Lamp's early years with the Cubs saw him primarily as a starting pitcher. In 1978, his first full season, he posted a 7-15 record with a 3.30 ERA, demonstrating his potential despite the team's struggles. Over the next few seasons, Lamp continued to develop his skills on the mound, becoming known for his sinker and ability to induce ground balls. His tenure with the Cubs lasted until 1980, during which he accumulated valuable experience and honed his craft.
In 1981, Lamp was traded to the Chicago White Sox, where he transitioned into a more versatile role, splitting time between starting and relieving. This adaptability proved beneficial for both Lamp and the teams he played for. During his time with the White Sox, he achieved a career highlight by pitching a no-hitter against the Milwaukee Brewers on August 25, 1981, although it was a rain-shortened game and not officially recognized as a no-hitter by MLB standards.
Lamp's career took another turn when he joined the Toronto Blue Jays in 1983. With the Blue Jays, he became a full-time reliever, a role in which he excelled. His performance in the bullpen helped the team reach the postseason for the first time in franchise history in 1985. Lamp's ability to provide stability and experience was invaluable during this period of growth for the Blue Jays.
After his stint in Toronto, Lamp signed with the Oakland Athletics in 1987. His time with the A's was brief, and he soon found himself with the Boston Red Sox, where he played from 1988 to 1991. In Boston, Lamp continued to be a dependable arm out of the bullpen, contributing to the team's efforts to compete in the American League East.
Lamp's final season in the majors was with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1992. Over the course of his career, he appeared in 639 games, starting 161 of them, and recorded a 96-96 win-loss record with a 3.93 ERA. His ability to adapt to different roles and maintain a steady presence on the mound allowed him to enjoy a lengthy career in the major leagues.
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