Click on the video to see SportsCenter Highlights of Kerry Wood's Major League record of 20 strikeouts against the Houston Astros.
A much-hyped prospect in the minor leagues, Kerry Wood made his MLB debut on April 12, 1998. He wasted no time showing the world his talent when - in only his fifth career start on May 6, 1998 - he threw a one-hit, no walk, 20-strikeout shutout against the Houston Astros, tying the record for strikeouts in a 9-inning National League game and breaking Bill Gullickson's single-game rookie record of 18 strikeouts in 1980.
Kerry Wood finished the 1998 season with a 13-6 record, and despite missing the last month of the season with elbow soreness easily won the National League Rookie of the Year award. Wood pitched one game in the playoffs against the Atlanta Braves, but suffered the loss. That would be his last appearance in a Cubs uniform for more than a year.
What a Difference Ten Years Makes! Kerry Wood has gone from Rookie Of The Year Starter to closer for the Cubs. Wood has three blown saves so far this season, but Lou Pinella will stick with Wood as Closer. That video of Wood's pitching performance ten years ago today was amazing.
1998 was an amazing year for baseball. Not just in the McGwire-Sosa Homeun Chase, but the young Fireballing Texan who looked like a young Nolan Ryan, Kerry Wood.
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