Derek Lowe: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|American baseball player (born 1973)}} | {{short description|American baseball player (born 1973)}} | ||
{{About|the Major League Baseball pitcher|the medicinal chemist and blogger|Derek Lowe (chemist)}} | {{About|the Major League Baseball pitcher|the medicinal chemist and blogger|Derek Lowe (chemist)}}{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2012}}{{Infobox baseball biography | ||
{{Infobox baseball biography | |||
| name=Derek Lowe | | name=Derek Lowe | ||
| image=Derek Lowe Atlanta Braves.jpg | | image=Derek Lowe Atlanta Braves.jpg | ||
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| debutteam=Seattle Mariners | | debutteam=Seattle Mariners | ||
|finalleague = MLB | |finalleague = MLB | ||
| finaldate | | finaldate = May 19 | ||
| finalyear | | finalyear = 2013 | ||
| finalteam | | finalteam = Texas Rangers | ||
|statleague = MLB | | statleague = MLB | ||
| stat1label=[[Win–loss record (pitching)|Win–loss record]] | | stat1label=[[Win–loss record (pitching)|Win–loss record]] | ||
| stat1value=176–157 | | stat1value=176–157 | ||
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'''Derek Christopher Lowe''' (born June 1, 1973) is an American former professional [[baseball]] [[pitcher]]. During his career, he played in [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) for the [[Seattle Mariners]], [[Boston Red Sox]], [[Los Angeles Dodgers]], [[Atlanta Braves]], [[Cleveland Indians]], [[New York Yankees]], and [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]]. | '''Derek Christopher Lowe''' (born June 1, 1973) is an American former professional [[baseball]] [[pitcher]]. During his career, he played in [[Major League Baseball]] (MLB) for the [[Seattle Mariners]], [[Boston Red Sox]], [[Los Angeles Dodgers]], [[Atlanta Braves]], [[Cleveland Indians]], [[New York Yankees]], and [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]]. | ||
Lowe made his MLB debut in 1997. | Lowe made his MLB debut in 1997 with Seattle. With the Red Sox, he was an [[Major League Baseball All-Star Game|All-Star]] in 2000 and 2002 and threw a [[no-hitter]] in 2002. In the [[2004 Major League Baseball postseason|2004 postseason]], he had a 3–0 [[Win–loss record (pitching)|win–loss record]] as he helped Boston win its first [[2004 World Series|World Series]] championship in 86 years. | ||
==Early years== | ==Early years== | ||
Lowe attended [[Edsel Ford High School]] in [[Dearborn, Michigan]], where he was a four-sport [[Letterman (sports)|letterman]] in baseball, golf, soccer, and basketball. He was an All-League honoree in all four sports | Lowe attended [[Edsel Ford High School]] in [[Dearborn, Michigan]], where he was a four-sport [[Letterman (sports)|letterman]] in baseball, golf, soccer, and basketball. He was an All-League honoree in all four sports and was a first-team All-State in basketball. Lowe committed to attend [[Eastern Michigan University]] on a [[Eastern Michigan Eagles men's basketball|basketball]] scholarship.<ref name="espn">{{cite web |date=2003-03-11 |title=Baseball the right choice for Lowe |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1392434 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802181222/https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1392434 |archive-date=2020-08-02 |access-date=2012-08-13 |publisher=[[ESPN]] |agency=Associated Press}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite book |url=https://archive.org/details/seattle-mariners-1995-media-guide-c/page/71/ |title=Seattle Mariners 1995 Media Guide |date=1995 |pages=71, 72}}</ref> | ||
==Baseball career== | ==Baseball career== | ||
===Minor leagues=== | === Seattle Mariners === | ||
==== Minor leagues ==== | |||
The [[Seattle Mariners]] [[Draft (sports)|drafted]] Lowe in the eighth round of the [[1991 MLB draft]]. He signed with the Mariners on June 7, 1991, forgoing his college scholarship.<ref name=espn/> The Mariners immediately assigned him to their rookie league team, where he went 5–3 with a 2.41 [[earned run average]] (ERA) in 12 starts. | The [[Seattle Mariners]] [[Draft (sports)|drafted]] Lowe in the eighth round of the [[1991 MLB draft]]. He signed with the Mariners on June 7, 1991, forgoing his college scholarship.<ref name=espn/> The Mariners immediately assigned him to their rookie league team, where he went 5–3 with a 2.41 [[earned run average]] (ERA) in 12 starts. | ||
He spent the next several years | He spent the next several years advancing through the minor leagues, pitching for the Class A Short Season [[Bellingham Mariners]] in 1992, Single-A [[Riverside Pilots]] in 1993, then spending two years in Double-A, with the [[Jacksonville Suns]] in 1994 and [[Port City Roosters]] in 1995. He pitched for Port City the Triple-A [[Tacoma Rainiers]] in 1996. He was a starting pitcher in the minors. He also pitched in the Arizona Fall League in 1993. ''[[Baseball America]]'' ranked him as a top 100 prospect in 1993 and 1994.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Derek Lowe Minor Leagues Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=lowe--001der |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=[[Baseball Reference]]}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> | ||
=== | === Major leagues === | ||
Lowe made his major league debut on April 26, [[1997 Seattle Mariners season|1997]], working {{frac|3|2|3}} innings in [[Relief pitcher|relief]] against the [[1997 Toronto Blue Jays season|Toronto Blue Jays]]. He made his first major league start on May 27 | Lowe made his major league debut on April 26, [[1997 Seattle Mariners season|1997]], working {{frac|3|2|3}} innings in [[Relief pitcher|relief]] against the [[1997 Toronto Blue Jays season|Toronto Blue Jays]]. He made his first major league start on May 27 against the [[1997 Minnesota Twins season|Minnesota Twins]], giving up four [[Run (baseball)|runs]] in five innings. His first career [[Win (baseball)|win]] came on June 6 against the [[1997 Detroit Tigers season|Detroit Tigers]], pitching {{frac|5|1|3}} innings and giving up 3 runs in the Mariners' 6–3 victory.<ref name=moncrc>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=E08tAAAAIBAJ&sjid=utAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=5602%2C2349384 |work=Moscow-Pullman Daily News |location=Idaho-Washington |agency=Associated Press |title=Mariners on Cruz control |date=June 7, 1997 |page=3D}}</ref> | ||
