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 430th career save during the July 6th, 1994 game when he was a member of the Baltimore Orioles. Smith pitched a scoreless ninth inning allowing one run on two hits and striking out one to preserve the Orioles 5-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. It was also Smith’s 29th 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 Smith’s signature is slightly faded in a couple areas, but is still readable. Inscriptions on this ball in faded black ink include “7-7-94”, “Seattle 001 000 201 – 4” and “Orioles 001 400 00X  5”. The ball shows signs of excellent use, is only slightly toned and has various abrasions present. Please note that Smith inscribed the date incorrectly. 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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