Dave LaRoche

In the 1970s and early 1980s, Dave LaRoche was a top lefthanded relief pitcher for six major league teams.  LaRoche was drafted by the California Angels in the fifth round of the 1967 draft and made his debut for the Angels in 1970.

Following trades to the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs, LaRoche landed in Cleveland, where he posted back-to-back outstanding seasons for the Indians.  In 1975, he appeared in 61 games and had an earned run average of 2.19.  The following season, LaRoche also pitched in 61 games, had an ERA of 2.24 and was named to his first all-star game.

In 1977, LaRoche was dealt back to California and made his second all-star team, retiring Pete Rose to pitch a scoreless inning.  In 1978, LaRoche garnered Most Valuable Player votes as he went 10-9 with a 2.82 ERA in 59 appearances.

In 1981, LaRoche joined the New York Yankees and became a fan favorite with his “LaLob” pitch that resembled a slow-pitch softball.  He retired from playing following the 1983 season.  He had 65 wins.

LaRoche helped his brother-in-law build and coach the Fort Scott baseball program.  From 1997-2002, he coached Fort Scott Community College.

All three of his sons played professional baseball, with Andy and Adam reaching the major leagues.