Ozzie Smith Biography

Osborne Earl Smith, born on December 26, 1954, is an American former professional baseball player. Nicknamed the Wizard of Oz, he played shortstop for the San Diego Padres and St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball. Renowned for his acrobatic athletic ability, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players of all time, winning the National League Gold Glove Award for defensive play at shortstop for 13 consecutive seasons. Drafted as an amateur player by the Padres, he made his major league debut in 1978. He won his first Gold Glove Award in 1980 and made his first All-Star Game appearance in 1981. Upon joining the Cardinals, he helped the team win the 1982 World Series. He continued to earn Gold Gloves and All-Star appearances annually until 1993.