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Names/Gaylord/Gaylord Perry
AthleteAmerican1938 – present

Gaylord Perry

Hall of Fame baseball pitcher, 314 career wins, Cy Young Award winner

Biography

Gaylord Jackson Perry (September 15, 1938 – present) is an American former professional baseball pitcher widely considered one of the greatest pitchers in Major League Baseball history. Over his 22-year career spanning from 1962 to 1983, Perry compiled 314 wins, 3,534 strikeouts, and 53 shutouts, establishing himself as a dominant force on the mound. He played for eight different teams, including the Cleveland Indians, San Francisco Giants, Texas Rangers, and Atlanta Braves, earning five All-Star selections and two Cy Young Awards. Perry became legendary for his alleged use of the spitball, a pitch that was officially banned in baseball, which created an aura of mystery and intimidation around his performances. His autobiography, 'Me and the Spitter,' humorously detailed his pitching philosophy and competitive mindset. Perry was known for his exceptional longevity, maintaining excellence into his mid-40s, and his meticulous preparation and psychological tactics on the pitcher's mound. He finished his career with remarkable consistency and durability, never missing a season due to injury. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991, Perry remains one of only 17 pitchers to win 300 or more games in MLB history.

The Name Gaylord

Gaylord Perry's fame as one of baseball's greatest pitchers helped maintain this distinctive name in American sports culture, though the name became less common for newborns as cultural attitudes toward the word 'gay' shifted throughout the late 20th century.

Other Famous Gaylords
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Gaylord Nelson

U.S. Senator, founder of Earth Day, environmental movement pioneer

Political Leader
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Gaylord Hauser

Nutritionist, health author, wellness pioneer, 'Look Younger, Live Longer'

Notable Person
Quick Facts
Category

Athlete

Nationality

American

Born

1938

Thinking about the name

Gaylord

French origin

“A substantial name derived from Old French 'gaillard,' meaning 'merry' or 'jolly nobleman,' Gaylord combines the root with the Anglo-Norman suffix '-lord,' suggesting nobility and authority. Popular in the early-to-mid 20th century, it carries both jovial warmth and formal dignity. The name has a vintage, confident character.”