Dave Smith, a right-handed relief pitcher, played an essential role in Major League Baseball during his career. Born on January 21, 1955, in Richmond, California, Smith attended San Diego State University, where he honed his skills on the mound. His talent caught the attention of scouts, leading to his selection by the Houston Astros in the 8th round of the 1976 MLB Draft.
Smith made his MLB debut with the Astros on April 11, 1980. Over the next decade, he became a reliable presence in the bullpen. Known for his effective slider and calm demeanor under pressure, Smith quickly established himself as a dependable closer. Throughout his tenure with the Astros, he consistently delivered strong performances, earning the trust of his managers and teammates.
In 1986, Smith had one of his best seasons, recording 33 saves with a 2.73 ERA. His efforts helped the Astros reach the National League Championship Series (NLCS) that year. Although the team fell to the New York Mets in a memorable six-game series, Smith's contributions were vital to the Astros' success that season.
Smith's consistency on the mound earned him two All-Star selections, in 1986 and 1990. His ability to maintain a low ERA and secure saves made him one of the top relievers in the National League during his peak years. By the end of his tenure with the Astros in 1990, Smith had accumulated 199 saves, setting a franchise record at the time.
In 1991, Smith signed with the Chicago Cubs as a free agent. He continued to perform well, albeit in a reduced role compared to his time with the Astros. Over two seasons with the Cubs, he added 17 saves to his career total before retiring from professional baseball in 1992.
Throughout his career, Smith was known for his professionalism and sportsmanship. He finished with a career ERA of 2.67 and 216 saves, ranking him among the top relievers of his era. After retiring, Smith remained involved in baseball, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players.
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