Fond of throwing the inside fastball, Owens was a minor league strikeout and walk
leader who discovered control while in the military during 1957 and 1958. He had
his best season as a rookie in 1959, going 12-12 for the Phillies. Known as a reveler
as a young player, he slumped, was traded, and was demoted before straightening out
and becoming a top Houston reliever from 1964 through 1966. After arm trouble ended
his career, he served as the Astro's pitching coach from 1967 to 1972.
(MC)
Jim Owens
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