When former closer Lee Smith retired from baseball in 1997, he was the all-time saves leader with 478. Only Trevor Hoffman and Mariano Rivera finished with more career saves than the big righty from Louisiana. Drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 2nd round of the 1975 MLB Amateur Draft, Smith made his debut with the “Northsiders” on September 1, 1980. His 18-year career saw him pitch for the Cubs, Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, California Angels, Cincinnati Reds and Montreal Expos.

     Smith picked up his 32nd save of the 1992 season on August 21st, 1992 at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as his Cardinals defeated the Braves 5-2. This save was also his 344th of his career and his scoreless ninth inning with only one walk, preserved the victory. Smith signed this Official National League William D. White baseball on the side panel as this ball was used during that game. The ball displays excellent use and is heavily toned. Inscriptions on this ball in light blue ink include “Save #344”, “8/21/92”, “ST LOUIS 100 100 000 3 –5 10 0” and “Atlanta 010 000 100 0 – 2 7 1”.This game used and signed baseball comes with a LOA from Lee Smith.

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