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 408th career save during the April 19th, 1994 game when he was a member of the Baltimore Orioles. Smith got the last two outs in the ninth inning, allowing only a hit with two strikeouts to preserve the Orioles 4-3 victory over the California Angels at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. It was also Smith’s seventh save of the 1994 season. This Official American League Bobby Brown baseball was used during that game. Smith signed his name in bold blue pen on the side panel. Please note that the top of the “L” in Smith’s signature is slightly faded but still readable. Inscriptions on this ball in faded black ink include “5-19-94”, “Cal 000 100 110” and “BAL 001 210 00X”. Please note that Smith inscribed the incorrect date on this ball. The ball shows signs of solid game use and is only slightly toned with some abrasions. This game used and signed baseball comes with a LOA from Lee Smith, who in his LOA states that this ball has been in his personal collection.

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