Smith, Ozzie (1954-…), ranks among the greatest fielding shortstops in baseball history. Smith gained fame for his range as a fielder and his accurate throwing arm. His fluid, effortless style often blended balletlike moves with gymnastics. Smith’s dazzling skill on the field gained him the nickname “The Wizard of Oz.”
While playing for the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres of the National League, Smith won 13 consecutive Gold Glove awards, from 1980 to 1992, a major league record for shortstops. A 15-time All-Star, he holds many National League records for shortstops, including most games played (2,511), most years leading the league in fielding (7), and most career double plays (1,590). Smith holds the major league record for shortstops for most career assists (8,375) and assists for a season (621).
Osborne Earl Smith was born on Dec. 26, 1954, in Mobile, Alabama. After graduating from California Polytechnic State University in 1977, Smith signed with the San Diego Padres. He spent part of the 1977 season in the minor leagues before joining the Padres in 1978. He was traded to St. Louis in 1982 and spent the rest of his career there, retiring after the 1996 season. Although Smith was known for his fielding, he was also an above average hitter, batting a career high .303 in 1987. He was also an accomplished bunter and baserunner. Smith was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002.
See also Saint Louis Cardinals ; San Diego Padres .
