He led the National League in earned run average in 1943, and was the winning pitcher of the clinching game in the 1944 World Series against the Browns.

Born in Denton, North Carolina, Lanier was one of a handful of players who remained active during the World War II years.

[1] However, disappointed by poor playing conditions and allegedly broken contract promises, he tried to return to the Cardinals in 1948 but was barred by an order from commissioner Happy Chandler, imposing a five-year suspension on all players who had jumped to the Mexican League.

[2] Lanier immediately held out for more money than he was being paid at the time of his leaving for Mexico,[3] but eventually signed a contract paying him the same amount as in 1946.

Over fourteen seasons, Lanier posted a 108–82 record with 821 strikeouts and a 3.01 ERA in 16191⁄3 innings pitched, including 21 shutouts and 91 complete games.