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Robin Roberts was a standout pitcher at Michigan State and, during the summers of 1946 and 1947, at Montpelier for the Twin City Trojans. He went 11-8 with a no-hitter in 1946. In 1947, he had a no-hitter and went 18 – 3 with a 2.33 E.R.A. during a 60-game season. Robin credits his coach, Ray Fisher, with teaching him how to pitch.
Robin Roberts was one of the greatest pitchers in the history of Major League Baseball. He won an amazing 286 games during a 19-year career in the majors. He had six straight 20-win seasons, despite playing much of his career on second-division teams.
Robin on his time in Montpelier:
"The Vermont experience was how I got to pro baseball. The scouts noticed me"
"The Governor’s secretary was a baseball fan and she would close down early when I pitched. Not many guys have closed down the Governor's office, I've always been proud of that."
"It was a great experience ... you can't imagine a guy that age having a better summer then we had in Vermont."
Robin took the mound at the Recreation Field for the first time since 1947. It was a rainy night, and nearly 3000 fans came to pay tribute to Robin as he had his number retired, as well as saw his granite plaque and historical site marker for the first time. Robin was greeted on the field by Governor Jim Douglas, who proclaimed the July 21, 2003 Robin Roberts Day in The State of Vermont. The Mountaineers Board and Northern League Veterans also presented Robin with gifts. Robin addressed the fans and threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
It was a pleasure to get to know Robin and Mary Roberts during their four day stay in Montpelier. Robin has agreed to be a Vermont Mountaineers Honorary Board Member and has promised to make one trip each year to a game on his way to Induction Weekend in Cooperstown.
