(SF Chronicle) The Giants issued a statement from owner Peter Magowan on Sunday saying, “When our partnership group took over the Giants in 1993, all of San Francisco was treated to a wonderful 103-win year. Nobody who was a part of that will forget Rod’s 48 saves. When we reached our dream of the playoffs in 1997, it was only fitting that Rod was on the mound for the final out that clinched the National League West.”
The next season, having gone to the Cubs as a free agent, he saved a career-high 51 games, including Chicago’s 5-3 victory over the Giants in a one-game play-in for the National League wild card. Beck’s velocity declined over the years, especially after he underwent “Tommy John” elbow surgery in 2002. By the time he signed with the Padres in 2003, he barely hit 83 mph with his fastball. However, when closer Trevor Hoffman went down with a shoulder injury, Beck converted 20 consecutive save opportunities.
“Shooter”, RIP
I wanted to post a Giants photo, but couldn’t find a worthy shot. bernie, if you can find a good one of Beck wearing the Giants’ uniform, send it over and I’ll replace this one.
This guy was awesome.
Heres a great piece that espn did on shooter a few years back.
http://espn.go.com/mlb/s/2003/0515/1554407.html