Seattle, however, was desperate for immediate [[bullpen]] help | Seattle, however, was desperate for immediate [[bullpen]] help<ref name="mbetr">{{cite news |last=Golen |first=Jimmy |date=July 31, 1997 |title=Mariners betrayed by bullpen |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=ue4xAAAAIBAJ&sjid=_esDAAAAIBAJ&pg=5884%2C7886677 |work=[[Eugene Register-Guard]] |page=1D |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> and traded Lowe and [[catcher]] [[Jason Varitek]] to the [[1997 Boston Red Sox season|Boston Red Sox]] for reliever [[Heathcliff Slocumb]].<ref name=crztoto>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bYBXAAAAIBAJ&sjid=yPEDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6205%2C123318 |work=Spokesman-Review |location=Spokane, Washington |last=Street |first=Jim |title=Mariners ship Cruz to Toronto in effort to shore up their bullpen |date=August 1, 1997 |page=C1}}</ref><ref name=bbtrd>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=I7VeAAAAIBAJ&sjid=JDAMAAAAIBAJ&pg=3874%2C56699 |work=Lewiston Morning Tribune |location=Idaho |agency=Associated Press |title=Blockbuster trades made in 11th hour|date=August 1, 1997 |page=1B}}</ref><ref name=espn/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/boston/access/13329687.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+01%2C+1997&author=Michael+Vega%2C+Globe+Staff&pub=Boston+Globe&desc=Slocumb+loses%2C+leaves+After+Sox+fall%2C+he%27s+dealt+to+Mariners&pqatl=google |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131150720/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/boston/access/13329687.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+01,+1997&author=Michael+Vega,+Globe+Staff&pub=Boston+Globe&desc=Slocumb+loses,+leaves+After+Sox+fall,+he's+dealt+to+Mariners&pqatl=google |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |title=Slocumb loses, leaves After Sox fall, he's dealt to Mariners |publisher=Pqasb.pqarchiver.com |date=1997-08-01 |access-date=2012-10-10}}</ref> The trade on July 31, orchestrated by Mariners' general manager [[Woody Woodward]], is considered one of the worst trades in franchise history.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-07-22 |title=Most lopsided MLB trades in recent memory |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/page/tradedeadline_lopsidedtrades/most-lopsided-mlb-trades-recent-memory |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-17 |title=4 trades from the 1990s the Seattle Mariners no doubt wish they could do over |url=https://sodomojo.com/4-trades-from-the-1990s-the-seattle-mariners-no-doubt-wish-they-could-do-over/4 |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=Sodo Mojo |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brisbee |first=Grant |author-link=Grant Brisbee |date=2017-07-29 |title=It's the 20th anniversary of one of the worst trades in baseball history |url=https://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2017/7/29/16050696/mariners-red-sox-heathcliff-slocumb-worst-trades-in-baseball-history |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=[[SB Nation]]}}</ref> | ||
===Boston Red Sox=== | ===Boston Red Sox=== | ||
Lowe compiled a 5–15 record over his first two seasons, during which he split time starting and relieving, but came into his own in 1999 after being transferred into the [[Closer (baseball)|closer]]'s role, finishing the season with 15 [[Save (baseball)|saves]] and a 2.63 ERA.<ref name=espn/> | Lowe compiled a 5–15 record over his first two seasons, during which he split time starting and relieving, but came into his own in 1999 after being transferred into the [[Closer (baseball)|closer]]'s role, finishing the season with 15 [[Save (baseball)|saves]] and a 2.63 ERA.<ref name=espn/> | ||
Lowe had his best season as a closer in 2000 when he led the [[American League]] with 42 saves, to go along with a 2.56 ERA.<ref name=espn/> Despite recording 24 saves early in the 2001 season, Lowe lost the closer's job soon after the trading deadline when the Red Sox acquired [[Ugueth Urbina]].<ref name=espn/> Lowe was left in limbo, demoted to various setup jobs in the bullpen. Instead he asked manager [[Joe Kerrigan]] to return him to the starting rotation; Kerrigan agreed, and Lowe pitched 16 innings as a starter before the end of the season.<ref name=espn/> The following year, 2002, was Lowe's coming out party as a starter, as he posted a 21–8 record to go with a 2.58 ERA, finishing third in [[Cy Young Award]] voting behind [[Barry Zito]] and Lowe's teammate [[Pedro Martínez]]. Lowe [[no-hitter|no-hit]] the [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]] at [[Fenway Park]] on April 27 that year, becoming the first pitcher to do so at Fenway Park since [[Dave Morehead]] in 1965. Lowe faced just one over the minimum in the game; only a third inning walk to [[Brent Abernathy]] separated Lowe from a [[Perfect game (baseball)|perfect game]]. Additionally, Lowe was the starting pitcher for the | Lowe had his best season as a closer in 2000 when he led the [[American League]] (AL) with 42 saves, to go along with a 2.56 ERA.<ref name=espn/> Despite recording 24 saves early in the 2001 season, Lowe lost the closer's job soon after the trading deadline when the Red Sox acquired [[Ugueth Urbina]].<ref name=espn/> Lowe was left in limbo, demoted to various setup jobs in the bullpen. Instead he asked manager [[Joe Kerrigan]] to return him to the starting rotation; Kerrigan agreed, and Lowe pitched 16 innings as a starter before the end of the season.<ref name=espn/> The following year, 2002, was Lowe's coming out party as a starter, as he posted a 21–8 record to go with a 2.58 ERA, finishing third in [[Cy Young Award]] voting behind [[Barry Zito]] and Lowe's teammate [[Pedro Martínez]]. Lowe [[no-hitter|no-hit]] the [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]] at [[Fenway Park]] on April 27 that year, becoming the first pitcher to do so at Fenway Park since [[Dave Morehead]] in 1965. Lowe faced just one batter over the minimum in the game; only a third inning walk to [[Brent Abernathy]] separated Lowe from a [[Perfect game (baseball)|perfect game]]. Additionally, Lowe was the starting pitcher for the AL in the [[2002 Major League Baseball All-Star Game|All-Star Game]] that year. | ||
Lowe | [[File:Derek Lowe and Pedro Martinez WS Victory Parade.jpg|thumb|Lowe (left) and [[Pedro Martínez]] at the Red Sox World Series Victory Parade in 2004.|alt=On the left: Derek Lowe, in a sweatshirt and backwards hat, raising his arm. Center: Pedro Martinez in a red, white, and blue shirt, point to the right. Right: a crouching photographer facing forward with his camera in front of his face]] | ||
In 2004, | Lowe posted a 17–7 record despite a 4.47 ERA in 2003. He recorded an improbable save in the deciding Game 5 of the [[2003 American League Division Series|2003 AL Division Series]] (ALDS), entering the game with a one-run lead and [[2003 Oakland Athletics season|Oakland Athletics]] runners on first and second base with none out. He ended the game with a sacrifice bunt and two strikeouts, allowing one walk.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTTcgyHwk2o |title=2003 ALDS Gm5: Lowe comes up big with scoreless frame |date=2018-11-26 |publisher=MLB |access-date=2025-11-12 |via=YouTube}}</ref> | ||
In 2004, Lowe finished 14–12 with a 5.42 ERA in 33 starts. During the [[2004 Major League Baseball postseason|postseason]], he rebounded with a 3–0 record and 1.86 ERA in four games, three of them starts. He was the winner in the final game of all three postseason series—the [[2004 American League Division Series|ALDS]] against the [[Anaheim Angels]] (pitching in relief), the [[2004 American League Championship Series|AL Championship Series]] against the [[New York Yankees]], and the [[2004 World Series|World Series]] against the [[St. Louis Cardinals]]. In the World Series, he threw shutout ball for 7 innings in Game 4, to defeat [[Jason Marquis]], as the Red Sox won their first championship in 86 years.<ref>{{cite news|last=Curry|first=Jack|title=Kiss That Curse Goodbye|work=[[The New York Times]]|date=October 28, 2004|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/28/sports/baseball/not-a-work-of-art-but-red-sox-finish-their-masterpiece.html?pagewanted=print|author-link=Jack Curry|access-date=August 12, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/playoffs/2004-10-27-ws-game4_x.htm | |||
