1976 Topps #87 - Tom Burgmeier

• Tom Burgmeier was a reliever for five teams from 1968-1984. He appeared in 745 games and started only three of them. He had a lifetime record of 79-55 with a 3.23 ERA and 102 saves.

• Burgmeier pitched for quite a while (1962-1967) in the minors before finally getting his start with the California Angels in 1968. He appeared in 56 games that year, then was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the expansion draft.

• Tom pitched for the Royals from 1969-1973, with stints in the minors in 1970 and 1973. His best year for KC was 1971 (9-7, 1.73, 17 saves). He was traded to the Twins after the '73 season for a minor leaguer.

• He pitched for Minnesota from 1974-1977. Tom had a nice year in 1976 (8-1, 2.50 ERA), but fell off in 1977 (6-4, 5.09). 1977 was his "walk year" -- not the best time to have an off season.

• Tom signed with the Boston Red Sox as a free agent in 1978 and pitched for them through the 1982 season. His best year was 1980. He was 5-4 with a 2.00 ERA and 24 saves. Burgmeier was named to the AL All Star team that year.

• After the 1982 season Burgmeier signed with the Oakland A's as a free agent and finished his career with them in 1984. From 1979-1984, Tom's highest ERA was 2.87.

• Tom is currently the pitching coach for the Omaha Royals.