Steve Bedrosian, known for his powerful right arm and competitive spirit, made a name for himself in Major League Baseball as a reliable relief pitcher. Born on December 6, 1957, in Methuen, Massachusetts, Bedrosian attended the University of New Haven, where he honed his skills on the mound before being drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 1978 MLB Draft.
Bedrosian's major league debut came on August 14, 1981, with the Braves. Initially, he was used as a starting pitcher, but it was in the bullpen where he found his true calling. Over the next few years, Bedrosian transitioned into a relief role, where his fastball and slider became his signature pitches. By 1982, he had established himself as a reliable arm in the Braves' bullpen, contributing to the team's success during the early 1980s.
In 1985, Bedrosian was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies, where he would achieve some of his greatest career highlights. The 1987 season was particularly memorable for Bedrosian, as he led the National League with 40 saves and was awarded the prestigious Cy Young Award, becoming one of the few relief pitchers to earn this honor. His performance that year was a testament to his skill and ability to close out games under pressure.
After his stint with the Phillies, Bedrosian was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 1989. During his time with the Giants, he continued to be a dependable presence in the bullpen, helping the team reach the World Series in 1989. Although the Giants fell to the Oakland Athletics in the series, Bedrosian's contributions throughout the season were invaluable to the team's success.
In 1991, Bedrosian returned to the Atlanta Braves, where he played a role in the team's remarkable turnaround. The Braves, who had been struggling in the years prior, became one of the dominant teams of the early 1990s. Bedrosian's experience and leadership in the bullpen were assets as the Braves made multiple postseason appearances during his tenure.
Bedrosian's career came full circle when he signed with the Minnesota Twins in 1993. He spent two seasons with the Twins before retiring from professional baseball in 1995. Over his career, Bedrosian accumulated 184 saves, a testament to his effectiveness as a closer.
Off the field, Bedrosian was known for his quiet demeanor and professionalism. He was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his work ethic and dedication to the game. After retiring, Bedrosian remained involved in baseball, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players.
⚾