Balls painted by catcher Stan Lopata for games started by pitcher Curt Simmons. Yes, 2010 was the year of the pitcher. Pitching dominated in both leagues and offense was down. Sadly, the baseball season started with the death of Robin Roberts, the great Phillie right-hander and lifelong student of the game. Aside from Roberts' many remarkable accomplishments, he also had a collection of hand-painted baseballs for games he started. Of course with Roberts that pretty much meant games that he also finished. Then in December, Bob Feller, said to be the hardest thrower ever, died. The year of the pitcher and the passing of giants.
