The 1972 California Angels, managed by Del Rice, finished 75–80 and placed fifth in the AL West. The season was highlighted by the arrival of Nolan Ryan, who instantly transformed the pitching staff with 19 wins, a club-record 329 strikeouts, and his first no-hit stuff dominance in Anaheim. Vada Pinson and Ken Berry provided steady offense, but overall run production lagged. Strong pitching from Ryan, Clyde Wright, and Andy Messersmith kept the Angels competitive, yet inconsistent hitting ultimately kept them from contending.
21 Ballpoint signatures (averaging 8/10 in strength) on this creamy off-white Regulation League baseball are highlighted by:
NOLAN RYAN, Don Rose (his only year with the team), Andy Kosco, Mel Queen, Eddie Fisher, Lloyd Allen, Roger Repoz, Ken Berry, Steve Barber, Sandy Alomar, Lee Stanton, Rick Clark, Bobby Winkles, Tom Morgan, Mickey Rivers, Del Rice (D. 1983) (manager), and Ken McMullen
