On This Date in 1974

Exactly 40 years ago today at the second Busch Stadium, Bob Gibson became just the second pitcher ever to reach 3000 strikeouts. His historic batter was Reds centerfielder Cesar Geronimo -- who, ironically would also be Nolan Ryan's 3000th strikeout victim! Gibson worked the first seven innings but didn't figure in the decision -- the Reds won the game 6 - 4 in 12 innings.
One of the most intimidating pitchers ever, I saw Gibson dozens of times on TV, and a few in person. But this photo, taken in March 2005 when he was a spring training coach, is the only image of him I've shot.
Happy anniversary, Bob Gibson!

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