Tanana's major league career spanned from 1973 to 1993 and saw him playing for the Angels, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, and New York Yankees. June 21, 1975 was a memorable day in Tanana's career – he struck out 17 batters in one game. In his prime, he was known for a blazing 100+ MPH fastball, which he abruptly lost when he injured his arm. However, he was able to develop an assortment of off-speed pitches (including an excellent curveball) and continue his career. He was given the nickname "Frank Tanana Daiquiri" by broadcaster Chris Berman of ESPN.