Joe Slusarski, a right-handed pitcher, embarked on his Major League Baseball (MLB) journey when he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round of the 1988 MLB Draft. His professional debut came on April 11, 1991, with the Athletics, marking the beginning of a career that spanned over a decade in the major leagues.
During his rookie season with the Athletics, Slusarski appeared in 22 games, starting 14 of them. He finished the season with a 5-7 record and a 5.27 ERA. His performance showed promise, and he continued to be a part of the Athletics' pitching staff in the following season. In 1992, he pitched in 18 games, starting 10, and recorded a 6-5 record with a 4.31 ERA. However, his time with the Athletics was cut short when he was released in 1993.
Slusarski's career continued as he signed with the Milwaukee Brewers, although he did not make an appearance for their major league team. He then found an opportunity with the Houston Astros, where he played from 1995 to 1997. During his tenure with the Astros, Slusarski primarily served as a relief pitcher. In 1995, he pitched in 18 games, posting a 3.47 ERA, and in 1996, he appeared in 20 games with a 5.40 ERA. His final season with the Astros saw him in 10 games, where he struggled with a 7.71 ERA.
After his stint with the Astros, Slusarski spent some time in the minor leagues, working to refine his skills and regain his form. His perseverance paid off when he signed with the Atlanta Braves in 1999. Although his time with the Braves was brief, he managed to make a few appearances, adding to his MLB experience.
The latter part of Slusarski's career saw him with the Oakland Athletics once again in 2000, where he pitched in 10 games, recording a 4.50 ERA. He then joined the Houston Astros for a second time in 2001, appearing in 13 games with a 4.50 ERA. His final MLB appearance came on July 13, 2001.
Throughout his career, Slusarski played in 118 major league games, starting 23 of them. He finished with a career record of 13 wins and 21 losses, along with a 5.18 ERA. While his time in the major leagues had its ups and downs, Slusarski's journey through professional baseball is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
⚾