1982 Profile: Dave LaRoche

"Diversity, adaptability, and success describe this Yankee fireman.
Dave began his career with California in 1968 and returned to the Angels in 1977, while stopping at Minnesota, Chicago (NL) and Cleveland. He joined the Yanks in 1981 and his presence represented the only southpaw in last year's bullpen.
His career success is not equalled by many. He is third among active relievers in the American League with 126 total saves, behind only Rollie Fingers and teammate Rich Gossage. His finest season was with the Angels in 1978, appearing in 59 games, posting a 10-9 mark with a 2.82 ERA and a club record 25 saves; he was runner-up to Gossage for Rolaids Relief Man of the Year.
Dave is a relief pitcher with his own style, no matter what the assignment is. Whether in Columbus, as a player-coach or in New York, Dave contributes to the success of the Yankee organization."

-The New York Yankees Official 1982 Yearbook

"Released by the Angels in 1981 following spring training, LaRoche was signed by the Yankees and was their only left-hander in the bullpen. He allowed only one run in his first 15.1 innings pitched, and in the first half was 3-0 with a 0.68 ERA. He made one start, filling in for Tommy John in Detroit on August 15.
Dave entertained Yankee fans and frustrated hitters with his 'LaLob' pitch. On August 21 at the Stadium, he struck out Willie Wilson with LaLob for a wild pitch that allowed Wilson to reach first base. He struck out Gorman Thomas on September 9 with LaLob and Thomas smashed his batting helmet in frustration.
Dave was originally signed by the Angels as an outfielder in 1967 but was moved to the pitcher's mound during 1968 due to injuries on the Quad Cities staff. In three minor league seasons as an outfielder, he batted .224 with eight home runs and 55 RBIs in 136 games. In 1975 Dave was the Indians' Man of the Year, tying Tom Buskey's club record of 17 saves. He set the club record with 21 the following season. He's eighth on the all-time saves list with 126 (since the new save rule in 1969).
LaRoche grew up in Southern California where he was a member of the Connie Mack National Baseball Championship team in 1966, representing Torrance and Gardena. An all-around athlete, he was all-league three times in baseball, twice in basketball and once in football at West Torrance High. He was MVP in both baseball and basketball his senior year."

-1982 New York Yankees Media Guide