1976 Topps #312 - Don Carrithers

• Don Carrithers was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 1967. He pitched in the minors from 1967-1970 (and parts of several seasons after that). The 20-year-old Carrithers debuted in the majors on August 1, 1970. He was 2-1 with a 7.36 ERA in 11 games (2 starts) for the Giants in 1970.

• Carrithers started the 1971 season in AAA Phoenix and was recalled in late June. Don was 4-3 with one save and a 4.03 ERA in 22 games (12 starts). In the 1971 NLCS Carrithers was roughed up in his only appearance. In the top of the 7th inning of game 2, Don allowed a double and two singles before being removed. Ron Bryant came in and allowed Don's runners to score. Don's linescore reads 0.0 IP with 3 hits and 3 earned runs.

• In 1972 Carrithers was 4-8 with a 5.80 ERA in 25 games (14 starts). Don was 1-2 with a 4.81 ERA in 25 games (3 starts) in 1973. There aren't any significant gaps in Don's use in 1972, but there are a couple of 2-3 week gaps in 1973. Don may have been battling injuries, or he may have just been the last guy on the staff for the Giants in those two years.

• During spring training in 1974 Carrithers was traded to the Montreal Expos for John Boccabella. The Expos sent Don to AAA Denver to start the season and recalled him in early July. Carrithers was 5-2 with a 3.00 ERA in 22 games (3 starts) for the Expos in '74.

• Don was in the minors during April and May of 1975. After his recall, Carrithers had what probably was his best season. He was 5-3 with a 3.30 ERA in 19 games (14 starts). Carrithers saw the most action of his major league career in 1976. He was 6-12 with a 4.43 ERA in 34 games (19 starts).

• Right before the beginning of the 1977 season Carrithers was purchased by the Minnesota Twins. Don was injured in a car accident and wasn't able to see much action. He pitched twice in April then didn't pitch again until late July. He pitched twice in July, once in August, and twice in September. In his seven appearances Carrithers was 0-1 with a 6.91 ERA. He was released during spring training in 1978 and signed with the Giants. Don was in Phoenix in 1978 and 1979 but didn't get back to the majors.

• After his playing career Carrithers worked as a salesman for a roofing business.

• Liked to face: Leron Lee (.000 in 10 AB); Dave Cash (.071 in 14 AB); Steve Garvey (.158 in 19 AB)
• Hated to face: Al Oliver (.588 in 17 AB); Tommy Helms (.500 in 20 AB); Cesar Geronimo (.421 in 19 AB)