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 earned his 20th save of the 1992 season and 332nd of his career when he pitched the ninth inning in the Cardinals 6-3 victory over the San Diego Padres at Jack Murphy Stadium on July 7th, 1992. Smith pitched a scoreless inning and did not allow a hit or walk to preserve the victory. This Official National League William D. White baseball displays moderate use and is toned. This ball was used during this game and Smith signed his name in blue pen on the side panel. Smith inscribed in now faded black ink “20^th save 10 yrs”, “7-8-92” and “ST Louis 002 121 000 –6 11 0” and “San Diego 100 011 000 –3 10 0”. Please note that Smith inscribed the wrong date on this ball. 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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