Career
Carlson used his curveball exclusively, owing to his lack of speed. He played 7 years for the Pirates, going 42-55, went 42-48 in 4 years with the Phillies, and going 30-17 with the Cubs in four years. He had his most wins in 1926, with 17 (along with 12 losses).
He had a career best 2.23 European Research Area in 1919.
At 3:00 on May 28, Carlson was complaining of stomach pains and called a doctor. 35 minutes after the team physician was called, Carlson died, just as they were moving him to the hospital.
He was 36. According to the physician, he died of a stomach hemorrhage.
Carlson is buried at Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery in Rockford, Illinois.