Danny MacFayden

Who was Danny MacFayden?

Daniel Knowles MacFayden was an American starting and relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. From 1926 through 1943, he played for the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, Boston Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates and Washington Senators. In a 17-season career, he posted a 132–159 record with 797 strikeouts and a 3.96 earned run average in 2706.0 innings pitched. His best season was 1936, when he earned 17 victories with 86 strikeouts and a 2.87 ERA, all career bests.

He batted and pitched right-handed. His money pitch was a side-arm curve ball.

MacFayden's serious demeanor won him the nickname "Deacon Danny", though New York World-Telegram sportswriter Dan Daniel, a harsh critic of his play, called him "Dismal Danny" when he was with the Yankees.