Bartolo Colon has become a cult figure of sorts in recent years, the 45-year-old having morphed into a solid journeyman who earned the nickname "Big Sexy."
But what might get lost in all the Twitter jokes with Colon is this: he's had a really, really good career.
On Tuesday night, Colon added to his lengthy resume by picking up his 246th career win, passing Dennis Martinez for most victories by a pitcher born in Latin America in MLB history.
Colon had dropped his last five decisions, but got his first win since June 30 to set the record as the Texas Rangers — his 11th MLB team — beat the Seattle Mariners, 11-4.
“It was a long journey, but it finally came and it feels good,” Colon said through an interpreter.
The native of the Dominican Republic went 7 innings, striking out one and walking none while giving up eight hits.
Big Sexy even flashed the glove for a nice out on his record-setting night.
“True to I think the competitor in him, once we got the lead, you could see just the extra little gear that he put it into to get himself through those innings,” Rangers manager Jeff Banister said.
"It took a while to get it, but I’m proud of him,” said teammate Adrian Beltre.
Colon broke into MLB in 1997 and spent parts of six seasons with the Cleveland Indians before he began to bounce around. He's a four-time All-Star who won the 2005 AL Cy Young while with the Angels.
Contributing: Associated Press
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