Early Career
Stewart was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 16th round of the 1975 amateur draft as a catcher, but made his major league debut on September 22, 1978 as a pitcher. He did not find his niche in the major leagues until some time later. After returning to the minor leagues, he resurfaced in the Majors again in 1981. Teams were unsure how he would be best utilized, and Stewart split time starting and relieving for the Dodgers, Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies in the early to mid-1980s. His nickname at the time was Dave "Smoke" Stewart. In 1986, the Oakland Athletics signed him after he was released by the Phillies. Stewart successfully converted to a starting role with the A's, posting a 9-5 record.
Also in '86, Stewart developed a forkball to supplement his fastball and slider.
Read more about this topic: Dave Stewart (baseball)
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