Former Astro and Cub Reliever Dave Smith Passed Away

Dave Smith, the Astros' closer in the 80s, died today of a heart attack, according to MLB.com. Smith was 53 and in San Diego at the time of his death.

Smith saved at least 23 games for six straight seasons, snapping the run during the first of two seasons as a Cub. He saved 17 for Chicago in 1991, and retired after just 11 appearances in 1992. The only pitcher with more saves as an Astro is Billy Wagner.

According to The Neyer/James Guide to Pitchers, Smith threw a fastball, sinker, curveball and a forkball.

update Here's a story from the AP that tells you more about Dave Smith from his friends/teammates/surfers.