Brooklyn fans were in disbelief when the Dodgers picked up ex-Giant castaway 39 year old Sal Maglie in May of 1956. He was the number one nemesis of the Dodgers during his earlier career with the cross-town Giants. Sal’s nickname “the Barber” was well earned. He could throw inside better than anyone. The fights that ensued were numerous. In particular, his reputation grew from his days throwing for the Giants against their rival Dodgers. Whether it was Jackie Robinson or any of their well-known hitters, he could be counted on to give them a close shave. Not only did he pitch to his nickname, but his unshaven appearance also promoted it. In a ten year career, Sal averaged 15 wins and a 3.15 ERA.
But Dodger manager, Walter Alston, must have sensed there was still something left in the old man’s arm because there would not have been a pennant without Maglie ‘s 13 wins, including a no hitter against the Phils in the last week of the season to help clinch the title. He was the winning pitcher in Game 1 of the Series before losing Game 5 to Don Larsen’s perfect Game 5.