Still, somehow, a no-hitter

Joe Cowley of the Chicago White Sox picks up the 33rd and final victory of his brief and bizarre five-year career in the majors with a no-hitter 39 years ago today against the Angels in Anaheim.

The no-hitter arguably is the ugliest of its kind as Cowley walks seven batters and gives up a sacrifice fly to future Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson during a 7-1 victory before a Friday night crowd of 28,647 at Anaheim Stadium.

Within a year, Cowley is traded to Philadelphia for outfielder Gary Redus, forgets how to throw strikes – although that ability already is in question – loses all four of his decisions with the Phillies, and finishes out both the 1987 season and his career in the minors.

All before his 30th birthday.

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