Dave Smith, a former All-Star closer who holds the Houston Astros record for games pitched, has died. He was 53.
Former big leaguer Tim Flannery said Smith apparently died of a heart attack, but the official cause of death wasn't known. Smith was an All-Star with Houston in 1986 and 1990, and had 216 saves in a 13-year career.
He played with Houston from 1980-90 before finishing his career with two seasons with the Chicago Cubs.
His 563 outings with the Astros is tops on the club's list, and his 199 saves ranks second.
"The Houston Astros are shocked and saddened," the team said in a statement Thursday. "Dave was an integral part of the club for 11 seasons and will be remembered as an All-Star reliever on the field but most notably as a valued leader, teammate, and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Flannery and Smith worked together on the San Diego Padres' coaching staff from 1999 until Smith resigned in June 2001 to spend more time with his family. Smith missed the first month of the 2001 season to complete an alcohol rehabilitation program.
"He was the most giving, unconditionally compassionate man anyone ever came across," Flannery said. "Everybody's got Dave Smith stories. Usually it's him reaching into his pocket and pulling out $100 to give to someone selling newspapers for a quarter."
