Bo Belinsky's Final Curtain

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - Bo Belinsky died today in baseball (2001). He was a media sensation for a fleeting moment in the early 1960's as a rising star on the California Angels pitching staff, and a glib, flamboyant Hollywood playboy.

Belinsky debuted in April 1962 and pitched the California Angels' first no hitter a month later. He also had a much publicized romance with movie star Mamie Van Doren, and dated Ann Margaret, Connie Stevens and Tina Louise. Sportswriters and gossip columnists loved Belinsky's quotes, such as, "If I'd known I was gonna pitch a no-hitter today, I would have gotten a haircut."

Belinsky's pitching career took off fast, going 7-1 to start his rookie season, including the May 2nd no-hitter against the Baltimore Orioles. But Belinsky faded just as quickly, finishing the '62 season 3-10. His career was derailed by inconsistency, and his act grew tiresome. He only had one winning season when he went 9-8 in 1964. His major league career ended in 1970 with an overall record of 28-51. His hard-drinking playboy lifestyle continued for a few years until he moved to Las Vegas and, of all things, became born again.

Belinsky had bouts with bladder cancer, and died of heart attack in his Las Vegas home at the age of 64.

CONTRIBUTING SOURCE:
Bo Belinsky