A relief pitcher with a dominant slider, known for his impressive ERA and strikeout rate during the 1980s.
Tom Niedenfuer is best known for his exceptional relief pitching skills, which earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable relievers of the 1980s. During his 10-year career, he played for four teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners, and St. Louis Cardinals.
Born on August 13, 1959, in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, Niedenfuer grew up in Pennsylvania and Washington. He attended Redmond High School, where he developed his passion for baseball. After graduating in 1977, he was drafted by the Dodgers in the 36th round but chose not to sign. Instead, he opted for college baseball at Washington State University, where he excelled under the guidance of coach Bobo Brayton.
Niedenfuer began his professional journey in 1981 with the San Antonio Dodgers in the Double-A Texas League. He made his major league debut in mid-August 1981, appearing in 17 games for the Dodgers. His impressive performance in the World Series, where he pitched five scoreless innings in two games, helped the Dodgers defeat the New York Yankees in six games.
1983 was Niedenfuer's best all-around year, during which he pitched in a career-high 66 games, posting an 8-3 record with 11 saves and a 1.90 ERA. In 1985, he went 7-9, but set career highs in saves (19) and innings pitched (106.1), with a 2.71 ERA.
One of the most memorable moments of Niedenfuer's career was his appearance in the 1985 National League Championship Series. Unfortunately, he gave up a walk-off home run to Ozzie Smith in Game 5, giving the St. Louis Cardinals a one-game lead. Two days later, he was victimized by a Jack Clark three-run homer with two outs in the ninth inning, which gave the Cardinals the pennant in six games.
After leaving the Dodgers in 1987, Niedenfuer played for the Orioles, Mariners, and Cardinals, before retiring in 1990. His legacy as a reliable reliever has endured, and he remains one of the most memorable players of the 1980s.
Tom Niedenfuer's remarkable career serves as a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. As a relief pitcher, he made a lasting impact on the MLB, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of baseball players.
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