Bryant adopted a huge stuffed bear (that he called "Bear Bryant") as his lucky charm
in 1972. It seemed to turn his fortunes around. From 7-10 in '71, his record improved
to 14-7. In 1973 he led the NL in victories, compiling a 24-12 mark for the Giants.
Unfortunately, a diving-board accident stemming from an alcohol problem caused him
a serious back injury in the spring of 1974. He slumped to 3-15, was traded to the
Cardinals, and was cut after 10 games.
(MC)
FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY
»May 16, 1972:
In the Reds 4–3 win over the Giants, Pete Rose knocks in the winning run on an attempted intentional walk. On a 3–0 count, Giants pitcher Ron Bryant comes close to the plate with ball four and Rose drives it on the ground and reaches base on an error.
»August 26, 1972:
At Wrigley Field, Ron Santo records his 2,000th career hit, a 3-run home run off Ron Bryant. Santo's hit, driving in his 1,200th run, is the margin of victory as the Cub top the Giants, 10–9.
»March 15, 1974: Giants 24-game winner Ron Bryant is injured in a swimming pool accident in Yuma, AZ. His record will drop to 3-15 and he will never again be a consistent winner.
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