular season. However, Don only pitched one inning of relief in the Fall Classic. Cardwell's last team was the Atlanta Braves, where he was traded in the middle of the 1970 season. Over his 14 seasons, Don finished with a 102-138 record. In 2008, Don passed away from complications of Pick's Disease, a neurological illness that also claimed Ted Darling, the original radio and television voice of the Buffalo Sabers, and Colleen Howe, wife of hockey legend Gordie Howe.
Claim to fame: Cardwell was the first player to throw a no-hitter on his first start with his new team after being traded. Don was sent to the Cubs on May 13, 1960. On May 15, Cardwell faced 28 Cardinal batters, walking one batter in the first inning.
Comic answer: 49 (in 1922) Cubs-26 Phils-23
Card condition: The corners are in very good condition. There are a few scratches on the face of the card and the centering is poor. The back has a small amount of dirt.
