Former Yankees pitcher Johnny Kucks dead at 81

SADDLE RIVER, N.J., Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Former New York Yankees pitcher Johnny Kucks, who clinched the 1956 World Series against Brooklyn, has died of cancer in New Jersey, his family said. He was 81.

Kucks' daughter, Laura-Jean Arvelo, told The New York Times he died Thursday in Saddle River, N.J.

Kucks was in his second season with the Yankees when he shut out the cross-town Dodgers in the seventh game of the '56 Series. He compiled a 54-56 career record with a 4.10 ERA in six Major League seasons.

The Times said 1957 was by far Kucks' best year. He went 18-9, made the All-Star Game and was considered the most reliable New York starter other than the great Whitey Ford.