|title=Finally! Red Sox win World Series|date=October 28, 2004|first=Mike|last=Dodd|work=USA Today |access-date=September 9, 2009}}</ref> | |title=Finally! Red Sox win World Series|date=October 28, 2004|first=Mike|last=Dodd|work=USA Today |access-date=September 9, 2009}}</ref> | ||
===Los Angeles Dodgers=== | ===Los Angeles Dodgers=== | ||
On January 11, 2005, Lowe signed a four-year, $36 million contract with the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1964844 |title=New ace has 52 wins in past 3 seasons |access-date=February 7, 2009|agency=Associated Press |date=January 13, 2005 |work=ESPN.com}}</ref> Despite his signing with a new team, Lowe wore a Red Sox uniform during the team's [[World Series ring]] ceremony on April 11, 2005, after already making a start for the Dodgers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Henson |first=Steve |date=2005-04-13 |title=He Wasn't About to Miss This |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2005-apr-13-sp-dodrep13-story.html |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> | |||
On January 11, 2005, Lowe | |||
On August 31 | On August 31, Lowe pitched an unusual one-hitter. After giving up a leadoff [[Single (baseball)|single]] to the Cubs' [[Jerry Hairston Jr.]], Lowe did not allow another Chicago hit, picking up a one-hit, two-[[Base on balls|walk]], 7–0 [[complete game]] victory while facing only 29 batters.[[File:Derek Lowe pitching.jpg|thumb|260px|Lowe pitching for the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]] in 2006.|alt=Derek Lowe pitching in a white Los Angeles Dogers uniform, with the third base umpire looking on from behind]]Lowe tied for the most wins in the National League (NL) in 2006, with 16.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nowlin |first=Bill |title=Derek Lowe |url=https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/derek-lowe/ |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=[[Society for American Baseball Research]]}}</ref> | ||
After being the opening day starter for the Dodgers for the last three years, in 2008 he was moved second in the [[Pitching rotation|rotation]], behind [[Brad Penny]]. Manager [[Joe Torre]] chose Lowe to start Game 1 of the [[2008 National League Championship Series|NL Championship Series]] against the [[Philadelphia Phillies]] on October 9. Lowe opened the game with five scoreless innings before allowing 3 runs in the sixth inning, taking the loss.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2008-10-10 |title=Dodgers deep-sixed in Game 1 loss to Phillies |url=https://mn1-zzweb.newscyclecloud.com/article/zz/20081010/news/810109770/ |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=Daily Breeze |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2008 National League Championship Series (NLCS) Game 1, Los Angeles Dodgers vs Philadelphia Phillies: October 9, 2008 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/PHI/PHI200810090.shtml |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=Baseball Reference}}</ref> | |||
[[National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum|Hall of Famer]] [[Greg Maddux]] was twice traded during a season in his 23-year career, both times to the Dodgers: first in 2006, then in his final season in 2008. Each time Maddux joined the Dodgers, Lowe performed better afterwards. Lowe indicated that Maddux helped him considerably; Maddux was often seen sitting next to him in the dugout, as Lowe was able to learn from the master hurler.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lowe drops duel to Cardinals |url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080524&content_id=2758686&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=la |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615132011/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080524&content_id=2758686&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=la |archive-date=June 15, 2011 |access-date=2012-08-12 |website=MLB.com}}</ref> | |||
===Atlanta Braves=== | ===Atlanta Braves=== | ||
Lowe agreed to a four-year, $60 million deal with the [[Atlanta Braves]] during the 2008–09 offseason.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090115&content_id=3745784&vkey=pr_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090125034934/http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090115&content_id=3745784&vkey=pr_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 25, 2009 |title=Braves agree to terms with pitcher Derek Lowe on four-year contract |publisher=Atlanta.braves.mlb.com |date=January 15, 2009 |access-date=July 21, 2010}}</ref> | Lowe agreed to a four-year, $60 million deal with the [[Atlanta Braves]] during the 2008–09 offseason.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090115&content_id=3745784&vkey=pr_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090125034934/http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090115&content_id=3745784&vkey=pr_atl&fext=.jsp&c_id=atl |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 25, 2009 |title=Braves agree to terms with pitcher Derek Lowe on four-year contract |publisher=Atlanta.braves.mlb.com |date=January 15, 2009 |access-date=July 21, 2010}}</ref> He was named the team's Opening Day starter.<ref>{{Cite news |last=O'Brien |first=David |date=March 1, 2010 |title=Lowe keeps opening assignment in perspective |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/baseball/lowe-keeps-opening-assignment-perspective/uDZqDGBSwcJ2ngpG8cSfqN/ |access-date=2025-11-12 |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |issn=1539-7459}}</ref> Lowe beat the Phillies 4–1 on Opening Night, going 8 innings and giving up just 2 hits and 0 runs.<ref>{{cite web |last=O'Brien |first=David |date=January 13, 2009 |title=Lowe agrees to $60 million deal with Braves |url=http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2009/01/13/braves_lowe.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730202641/http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/braves/stories/2009/01/13/braves_lowe.html |archive-date=July 30, 2012 |access-date=July 21, 2010 |publisher=AJC}}</ref> | ||
In 2010, Lowe was one of only two active players, along with [[Liván Hernández]], to have played 12 or more seasons without going on the [[disabled list]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogers |first=Carroll |url=http://www.ajc.com/services/content/printedition/2009/05/01/brlowe0501.html | | In 2010, Lowe was one of only two active players, along with [[Liván Hernández]], to have played 12 or more seasons without going on the [[disabled list]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogers |first=Carroll |date=May 1, 2009 |title=Lowe aces his routine, sees results |url=http://www.ajc.com/services/content/printedition/2009/05/01/brlowe0501.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629072653/http://www.ajc.com/services/content/printedition/2009/05/01/brlowe0501.html |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |access-date=July 21, 2010 |publisher=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}}</ref> | ||
