Bernie Boland

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Bernard Anthony Boland (January 21, 1892 – September 12, 1973) was a Major League Baseball pitcher for the Detroit Tigers and St. Louis Browns.

Born in Rochester, New York, Boland made his major league debut in 1915 with the Detroit Tigers. Boland had a nice rookie season, going 13-7 with a 3.11 ERA. During his first season in the bigs, Boland came within one batter of throwing a no hitter. On August 6, Boland retired the first 26 Cleveland batters he faced , only to give up a hit to Ben Paschal. Pashcal's hit would be his first and only hit of the season. Boland and the Tigers went on to win the game 3-1. The Tigers would finish second in the American League this season, finishing only 2 1/2 games behind the pennant winner.

The 1917 season is regarded as Boland best year. Boland went 16-11 on the season with a 2.68 ERA.

After breaking his arm in the off season and as a result of being forced to pitch before his arm could fully heal, Boland had a dismal 1920, going 0-2 in only 4 games. The 1921 was Boland last, going 1-4 for the St. Louis Browns. Bernie Boland finished his career with a record of 68-53 and a 3.25 ERA.

During his time as a player, Boland played with and against some of baseball most notable figures. Ty Cobb was Boland's teammate for his six year tenure with the Tigers. According to some accounts from players and family, Boland and Cobb were often at odds, as they came from different background and carried very different beliefs. Bernie Boland also played against Babe Ruth, who was a member of the league-rival New York Yankees. Using his sharp breaking curve, Boland had the distinction of striking out Ruth three times in one game.

Bernie Boland died in Detroit, Michigan, on September 12, 1973 at the age of 81.