Closer John Smoltz records his 40th save in the 114th game of the Braves’ schedule, making it the earliest point in a season a relief pitcher has reached that mark. Lee Smith of the Cardinals accomplished the feat in his 117th game in 1993, and White Sox closer Bobby Thigpen turned the trick in 118 games en route to setting the major league record with 57 saves in 1990.

This Day In Baseball

On August 8, 2002 — Closer John Smoltz records his 40th save in the 114th game of the Braves’ schedule, making it the earliest point in a season a relief pitcher has reached that mark. Lee Smith of the Cardinals accomplished the feat in his 117th game in 1993, and White Sox closer Bobby Thigpen turned the trick in 118 games en route to setting the major league record with 57 saves in 1990.

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