Despite having a mediocre season until August, Lowe was exceptional in September 2010, with a 5–0 record, a 1.77 ERA, 29 strikeouts while walking only three batters, which helped the Braves secure a playoff berth as the NL Wild Card, | Despite having a mediocre season until August, Lowe was exceptional in September 2010, with a 5–0 record, a 1.77 ERA, 29 strikeouts while walking only three batters, which helped the Braves secure a playoff berth as the NL [[Major League Baseball Wild Card|Wild Card]], one game ahead of the [[2010 San Diego Padres season|San Diego Padres]] at the end of the regular season. For this, Lowe was named [[Major League Baseball Pitcher of the Month Award|NL Pitcher of the Month.]]<ref>{{cite web|last=Hall|first=James|title=Lowe, Price named Pitchers of Month|url=http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101004&content_id=15412796&vkey=news_atl&c_id=atl|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009221733/http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101004&content_id=15412796&vkey=news_atl&c_id=atl|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 9, 2012|work=MLB.com|access-date=August 6, 2011}}</ref> Lowe lost Games 1 and 4 of the [[2010 National League Division Series|NL Division Series]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Derek Lowe Postseason Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=lowede01&t=p&post=1 |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=[[Baseball Reference]]}}</ref> | ||
On August 31, 2011, Lowe hit his first home run (in 425 at-bats) off [[John Lannan]] of the [[Washington Nationals]].<ref>{{cite web |last=O'Brien |first=David |url=http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/derek-lowe-homers-craig-1153200.html |title=Derek Lowe homers, Craig Kimbrel gets record save |publisher= | On August 31, 2011, Lowe hit his first home run (in 425 at-bats) off [[John Lannan]] of the [[Washington Nationals]].<ref>{{cite web |last=O'Brien |first=David |url=http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/derek-lowe-homers-craig-1153200.html |title=Derek Lowe homers, Craig Kimbrel gets record save |publisher=AJC |date=2011-09-01 |access-date=2012-08-12 |archive-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529073406/http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/derek-lowe-homers-craig-1153200.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> | ||
===Cleveland Indians=== | ===Cleveland Indians=== | ||
[[File:Derek Lowe on June 29, 2012.jpg|thumb | [[File:Derek Lowe on June 29, 2012.jpg|thumb|Lowe with Cleveland in 2012|alt=Derek Lowe pitching in a gray Cleveland uniform]] | ||
Following the 2011 season, the Braves traded Lowe to the [[Cleveland Indians]] for minor league left-handed relief pitcher Chris Jones. The Braves paid $10 million of Lowe's $15 million salary for the 2012 season.<ref>{{cite web|last=Beck|first=Jason|title=Tribe acquires veteran Lowe from Braves|url=http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111031&content_id=25850300&vkey=news_cle&c_id=cle|work=MLB.com|access-date=October 31, 2011|date=October 31, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111102062805/http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111031&content_id=25850300&vkey=news_cle&c_id=cle|archive-date=November 2, 2011|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> On May 15, | Following the 2011 season, the Braves traded Lowe to the [[Cleveland Indians]] for minor league left-handed relief pitcher Chris Jones. The Braves paid $10 million of Lowe's $15 million salary for the 2012 season.<ref>{{cite web|last=Beck|first=Jason|title=Tribe acquires veteran Lowe from Braves|url=http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111031&content_id=25850300&vkey=news_cle&c_id=cle|work=MLB.com|access-date=October 31, 2011|date=October 31, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111102062805/http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111031&content_id=25850300&vkey=news_cle&c_id=cle|archive-date=November 2, 2011|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> On May 15, in a road game versus the [[Minnesota Twins]], Lowe recorded his first shutout in seven years and also pitched a complete game in a 5–0 win, improving his season pitching record to 6–1. Lowe did not record a strikeout in the shutout, becoming the first pitcher to do so since 2002.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-05-15 |title=Indians 5, Twins 0: Derek Lowe throws shutout without a strikeout |url=https://www.news-herald.com/2012/05/15/indians-5-twins-0-derek-lowe-throws-shutout-without-a-strikeout/ |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=News-Herald |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> | ||
The Indians designated Lowe for assignment on August 1 to make room for [[Corey Kluber]]. Lowe was 8–10 with a 5.52 ERA in 21 starts and 119 innings pitched.<ref>{{cite news|url= | The Indians designated Lowe for assignment on August 1 to make room for [[Corey Kluber]]. Lowe was 8–10 with a 5.52 ERA in 21 starts and 119 innings pitched.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2012/08/tribes_antonetti_acta_ponderin.html|last=Hoynes|first=Paul|publisher=Cleveland.com|work=[[Plain Dealer]]|title=Derek Lowe designated for assignment by Tribe|date=1 August 2012|access-date=2 August 2012}}</ref> Cleveland released Lowe on August 10.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/indians-release-derek-lowe |title=Indians release Derek Lowe | HardballTalk |publisher=Hardballtalk.nbcsports.com |date=2012-08-09 |access-date=2012-08-13}}</ref> | ||
===New York Yankees=== | ===New York Yankees=== | ||
[[File:Derek Lowe on September 6, 2012.jpg|180px|thumb|left|Lowe with the New York Yankees]] | [[File:Derek Lowe on September 6, 2012.jpg|180px|thumb|left|Lowe with the New York Yankees|alt=Derek Lowe pitching in a gray New York Yankees uniform]] | ||
