About the Back: Smiley wound up being a one-year rental for the Twins, signing a free agent deal with Cincinnati prior to the 1993 season.
Triple Play:
1. He was a three-sport athlete in high school - football, basketball, and baseball. It makes me tired just thinking about it.
2. On September 22, 1996, John tossed the last of his three career one-hitters, with only a leadoff single by Royce Clayton in the fourth inning spoiling a would-be perfect game. He struck out eight Cardinals hitters.
3. After a midseason trade to the Indians in 1997, Smiley suffered a career-ending injury, breaking his left humerus while warming up prior to a start. That's a gruesome way to go.
11-Year-Old Kevin Says: When I read that John Smiley had beaned Cal Ripken during the latter's career-worst 1992 season, the lefty pitcher made my enemies list.
Bill James Said: "Developed a bone spur on his elbow, and had his most difficult season."
On This Date in 1993: January 26. Actor Cameron Bright (Birth, Thank You for Smoking, X-Men: The Last Stand) is born.
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