Mike Timlin's journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to his longevity and adaptability as a relief pitcher. Born on March 10, 1966, in Midland, Texas, Timlin attended Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, where he honed his skills on the mound. His professional career began when he was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth round of the 1987 MLB Draft.
Timlin made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on April 8, 1991. Over the next few years, he became a reliable presence in the bullpen. His tenure with Toronto was highlighted by back-to-back World Series championships in 1992 and 1993. In the 1992 World Series, Timlin played a crucial role in securing the title by recording the final out in Game 6 against the Atlanta Braves, a moment that remains etched in the memories of Blue Jays fans.
After his time in Toronto, Timlin's career saw him donning several different uniforms. In 1997, he was traded to the Seattle Mariners, where he continued to be a dependable reliever. His stint with the Mariners was followed by a move to the Baltimore Orioles in 1999. During his time in Baltimore, Timlin maintained his reputation as a steady bullpen arm.
The year 2000 marked a new chapter for Timlin as he joined the St. Louis Cardinals. His performance with the Cardinals was solid, and he contributed to the team's success during his tenure. In 2002, Timlin was traded mid-season to the Philadelphia Phillies, where he finished the year before entering free agency.
Timlin's career took another significant turn when he signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2003. His time in Boston proved to be particularly memorable. As a member of the Red Sox, Timlin was part of the team that broke the "Curse of the Bambino" by winning the World Series in 2004. His experience and poise under pressure were invaluable assets to the Red Sox bullpen during their historic postseason run.
Timlin continued to pitch for the Red Sox until 2008, adding another World Series ring to his collection in 2007. Throughout his career in Boston, he was known for his ability to handle high-pressure situations and his leadership in the clubhouse.
Over the course of his 18-year career, Timlin appeared in 1,058 games, a testament to his durability and effectiveness as a reliever. He retired with a career earned run average (ERA) of 3.63 and 141 saves. His longevity in the league and his ability to perform consistently at a high level made him a respected figure among teammates and opponents alike.
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