Lyle was first signed as an amateur free agent by the Baltimore Orioles on June 17, 1964; however, he never played a game for the Orioles. On November 30 of the same year, he was drafted by the Boston Red Sox from the Orioles. He first joined the Red Sox as a player on July 4, 1967, during their “Impossible Dream” season. By the 1969 season, he would emerge as the Red Sox’ top reliever. On March 22, 1972, he was traded to the New York Yankees. Lyle became the Yankees’ bullpen ace, and established himself as one of the best relief pitchers of the 1970s, helping the Yankees to three straight pennants from 1976-1978 and winning the World Series the last two years. In 1972, he saved 35 games, an American League record at the time, and a major league record for left-handers. In 1972, Lyle also became the first southpaw to collect 100 saves in the American League. He also finished 3rd in the 1972 MVP voting. He again led the league in saves in 1976, and in 1977 became the first AL reliever ever to win the Cy Young Award. He was named an American League All-Star in 1973, 1976 and 1977. In 1976, he broke Hoyt Wilhelm’s American League record of 154 career saves, and the following year eclipsed Perranoski’s major league mark for left-handers of 179 career saves. Through 1977, Lyle had compiled 201 career saves, and was within range of Wilhelm’s career big-league record of 227.

**Sparky Lyle Speaker**

In 1998, he became the manager of the Somerset Patriots, a minor league team based in Bridgewater, New Jersey. He managed the team to Atlantic League pennants in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2008. He remains the only manager in club history. Having accomplished so much in the game of baseball, as a player and coach, Sparky Lyle can speak to the dedication and hard work it takes to be a winner. A Sparky Lyle appearance will enhance any event, as his presence reflects the success and credibility of your own company.

**Sparky Lyle Appearance**

A Sparky Lyle appearance at your event or function is sure to impress sports fans and non-sports fans alike. PGS can help secure a Sparky Lyle appearance.

**Sparky Lyle Endorsement**

Sparky Lyle’s monumental Hall of Fame career has made him an icon of success in major league baseball. A Sparky Lyle appearance at your function could serve as a tribute to the achievement that your company has and strives for.