All-Time Indians: Bob Rhoads

Bob Rhoads came to the Blues in 1903 after a couple seasons with the Orphans and Cardinals and helped form one of the best starting rotations in Cleveland history. In his first season in 1904, Rhoads was the worst pitcher of the six pitchers who started at least 15 games, posting an ERA of 2.88. In 1905 the rotation came into it's own with Addie Joss at the lead, followed by Earl Moore, Rhoads and Otto Hess bringing up the back. A few starters fell out of the rotation from year to year, but they were always replaced by an equal or greater talent with Bill Bernhard coming up in 1906 and Glenn Liebhardt in 1907. Every rotation that Rhoads was part of until his retirement in 1909 was exemplary and they continue to hold many single season marks. Rhoads himself holds top ten marks in single season ERA for his 1906 and 1908 seasons.

Despite a short career by Indians pitching standards, Rhoads still ranks among the best Indians starters ever. His 2.39 career ERA ranks third all time among Indians pitchers and he also ranks in the top ten in shut outs and innings per game. His 15 home runs allowed during his 185 games are the least allowed by any Indians pitcher with more than 1,200 innings pitched. Of pitchers with more than 900 innings pitched, only fellow dead-ball era pitchers Bill Bernhard and Willie Mitchell allowed less career home runs.

While the Indians/Blues/Naps weren't able to garner much success during their formative years, these teams set the stage for the Indians first World Series in 1920. Bob Rhoads died in 1967.