Ron Reed's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of adaptability and skill. Born on November 2, 1942, in LaPorte, Indiana, Reed initially pursued a career in basketball, playing for the University of Notre Dame. His athletic prowess was evident early on, and he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1965 NBA Draft. However, Reed's path took a turn when he decided to focus on baseball, a decision that would lead to an 18-year career in the major leagues.

Reed began his baseball career with the Atlanta Braves, making his debut on September 26, 1966. As a right-handed pitcher, he quickly established himself as a reliable starter. In 1969, Reed played a crucial role in helping the Braves secure the National League West Division title, marking the team's first postseason appearance since moving to Atlanta. During that season, he posted a 3.47 ERA and won 18 games, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Throughout the early 1970s, Reed remained a steady presence in the Braves' rotation. His best season with Atlanta came in 1972 when he achieved a career-high 15 complete games and maintained a 2.93 ERA. Despite the Braves' struggles as a team, Reed's individual performances were consistently strong, earning him respect across the league.

In May 1975, Reed's career took another turn when he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. His time with the Cardinals was brief, lasting only part of the 1975 season before he was traded again, this time to the Philadelphia Phillies. It was with the Phillies that Reed transitioned from a starting pitcher to a relief role, a move that would extend his career and redefine his role on the team.

As a reliever, Reed found a new niche, becoming an integral part of the Phillies' bullpen. His ability to pitch effectively in late-inning situations proved invaluable, particularly during the team's successful run in the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1980, Reed was a key member of the Phillies' bullpen during their World Series-winning season. He appeared in 55 games that year, recording a 3.09 ERA and contributing significantly to the team's first-ever World Series championship.

Reed continued to pitch for the Phillies until 1983, providing veteran leadership and stability to the bullpen. His performance in the 1983 season helped the Phillies reach the World Series once again, although they ultimately fell to the Baltimore Orioles. After the 1983 season, Reed signed with the Chicago White Sox, where he played his final season in 1984 before retiring from professional baseball.

Over the course of his career, Ron Reed appeared in 751 games, achieving a win-loss record of 146-140 and an ERA of 3.46. He recorded 103 saves and struck out 1,481 batters. Reed's ability to adapt from a starting pitcher to a reliable reliever allowed him to maintain a lengthy and productive career in the major leagues.

Beyond his statistics, Reed's career is remembered for his adaptability and his role in the Phillies' success during a transformative period for the franchise.

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