Friday, February 6, 2015

TTM Goodness: Tim Belcher

Tim Belcher was the first overall pick in the June 1983 draft (by the Twins) but he didn't sign. He was then selected first overall in the secondary draft in January 1984 by the Yankees for whom he did sign. Then in February 1984, the A's stole him from the Yanks as a free agent compensation pick. Then, partway through the 1987 season, the A's sent him to the Dodgers. The Dodgers would finally give him his first big league appearance in 1987.

After 5 years in LA, Belcher was traded to the Reds. In 1992, with Cincy, he went 15-14 in 34 starts with a 3.91 ERA and 149 strikeouts. Still with the Reds in 1993, Belcher went 9-6 in 22 starts before being traded to the White Sox midyear. He would later sign with Tigers, re-sign with the Reds, get traded to the Mariners 12 days after the re-signing, sign with the Royals, and sign with the Angels.

All told, Belcher would spend 14 years in the majors, winning 146 games and striking out over 1500 batters. He was named Rookie Pitcher of the Year in 1988, a year that included 3 playoff victories (1 in the World Series). Belcher recorded 8 shutouts in 1989, the only player with more than 5 until Cliff Lee 22 years later. 

He is currently the pitching coach of the Cleveland Indians. Signed is a 1993 Triple Play #163.

Go Reds.

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