John Samuel Vander Meer (November 2, 1914 - October 6, 1997) was a pitcher in Major League Baseball. From 1937 through 1951, he played for the Cincinnati Reds (1937-1949), Chicago Cubs (1950) and Cleveland Indians (1951). Vander Meer threw left-handed and batted as a switch hitter. He was born in Midland Park, New Jersey. A four-time All-Star, Vander Meer compiled a 119-121 record with 1294 strikeouts and a 3.44 ERA in 2104.2 innings over a 13-year Major League career. He had 29 career shutouts, but two of the three he recorded in 1938 will be remembered most.