A's broadcaster Ray Fosse reveals he has cancer, will step away from the booth

[Auggie]

7. It wasn't all bad luck ...

Years ago Fosse shared a story on air about how cheap the franchise operated. All you needed to do to leave the team was ask for a raise. Boom -- instant trade that usually resulting in inexpensive, underperforming journeymen in return.

McDowell was an alcoholic that Cleveland miraculously unloaded to San Francisco in a trade for Gaylord Perry (one of the few bright spots) and a weak-hitting SS named Frank Duffy.

Boog Powell was at the end of the career when he landed at Cleveland, had one great year, but it wasn't enough to help the team finish above .500. Frank Robinson (as player/manager) didn't make much of an impact, though Cleveland will always have the boast of hiring the first black manager in MLB.

Charboneau made his debut in 1980, suffered a back injury in Spring training in 1981, and was never the same. This one was bad luck.

The early to mid 70s were truly dismal years for Cleveland baseball.