SI Vault Picking up The Pieces Ray Kennedy August 29, 1983
Detroit's former bullpen ace Kevin Saucier realized this spring
that he'd never pitch again—but he's not about to complain
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1983  Picking Up The Pieces   View CoverRead All Articles View
This Issue 1 2 3 4 5  Saucier responded by treating Detroit to
his best season ever in 1981, registering 13 saves and a 1.65
ERA. In a rating system introduced by SI, Saucier was tied for
fourth among all the relievers in the majors. In 49 innings he
gave up only one home run and 21 walks, and was the most
effective reliever in the majors when it came to retiring the
first batter he faced. High-stepping off the mound like an
ostrich in heat, hand-slapping and hugging every teammate within
reach after a save, the "Flying Saucier" became the hottest
attraction to land in town since Mark (The Bird) Fidrych flapped
into view in 1976.  Hot Sauce was also an A-l mover and shaker
in the dugout. On one occasion,