On August 12, 2012, Lowe signed with the [[New York Yankees]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120811&content_id=36519864&vkey=news_nyy&c_id=nyy |title=Yankees sign veteran right-hander Derek Lowe | | On August 12, 2012, Lowe signed with the [[New York Yankees]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120811&content_id=36519864&vkey=news_nyy&c_id=nyy |title=Yankees sign veteran right-hander Derek Lowe |work=MLB.com |access-date=2012-10-10 |archive-date=February 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221223503/http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120811&content_id=36519864&vkey=news_nyy&c_id=nyy |url-status=dead }}</ref> In his Yankees debut on August 13, he pitched four scoreless innings in relief, recording his first regular season save since 2001.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120813&content_id=36616356¬ebook_id=36622522&vkey=notebook_nyy&c_id=nyy |title=Given fresh start, Lowe makes immediate impact |work=MLB.com |access-date=2012-10-10 |archive-date=February 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221223403/http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120813&content_id=36616356¬ebook_id=36622522&vkey=notebook_nyy&c_id=nyy |url-status=dead }}</ref> Lowe had a 3.04 ERA in 17 appearances, earning him a spot on the team's postseason roster. The Yankees defeated the [[Baltimore Orioles]] in the [[2012 American League Division Series|ALDS]]<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.boston.com/sports/new-york-yankees/2012/10/14/derek-lowe-revels-in-postseason-return/| title = Derek Lowe revels in postseason return| date = October 14, 2012}} </ref> but lost to the [[Detroit Tigers]] in the [[2012 American League Championship Series|ALCS]]. In his final postseason, Lowe allowed 3 runs in two innings in three relief appearances.<ref name=":1" /> He became a free agent after the season ended. | ||
===Texas Rangers=== | ===Texas Rangers=== | ||
On March 6, 2013, Lowe signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers.<ref> | On March 6, 2013, Lowe signed a minor league contract with the [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-03-07 |title=RHP Derek Lowe, Rangers agree on minor league deal |url=https://apnews.com/tx-state-wire-cb58236edaed48cdb4b19a55f3526f2d |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=AP News}}</ref> He made the team's major league roster and was with the Rangers on opening day.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gleeman |first=Aaron |author-link=Aaron Gleeman |date=March 26, 2013 |title=Derek Lowe makes the Rangers as a middle reliever |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/derek-lowe-makes-the-rangers-as-a-middle-reliever |access-date=November 12, 2025 |publisher=NBC Sports}}</ref> He was [[designated for assignment]] on May 20.<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Rangers recall Josh Lindblom; Derek Lowe designated for assignment |date=May 20, 2013 |publisher=[[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]] |url=https://www.mlb.com/rangers/news/rangers-recall-josh-lindblom-derek-lowe-designated-for-assignment/c-48082874 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140924040636/http://m.rangers.mlb.com/news/article/48082874/rangers-recall-josh-lindblom-derek-lowe-designated-for-assignment |archive-date=September 24, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=May 20, 2013 |title=Rangers turn Lowe loose to make room for Lindblom |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/rangers-turn-lowe-loose-to-make-room-for-lindblom/ |work=CBS News |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> | ||
On June 9, 2013, | === Retirement === | ||
On June 9, 2013, sportswriter [[Nick Cafardo]] reported that Lowe appeared to have retired. According to Cafardo, Lowe told his agent, [[Scott Boras]], not to approach any teams to gauge their interest.<ref>[[Nick Cafardo]], Boston Globe, [https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2013/06/08/four-baseball-preseason-favorites-are-duds/ydJk7GHgSnyZCOLjJVJb8I/story.html Four of MLB's Preseason Favorites Are Duds], June 9, 2013</ref> Lowe officially announced his retirement July 18.<ref>Zach Stoloff, NESN, [https://nesn.com/2013/07/derek-lowe-announces-retirement-is-officially-no-longer-going-to-play-the-game/ Derek Lowe Announces Retirement], July 18, 2013</ref> | |||
Lowe | Lowe was eligible to be elected into the [[National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum|Hall of Fame]] in [[2019 Baseball Hall of Fame balloting|2019 but received no votes]], thus dropping off of future ballots.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Complete 2019 Hall of Fame election results |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/complete-2019-hall-of-fame-election-results-c302999710 |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=MLB.com}}</ref> | ||
==Scouting report== | ==Scouting report== | ||
Lowe was a [[Sinker (baseball)|sinkerball]] pitcher, throwing the pitch over 60% of the time. He also threw a [[fastball]], [[curveball]] and a [[Slider (baseball)|slider]].<ref>Robert | Lowe was a [[Sinker (baseball)|sinkerball]] pitcher, throwing the pitch over 60% of the time. He also threw a [[fastball]], [[curveball]], and a [[Slider (baseball)|slider]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pike |first=Robert |date=March 24, 2013 |title=Derek Lowe and the Sinker |url=http://shutdowninning.com/5/post/2013/03/derek-lowe-and-the-sinker.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130630075937/http://shutdowninning.com/5/post/2013/03/derek-lowe-and-the-sinker.html |archive-date=June 30, 2013 |website=Shut Down Inning}}</ref><ref>Kevin Sipe, Bleacher Report, [https://bleacherreport.com/articles/658071-derek-lowe-how-the-atlanta-braves-pitcher-went-from-has-been-to-ace Derek Lowe: How the Atlanta Braves' Pitcher Went From Has-Been to Ace], April 8, 2011</ref> | ||
==Personal life== | ==Personal life== | ||
Lowe has advocated for various causes to fight cancer. | Lowe has advocated for various causes to fight cancer. Himself a survivor of [[squamous cell carcinoma]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20030214&content_id=200348&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos |title=Lowe now 'nose' to use sunscreen |website=Boston Red Sox |publisher=MLB |date=February 14, 2003 |access-date=July 21, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606231750/http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20030214&content_id=200348&vkey=news_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos |archive-date=June 6, 2011 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Lowe has worked with the Melanoma Foundation of New England,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.melanomafoundationne.org/public/pdf/Newsletter_Spring04.pdf |title=News & Events – MMF Newsletter |access-date=July 21, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110727075311/http://www.melanomafoundationne.org/public/pdf/Newsletter_Spring04.pdf |archive-date=July 27, 2011 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention,<ref>{{cite web |author=Browne |first=Ian |date=June 23, 2004 |title=Notes: Offense taking shape |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20040623&content_id=778216&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=null |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023143901/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20040623&content_id=778216&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=null |archive-date=2013-10-23 |access-date=2012-08-12 |work=MLB.com}}</ref> and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/254012-derek-lowe-urges-men-to-get-prostate-cancer-checkups |title=Derek Lowe Urges Men To Get Prostate Cancer Checkups |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=September 13, 2009 |access-date=July 21, 2010}}</ref> Lowe was diagnosed with [[attention deficit disorder]] and received permission to treat it with [[Adderall]], a substance normally banned by Major League Baseball, but with exceptions allowed on a case-by-case basis.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2397789 |title=Dodgers' Lowe has ADD, allowed to take banned drug – MLB – ESPN |work=ESPN.com |date=April 5, 2006 |access-date=July 21, 2010}}</ref> | ||
