What Happened to Texas Rangers David Clyde?

By Oliver Wiener December 11, 2023 21:30

David Clyde, the former left-handed Major League Baseball pitcher, is often remembered for both his promising start and the cautionary tale of rushing young talent into the major leagues. As the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1973, Clyde's career took an unexpected turn. This article delves into the rise and fall of David Clyde, exploring the factors that contributed to his success and the challenges he faced along the way.

The Early Years of David Clyde

David Eugene Clyde was born on April 22, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was highly regarded as a young player and gained national attention during his high school career. Scouts were drawn to his exceptional pitching skills, and Clyde's talent drew comparisons to legendary pitcher Sandy Koufax.

The Rise to the Major Leagues

In 1973, the Texas Rangers selected Clyde as the first overall pick in the MLB draft. At the age of 18, he made his debut in the major leagues, becoming one of the few high school pitchers to achieve such a feat. His arrival brought a surge of excitement and increased attendance to the struggling Rangers franchise, preventing potential bankruptcy.

Promising Start and Injuries

Clyde's debut in the major leagues was nothing short of spectacular. In front of a sellout crowd, he won his first start against the Minnesota Twins, showcasing his immense potential. However, injuries plagued Clyde's career, and he faced setbacks due to arm and shoulder troubles. These injuries ultimately derailed his path to success and cut his career short at the age of 26.

Reflections on the Career

Despite the challenges he faced, Clyde remains grateful for the opportunities he had with the Texas Rangers. He recognizes that his career could have been more successful if not for the injuries, but he holds no bitterness towards how things turned out. Clyde acknowledges that the experience of being rushed into the major leagues at a young age taught baseball a valuable lesson in developing talent instead of rushing it.

Life After Baseball

After retiring from professional baseball, Clyde joined his family's lumber business. He currently serves as the vice president of the company. While his baseball career may have ended prematurely, Clyde continues to stay connected to the sport. He still throws balls to kids he works with and would support his own sons if they were drafted by a big-league club.

The Legacy of David Clyde

David Clyde's story serves as a cautionary tale for the risks associated with bringing up young players too soon. His experience prompted changes in the way baseball organizations develop and nurture young talent, focusing on their long-term success rather than immediate results. Though his career may not have reached the heights initially anticipated, Clyde's impact on the Texas Rangers and the sport as a whole cannot be understated.

David Clyde's journey from high school phenom to major league pitcher was filled with both triumph and adversity. While injuries may have derailed his career, Clyde's legacy lives on as a reminder of the importance of nurturing young talent and prioritizing their long-term development. Despite the challenges he faced, Clyde remains grateful for the opportunities he had and continues to contribute to the sport he loves.