Ronald Maurice Darling Jr. (born August 19, 1960) is an American former right-handed starting pitcher in Major League Baseball….who played for the New York Mets….as seen in this video herewith….the Montreal Expos….and the Oakland Athletics. During his 13-year career, Darling amassed a 136–116 won-loss record….with 13 shutouts….while amassing 1,590 strikeouts….and a 3.87 ERA….and was picked for the All-Star team in 1985.
Darling had five pitches in his repertoire….including the slider….a curveball….a circle changeup….a splitter…..and a four seam fastball. In the early part of his career….Darling’s weak point was control….as he finished seasons in the top four in base on balls three times….but as his career progressed his control improved considerably. He was considered one of the better fielding pitchers of the time….while winning a Gold Glove Award in 1989…..and he had one of the best pick-off moves among right-handers in the major leagues…..plus, since he was an above-average athlete…. he was sometimes used as a pinch runner. In 1989, he hit home runs in two consecutive starts.
Darling currently works as a color commentator for national baseball coverage on TBS….as well as for the Mets on both SNY and WPIX….as well as co-hosting on the MLB Network.
