Orel Hershiser has joined the DBL’s 200-win club. The veteran right-hander reached the milestone on September 18, 1996, earning the victory for the Detroit Tigers and solidifying his place among the most durable and consistent pitchers of his generation.
Now in his 14th DBL season, Hershiser’s career has been defined by command, competitiveness, and an unrelenting work ethic. From his early years in Milwaukee to his more recent stints in Colorado and Detroit, he has built a legacy of excellence on the mound.
Career Highlights to Date:
- 444 career starts
- 200 wins, 153 losses
- 3,079 innings pitched
- 2,161 strikeouts, 896 walks
- 73 complete games, 12 shutouts
- Career ERA of 4.12 and FIP of 4.23
- Career WHIP of 1.21 and WAR of 44.5
- ERA+ of 107
- Four 18+ win seasons, including a 21-win campaign in 1983
- Six 200+ inning seasons
Career Year-by-Year Summary:
1983 (Milwaukee): Breakout year with 21 wins and a 3.29 ERA, establishing himself as a front-line starter.
1984–1986: Averaged 17 wins and over 230 innings per season, helping anchor the Milwaukee rotation.
1987–1988 (Pittsburgh/Milwaukee): Continued his success with 17 wins in 1987 and over 220 innings again in 1988.
1989–1992 (Milwaukee): Reliable veteran presence, consistently logging 200+ innings.
1993–1995 (Colorado): Adapted to the hitter-friendly environment, winning 37 games across three seasons.
1996 (Detroit): Reached the 200-win milestone in his first year with the Tigers.
Across fourteen seasons, Hershiser’s steadiness and command have made him a respected figure throughout the league. His 200th win stands as a testament to both endurance and excellence.
Congratulations to Orel Hershiser on recording his 200th career victory.