All-Time Indians: Vean Gregg

Vean Gregg came up faster than just about any other pitcher in team history, recording the greatest rookie season in Indians history. Gregg became the Indians ace in just his first season in 1911 and won 23 of his 26 starts. His 1.81 ERA that season lead the American League and ranks among the top ten best ERA seasons in Indians history. His WHIP also lead the league that season. He never replicated that amazing season, but he did continue on a torrid pace, going 20-13 each of the next two seasons with an ERA under 2.60.

In 1914, Gregg's ERA jumped above 3.00 for the first time in his short career and the Indians decided that had enough of him, trading him to Boston for Fritz Coumbe and two other minor players. The Red Sox eventually converted Gregg to a reliever and he was never the same pitcher as he was with the Naps. Gregg was kept out of the Majors in 1917, and from 1919 through 1924, playing one final season in 1925 at the age of 40 with the Washington Senators. 

Despite his very short career, Gregg is still an important part in Indians history, ranking in the top five in Indians history in ERA and winning percent. He also should be considered one of the best aces in Indians history as his three years at the top of the Cleveland staff are comparable to any other aces best three years in team history. Vean Gregg died in 1964 at the age of 79.