1978 Topps Baseball #306 - Joe Niekro

• Joe Niekro became a full-time starter in 1978. He was mostly a reliever from 1971-1977. Niekro would be a starting pitcher for the rest of his career (he retired in 1988).
• The 33-year-old Niekro was the oldest pitcher on the Houston staff. His 14 victories was second on the team to J.R. Richard's 18 wins.
• 1978 Stats: 14-14, 3.86 ERA in 35 games (29 starts)
• 1978 Highlights:
• April 18 - Allowed four hits in a complete game 5-1 victory over the San Diego Padres. Niekro also was 2 for 3 with two RBI and two runs scored in the game.
• July 17 - Earned the victory in a complete game 11-inning game against the Philadelphia Phillies. Niekro allowed five hits and one run in the 2-1 victory. Niekro scored a run as well.
• July 26 - Pitched a 4-hit shutout against the Montreal Expos.