Oakland Athletics: The Top 50 Oakland A’s of All-Time

#12: Dave Stewart

Although he’s currently the general manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Dave Stewart once played an important role on the field for the Oakland A’s. After an average start to his career with the Dodgers, Stewart had some rough years with the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies. In 1986, after a failed tryout with the Baltimore Orioles, Stewart signed a contract with the A’s and found himself becomimg a key member of the Athletics’ rotation.

Stewart’s most notable moments may have come in the postseason. He went 21-12 during the 1988 regular season, an impressive feat in itself, but he started two of the A’s four wins against the Boston Red Sox in the American League Champion Ship Series, as well as allowing just three runs in eight innings in his first World Series start. Although the A’s didn’t take the pennant that year, Stewart helped them try again next season.

In 1989, he again won both ALCS starts after going 21-9 during the regular season. Then, he started the World Series with a complete game shutout. After an earthquake delayed the start of Game 3, Stewart was able to get enough rest to pitch again – picking up another win and helping the Athletics to a World Championship. He was even named MVP of the series for his efforts. Stewart had two more great seasons with the A’s, but signed with the Blue Jays before the 1993 season.

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