Lowe was charged with fourth-degree [[domestic violence]] by [[King County, Washington|King County]] police in 1997 after his girlfriend claimed that he struck her. Lowe was released on $1,000 [[bail|bond]] the next day, whereupon he allegedly violated a no-contact order by returning to her home shortly thereafter.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.s-t.com/daily/08-97/08-23-97/c01sp114.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990129064358/http://www.s-t.com/daily/08-97/08-23-97/c01sp114.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 29, 1999|title=Another problem for Sox|first=Bob|last=Dick|publisher=[[The New Bedford Standard-Times]]|date=August 23, 1997|access-date=June 24, 2006}}</ref> Lowe entered counseling as a result.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/projo/access/13646789.html?dids=13646789:13646789&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+23%2C+1997&author=BOB+DICK+Journal-Bulletin+Sports+Writer&pub=The+Providence+Journal&desc=Pawsox%27s+Lowe+in+counseling+for+domestic+violence&pqatl=google |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131153157/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/projo/access/13646789.html?dids=13646789:13646789&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+23,+1997&author=BOB+DICK+Journal-Bulletin+Sports+Writer&pub=The+Providence+Journal&desc=Pawsox's+Lowe+in+counseling+for+domestic+violence&pqatl=google |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |title=Pawsox's Lowe in counseling for domestic violence |newspaper=The Providence Journal |date=1997-08-23 |access-date=2012-08-13}} {{Subscription required|date=August 2012}}</ref> | Lowe was charged with fourth-degree [[domestic violence]] by [[King County, Washington|King County]] police in 1997 after his girlfriend claimed that he struck her. Lowe was released on $1,000 [[bail|bond]] the next day, whereupon he allegedly violated a no-contact order by returning to her home shortly thereafter.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.s-t.com/daily/08-97/08-23-97/c01sp114.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990129064358/http://www.s-t.com/daily/08-97/08-23-97/c01sp114.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 29, 1999|title=Another problem for Sox|first=Bob|last=Dick|publisher=[[The New Bedford Standard-Times]]|date=August 23, 1997|access-date=June 24, 2006}}</ref> Lowe entered counseling as a result.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/projo/access/13646789.html?dids=13646789:13646789&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+23%2C+1997&author=BOB+DICK+Journal-Bulletin+Sports+Writer&pub=The+Providence+Journal&desc=Pawsox%27s+Lowe+in+counseling+for+domestic+violence&pqatl=google |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131153157/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/projo/access/13646789.html?dids=13646789:13646789&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Aug+23,+1997&author=BOB+DICK+Journal-Bulletin+Sports+Writer&pub=The+Providence+Journal&desc=Pawsox's+Lowe+in+counseling+for+domestic+violence&pqatl=google |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |title=Pawsox's Lowe in counseling for domestic violence |newspaper=The Providence Journal |date=1997-08-23 |access-date=2012-08-13}} {{Subscription required|date=August 2012}}</ref> | ||
Carolyn Hughes, who covered the Dodgers for [[Bally Sports West|Fox Sports West]], was suspended pending an investigation into a potential relationship between her and Lowe during his tenure with the Dodgers. Shortly thereafter, Lowe filed for divorce from Trinka Lowe, his wife of seven years | Carolyn Hughes, who covered the Dodgers for [[Bally Sports West|Fox Sports West]], was suspended pending an investigation into a potential relationship between her and Lowe during his tenure with the Dodgers. Shortly thereafter, Lowe filed for divorce from Trinka Lowe, his wife of seven years. They had three children together.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SJ&s_site=mercurynews&p_multi=SJ&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=11037248E81E4F38&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |newspaper=San Jose Mercury News |date=March 4, 2006 |page=2D |title=Dodgers' Lowe gets personal about future |access-date=2012-08-12}} {{Subscription required|date=August 2012}}</ref> Hughes's husband also filed for divorce. In the aftermath, Hughes ended her broadcasting career, and she and Lowe continued their relationship. They were married on December 13, 2008 at [[The Henry Ford]] in Dearborn, Michigan.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gurnick |first=Ken |date=2012-06-19 |title=Lowe unlikely to return to Dodgers | MLB.com: News |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081209&content_id=3708675&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023143904/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081209&content_id=3708675&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp |archive-date=2013-10-23 |access-date=2012-08-12 |website=MLB.com}}</ref> | ||
On April 28, 2011, Lowe was arrested and charged with [[driving under the influence]], [[reckless driving]] and improper lane change after [[drag racing]] down an Atlanta street. The trooper who stopped him detected an odor of alcohol and administered a field sobriety test, which resulted in Lowe's arrest. Lowe declined to take a breath test and was released after posting bail. The driver of the other vehicle was not charged and was released.<ref>{{ | On April 28, 2011, Lowe was arrested and charged with [[driving under the influence]], [[reckless driving]], and improper lane change after [[drag racing]] down an Atlanta street. The trooper who stopped him detected an odor of alcohol and administered a field sobriety test, which resulted in Lowe's arrest. Lowe declined to take a breath test and was released after posting bail. The driver of the other vehicle was not charged and was released.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Newberry |first=Paul |date=2011-04-29 |title=Police: Braves' Lowe racing before charged with DUI |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/nl/braves/2011-04-29-derek-lowe-dui-braves-roger-mcdowell_N.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130205121552/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/nl/braves/2011-04-29-derek-lowe-dui-braves-roger-mcdowell_N.htm |archive-date=February 5, 2013 |access-date=2012-08-12 |work=USA Today |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> On May 26, Atlanta Solicitor-General Raines Carter dismissed the DUI and reckless driving charges, and Lowe entered a [[nolo contendere]] (no contest) plea to violating basic motor vehicle rules.<ref>{{cite web|last=Boone |first=Christian |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/baseball/dui-reckless-driving-charges-against-derek-lowe-dropped/nd9lhHx9V3NAo6yE0jCNQK/ |title=DUI, reckless-driving charges against Derek Lowe dropped |publisher=AJC |date=2011-05-26 |access-date=2012-08-12}}</ref> | ||
