Former Astros Reliever Dave Smith, Dead At 53

Former All-Star closer Dave Smith has died of a heart attack. Smith played for the Astros from 1980-90 and was an All-Star in 1986 and 1990. He finished his career with the Chicago Cubs in 1992. In 13 years, he posted a 2.67 ERA with 216 saves in 609 games. Smith established several team records while with the Astros including being second all time in saves with 199 (behind Billy Wagner). He also is the all time team leader in appearances (562), relief wins (53), relief innings (760) and most games finished (400). He was also a key member of the 1980 and 1986 Astros clubs that reached the National League Championship Series. He gave up the Lenny Dykstra game-winning homerun in game 3 of the 1986 NLCS. Smith is the third pitcher from the 1980 NLCS Astros club to die in the last two years, joining Joe Niekro and Vern Ruhle. Our condolences to the Astros and to the family of Dave Smith.