JR Richard was just scratching the surface

A couple of weeks later, he had that stroke. A healthy 1980 Astros pitching staff would have likely swept the Phillies in the NLCS, and probably defeated the Royals in the World Series.

horrible what happened but dude was incredible

There was nothing better when I was a kid to watch JR go 8 and Sambito clean up the ninth. I loved those teams.

Everyone talked about Nolan Ryan but this guy had a fastball that was unhittable!!! 105 mph

Listen Jack, J.R. Richard threw 100 mph before pitchers had personal trainers, biomechanics labs, or sleeves on their uniforms. His recovery program was sitting in the dugout until it was his turn again.

He was so intimidating on the mound.

He owned the Dodgers.

Big time what if.

Hit and run during an all-star game.

Bad man. Seen him pitch in the Astrodome in late 80s when I was a kid

His slider was absolutely filthy. 94 mph.

JR was an all-time great pitcher, and I am Dodger fan

@shegone03 — Go on. Dig in.

Nice seeing Kenny Reitz at 3rd. Richard was something else!

That windup and follow through is amazing

What could possibly have been

Come on Ken, you are supposed to be a @mlb all-star. 😂

JR was nasty in his prime. Absolutely over powering at times.

absolutely. talk about cut down on his prime.

Very similar to Nolan Ryan with the heater and high leg kick.,

He was awesome

Him and Nolan Ryan as a 1-2 punch might have given Astros at minimum NL pennants in 80 and 81. Then imagine JR teaming with Mike Scott in 86.

Got to see him (live) pitch twice. A truly great Astro!