Lowe finished second to [[Mark Mulder]] in the July 2017 American Century | Lowe finished second to [[Mark Mulder]] in the July 2017 [[American Century Championship]] celebrity golf tournament.<ref name="i366">{{cite web | agency=Associated Press | title=Ex-Michigan State pitcher Mark Mulder wins celebrity golf title | website=Lansing State Journal | date=2017-07-16 | url=https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/sports/2017/07/16/mark-mulder-wins-celebrity-golf-title/483279001/ | access-date=2025-01-25}}</ref> | ||
Lowe won the January 2022 [[ | Lowe won the January 2022 [[LPGA Tournament of Champions]] Celebrity Division tournament, defeating [[Annika Sörenstam]] in a playoff after both scored 138 points.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kelly |first=Todd |date=2022-01-23 |title=Derek Lowe edges Annika Sorenstam in playoff to win celebrity division at LPGA's Tournament of Champions |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/derek-lowe-edges-annika-sorenstam-205304571.html |access-date=2025-11-12 |website=Yahoo Sports }}</ref> | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
| Line 154: | Line 153: | ||
{{NL wins champions}} | {{NL wins champions}} | ||
{{AL saves champions}} | {{AL saves champions}} | ||
{{Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame}} | {{Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame}}{{DEFAULTSORT:Lowe, Derek}} | ||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lowe, Derek}} | |||
[[Category:1973 births]] | [[Category:1973 births]] | ||
[[Category:Living people]] | [[Category:Living people]] | ||
Latest revision as of 12:34, 1 December 2025
Template:Short description Script error: No such module "about".Template:Use mdy datesTemplate:Short description Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Derek Christopher Lowe (born June 1, 1973) is an American former professional baseball pitcher. During his career, he played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, and Texas Rangers.
Lowe made his MLB debut in 1997 with Seattle. With the Red Sox, he was an All-Star in 2000 and 2002 and threw a no-hitter in 2002. In the 2004 postseason, he had a 3–0 win–loss record as he helped Boston win its first World Series championship in 86 years.
Early years
Lowe attended Edsel Ford High School in Dearborn, Michigan, where he was a four-sport letterman in baseball, golf, soccer, and basketball. He was an All-League honoree in all four sports and was a first-team All-State in basketball. Lowe committed to attend Eastern Michigan University on a basketball scholarship.[1][2]
Baseball career
Seattle Mariners
Minor leagues
The Seattle Mariners drafted Lowe in the eighth round of the 1991 MLB draft. He signed with the Mariners on June 7, 1991, forgoing his college scholarship.[1] The Mariners immediately assigned him to their rookie league team, where he went 5–3 with a 2.41 earned run average (ERA) in 12 starts.
He spent the next several years advancing through the minor leagues, pitching for the Class A Short Season Bellingham Mariners in 1992, Single-A Riverside Pilots in 1993, then spending two years in Double-A, with the Jacksonville Suns in 1994 and Port City Roosters in 1995. He pitched for Port City the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers in 1996. He was a starting pitcher in the minors. He also pitched in the Arizona Fall League in 1993. Baseball America ranked him as a top 100 prospect in 1993 and 1994.[3][2]
Major leagues
Lowe made his major league debut on April 26, 1997, working <templatestyles src="Fraction/styles.css" />3+2⁄3 innings in relief against the Toronto Blue Jays. He made his first major league start on May 27 against the Minnesota Twins, giving up four runs in five innings. His first career win came on June 6 against the Detroit Tigers, pitching <templatestyles src="Fraction/styles.css" />5+1⁄3 innings and giving up 3 runs in the Mariners' 6–3 victory.[4]
Seattle, however, was desperate for immediate bullpen help[5] and traded Lowe and catcher Jason Varitek to the Boston Red Sox for reliever Heathcliff Slocumb.[6][7][1][8] The trade on July 31, orchestrated by Mariners' general manager Woody Woodward, is considered one of the worst trades in franchise history.[9][10][11]
Boston Red Sox
Lowe compiled a 5–15 record over his first two seasons, during which he split time starting and relieving, but came into his own in 1999 after being transferred into the closer's role, finishing the season with 15 saves and a 2.63 ERA.[1]
Lowe had his best season as a closer in 2000 when he led the American League (AL) with 42 saves, to go along with a 2.56 ERA.[1] Despite recording 24 saves early in the 2001 season, Lowe lost the closer's job soon after the trading deadline when the Red Sox acquired Ugueth Urbina.[1] Lowe was left in limbo, demoted to various setup jobs in the bullpen. Instead he asked manager Joe Kerrigan to return him to the starting rotation; Kerrigan agreed, and Lowe pitched 16 innings as a starter before the end of the season.[1] The following year, 2002, was Lowe's coming out party as a starter, as he posted a 21–8 record to go with a 2.58 ERA, finishing third in Cy Young Award voting behind Barry Zito and Lowe's teammate Pedro Martínez. Lowe no-hit the Tampa Bay Devil Rays at Fenway Park on April 27 that year, becoming the first pitcher to do so at Fenway Park since Dave Morehead in 1965. Lowe faced just one batter over the minimum in the game; only a third inning walk to Brent Abernathy separated Lowe from a perfect game. Additionally, Lowe was the starting pitcher for the AL in the All-Star Game that year.
Lowe posted a 17–7 record despite a 4.47 ERA in 2003. He recorded an improbable save in the deciding Game 5 of the 2003 AL Division Series (ALDS), entering the game with a one-run lead and Oakland Athletics runners on first and second base with none out. He ended the game with a sacrifice bunt and two strikeouts, allowing one walk.[12]
In 2004, Lowe finished 14–12 with a 5.42 ERA in 33 starts. During the postseason, he rebounded with a 3–0 record and 1.86 ERA in four games, three of them starts. He was the winner in the final game of all three postseason series—the ALDS against the Anaheim Angels (pitching in relief), the AL Championship Series against the New York Yankees, and the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. In the World Series, he threw shutout ball for 7 innings in Game 4, to defeat Jason Marquis, as the Red Sox won their first championship in 86 years.[13][14]
Los Angeles Dodgers
On January 11, 2005, Lowe signed a four-year, $36 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.[15] Despite his signing with a new team, Lowe wore a Red Sox uniform during the team's World Series ring ceremony on April 11, 2005, after already making a start for the Dodgers.[16]
On August 31, Lowe pitched an unusual one-hitter. After giving up a leadoff single to the Cubs' Jerry Hairston Jr., Lowe did not allow another Chicago hit, picking up a one-hit, two-walk, 7–0 complete game victory while facing only 29 batters.
