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The Roger Nelson Comeback

I’ve written about former Royal pitcher Roger Nelson on several occasions. For some reason, I’ve been fascinated with his career arc. He was originally signed by the Chicago White Sox in 1963. His minor league career with the Sox gave…

By Bradford Lee · Royals Review

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 2:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Bradford Lee chronicles the career of pitcher Roger Nelson, highlighting his historic 1972 season and 1976 Royals comeback.
Nelson set a still-standing Royals franchise record by throwing six shutouts during the 1972 season.
Kansas City traded Nelson to the Cincinnati Reds in the 1972 offseason in a deal that acquired Hal McRae.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Bradford Lee reflects on the career of former Kansas City Royals pitcher Roger Nelson, focusing on his dominant 1972 campaign and subsequent 1976 comeback. Nelson overcame arm injuries to record 10 complete games and six shutouts in 1972, establishing single-season franchise records that still stand today before being traded to Cincinnati.

After working as a UPS driver, Nelson returned to the Royals in 1976 and pitched effectively in September. However, a mugging in Oakland left him with two sprained wrists, prematurely ending his season and his final major league appearance.

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The Roger Nelson Comeback

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