Tim Stoddard's journey through Major League Baseball is marked by his role as a reliable relief pitcher. Born on January 24, 1953, in East Chicago, Indiana, Stoddard initially made a name for himself in college sports, not on the baseball diamond, but on the basketball court. He was part of the North Carolina State University basketball team that won the NCAA championship in 1974. However, it was his baseball career that would later define his professional life.
Stoddard's entry into Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the second round of the 1975 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Baltimore Orioles on September 7, 1975. Over the next several years, he became a dependable presence in the Orioles' bullpen. His imposing 6-foot-7-inch frame and powerful fastball made him a challenging opponent for batters.
One of the highlights of Stoddard's career came in 1979 when he played a crucial role in the Orioles' journey to the World Series. During that season, he appeared in 29 games, posting a 3.61 ERA and earning three saves. In the postseason, he continued to perform well, helping the Orioles reach the World Series, although they ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Stoddard's tenure with the Orioles lasted until 1983, during which he became known for his consistency and ability to handle high-pressure situations. In 1980, he had one of his best seasons, recording a 3.10 ERA over 64 games and securing 26 saves, which ranked him among the league leaders in that category.
After leaving the Orioles, Stoddard continued his career with several other teams, including the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, New York Yankees, and Cleveland Indians. His time with the Cubs in 1984 was particularly memorable, as he contributed to the team's first postseason appearance since 1945. That year, he pitched in 58 games, maintaining a 3.82 ERA and adding seven saves to his record.
Stoddard's ability to adapt to different teams and situations was evident throughout his career. He was often called upon in late-inning situations, where his experience and poise were invaluable. His career statistics include a 3.95 ERA, 485 strikeouts, and 76 saves over 485 games, reflecting his steady presence on the mound.
Beyond his playing days, Stoddard's connection to baseball continued as he transitioned into coaching. He served as a pitching coach at various levels, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. His understanding of the game and ability to mentor aspiring pitchers underscored his lasting connection to the sport.
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