A talented relief pitcher who played for the Cleveland Indians and was tragically killed in a boating accident at age 27, leaving behind a promising career.
Steve Olin, the American right-handed pitcher, is remembered for his unique submarine-style pitching and his brief but impact-filled career with the Cleveland Indians in the late 1980s and early 1990s. In his four seasons with the Indians, Olin established himself as a reliable relief pitcher, earning 48 saves and posting a 3.10 earned run average (ERA) in 273 innings pitched.
Born on October 4, 1965, in Portland, Oregon, Olin grew up in nearby Beaverton and developed a passion for baseball at a young age. He attended Beaverton High School, where he was recruited by baseball coach Jack Dunn to attend Portland State University. At Portland State, Olin set a Pac-10 Conference record with 31 career complete games between 1984 and 1987.
Olins professional baseball career began in 1987 when he was signed by the Cleveland Indians as an amateur free agent. He made his major league debut on September 1, 1988, and went on to pitch in 195 games for the Indians between 1988 and 1992. During his time with the Indians, Olin earned a reputation as a reliable submarine-style relief pitcher, capable of getting out of tight situations with his unique sidearm delivery.
Tragically, Olins life was cut short in a boating accident on Little Lake Nellie in Clermont, Florida, during spring training in 1993. The accident, which also claimed the life of fellow reliever Tim Crews and seriously injured Bob Ojeda, sent shockwaves throughout the baseball world. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Cleveland Indians honored Olin and Crews by wearing a patch on their jerseys featuring both players' uniform numbers during the 1993 season.
The Beatles' song "Yellow Submarine" was played before each of Olin's appearances for the Indians in home games, a nod to his unique submarine-style pitching. Additionally, one of Olin's favorite songs, Garth Brooks' "The Dance," was played over the stadium speakers when the Indians clinched the 1995 American League Central Division title, a poignant tribute to the fallen pitcher.
Steve Olin's unique submarine-style pitching and his tragic death at a young age have made him a fascinating figure in baseball lore. His legacy continues to inspire young pitchers and baseball fans alike, serving as a reminder of the impact one person can have on the game.
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