As the New York Yankees’ Don Larsen faced the Brooklyn Dodgers in the fifth game of the 1956 World Series, he seemed an unlikely candidate to pitch the only perfect game in World Series history. Larsen had been blown out in less than two innings in game two of the series, giving up four walks and one hit. He also had only the fourth best record on the Yankees rotation that year.

Facing a power-packed Dodger team that included three future members of the Hall of Fame. the big right-hander mowed down all 27 batters he faced. Larsen went on to win the series most valuable player award. Following the last pitch, Yankee catcher Yogi Berra jumped into Larsen’s arms, creating one of the most iconic sports pictures in history.

Unfortunately, the game was the highlight of his 15-year major league career. Except for a five-year stint with the Yankees where he compiled a 45-24 won-lost record, Larsen was essentially a journeyman pitcher. Pitching for seven different clubs during his career, he compiled an overall won-lost record of 81-91. During his 1954 season with the Baltimore Orioles, he lost 21 games, and never won more than 11 games in one season.

Following his baseball career, Larsen failed as a sports executive and liquor salesman. However, he did sell his perfect game uniform for $756,000 to finance his grandchildren's education.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org