Lowe tied for the most wins in the National League (NL) in 2006, with 16.[17]
After being the opening day starter for the Dodgers for the last three years, in 2008 he was moved second in the rotation, behind Brad Penny. Manager Joe Torre chose Lowe to start Game 1 of the NL Championship Series against the Philadelphia Phillies on October 9. Lowe opened the game with five scoreless innings before allowing 3 runs in the sixth inning, taking the loss.[18][19]
Hall of Famer Greg Maddux was twice traded during a season in his 23-year career, both times to the Dodgers: first in 2006, then in his final season in 2008. Each time Maddux joined the Dodgers, Lowe performed better afterwards. Lowe indicated that Maddux helped him considerably; Maddux was often seen sitting next to him in the dugout, as Lowe was able to learn from the master hurler.[20]
Atlanta Braves
Lowe agreed to a four-year, $60 million deal with the Atlanta Braves during the 2008–09 offseason.[21] He was named the team's Opening Day starter.[22] Lowe beat the Phillies 4–1 on Opening Night, going 8 innings and giving up just 2 hits and 0 runs.[23]
In 2010, Lowe was one of only two active players, along with Liván Hernández, to have played 12 or more seasons without going on the disabled list.[24]
Despite having a mediocre season until August, Lowe was exceptional in September 2010, with a 5–0 record, a 1.77 ERA, 29 strikeouts while walking only three batters, which helped the Braves secure a playoff berth as the NL Wild Card, one game ahead of the San Diego Padres at the end of the regular season. For this, Lowe was named NL Pitcher of the Month.[25] Lowe lost Games 1 and 4 of the NL Division Series.[26]
On August 31, 2011, Lowe hit his first home run (in 425 at-bats) off John Lannan of the Washington Nationals.[27]
Cleveland Indians
Following the 2011 season, the Braves traded Lowe to the Cleveland Indians for minor league left-handed relief pitcher Chris Jones. The Braves paid $10 million of Lowe's $15 million salary for the 2012 season.[28] On May 15, in a road game versus the Minnesota Twins, Lowe recorded his first shutout in seven years and also pitched a complete game in a 5–0 win, improving his season pitching record to 6–1. Lowe did not record a strikeout in the shutout, becoming the first pitcher to do so since 2002.[29]
The Indians designated Lowe for assignment on August 1 to make room for Corey Kluber. Lowe was 8–10 with a 5.52 ERA in 21 starts and 119 innings pitched.[30] Cleveland released Lowe on August 10.[31]
New York Yankees
On August 12, 2012, Lowe signed with the New York Yankees.[32] In his Yankees debut on August 13, he pitched four scoreless innings in relief, recording his first regular season save since 2001.[33] Lowe had a 3.04 ERA in 17 appearances, earning him a spot on the team's postseason roster. The Yankees defeated the Baltimore Orioles in the ALDS[34] but lost to the Detroit Tigers in the ALCS. In his final postseason, Lowe allowed 3 runs in two innings in three relief appearances.[26] He became a free agent after the season ended.
Texas Rangers
On March 6, 2013, Lowe signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers.[35] He made the team's major league roster and was with the Rangers on opening day.[36] He was designated for assignment on May 20.[37][38]
Retirement
On June 9, 2013, sportswriter Nick Cafardo reported that Lowe appeared to have retired. According to Cafardo, Lowe told his agent, Scott Boras, not to approach any teams to gauge their interest.[39] Lowe officially announced his retirement July 18.[40]
Lowe was eligible to be elected into the Hall of Fame in 2019 but received no votes, thus dropping off of future ballots.[41]
Scouting report
Lowe was a sinkerball pitcher, throwing the pitch over 60% of the time. He also threw a fastball, curveball, and a slider.[42][43]
Personal life
Lowe has advocated for various causes to fight cancer. Himself a survivor of squamous cell carcinoma,[44] Lowe has worked with the Melanoma Foundation of New England,[45] the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention,[46] and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.[47] Lowe was diagnosed with attention deficit disorder and received permission to treat it with Adderall, a substance normally banned by Major League Baseball, but with exceptions allowed on a case-by-case basis.[48]
Lowe was charged with fourth-degree domestic violence by King County police in 1997 after his girlfriend claimed that he struck her. Lowe was released on $1,000 bond the next day, whereupon he allegedly violated a no-contact order by returning to her home shortly thereafter.[49] Lowe entered counseling as a result.[50]
Carolyn Hughes, who covered the Dodgers for Fox Sports West, was suspended pending an investigation into a potential relationship between her and Lowe during his tenure with the Dodgers. Shortly thereafter, Lowe filed for divorce from Trinka Lowe, his wife of seven years. They had three children together.[51] Hughes's husband also filed for divorce. In the aftermath, Hughes ended her broadcasting career, and she and Lowe continued their relationship. They were married on December 13, 2008 at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan.[52]
On April 28, 2011, Lowe was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, and improper lane change after drag racing down an Atlanta street. The trooper who stopped him detected an odor of alcohol and administered a field sobriety test, which resulted in Lowe's arrest. Lowe declined to take a breath test and was released after posting bail. The driver of the other vehicle was not charged and was released.[53] On May 26, Atlanta Solicitor-General Raines Carter dismissed the DUI and reckless driving charges, and Lowe entered a nolo contendere (no contest) plea to violating basic motor vehicle rules.[54]
Lowe finished second to Mark Mulder in the July 2017 American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament.[55]
Lowe won the January 2022 LPGA Tournament of Champions Celebrity Division tournament, defeating Annika Sörenstam in a playoff after both scored 138 points.[56]
See also
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- List of Major League Baseball annual saves leaders
- List of Major League Baseball annual wins leaders
- List of Major League Baseball no-hitters
References
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- ↑ Nick Cafardo, Boston Globe, Four of MLB's Preseason Favorites Are Duds, June 9, 2013
- ↑ Zach Stoloff, NESN, Derek Lowe Announces Retirement, July 18, 2013
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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- ↑ Kevin Sipe, Bleacher Report, Derek Lowe: How the Atlanta Braves' Pitcher Went From Has-Been to Ace, April 8, 2011
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External links
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