Klieman pitched well despite fits of wildness as a part-time starter for Cleveland in 1944-45, but he was gradually forced to the bullpen, and then the minors, by veterans returning from WWII. He came back in 1947 to lead the AL with 17 saves and 58 appearances and posted a 2.60 ERA for the 1948 World Champion Indians. (MC)
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FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY
»August 3, 1948: Before 72,434 in Cleveland, ancient Satchel Paige makes his first start pitching seven innings against the Senators, before being relieved by Eddie Klieman. Paige picks up the win, 5–3, which moves Cleveland (56-38) into a four-way tie for first.
»August 28, 1948:
The Yanks stroll into 2nd-place by edging the Indians, 3–2. Ahead 2–1, Sam Zoldak wilts in the 98 degree weather and Gene Bearden replaces him in the 9th. DiMaggio is hit, and two wild throws brings in Ed Klieman, who finishes the walk to Berra. A Brown sac bunt, and an intentional pass to Rizzuto loads the bases. Mapes walks to force a run and a grounder brings home the winner.
»December 14, 1948: The Indians send Eddie Klieman, Eddie Robinson, and P Joe Haynes, acquired from the White Sox three weeks earlier for C Joe Tipton, to Washington for Early Wynn and Mickey Vernon. Vernon will go back to the Nats in 1950 but Wynn will stay in Cleveland for nine seasons and 163 wins.
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