TTM Stats
- Sent: 5/21/2022 | Received: 6/10/2022 | 19 Days
- ’87 Topps, ’88 Topps, ’91 Topps, ’92 Leaf, ’92 Upper Deck
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 12/27/2022 | Received: 1/11/2023 | 14 Days
- ’87 Donruss, ’87 Topps, ’88 Donruss, ’92 Donruss, ’93 Topps Stadium Club, ’94 Pinnacle
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 12/26/2023 | Received: 2/1/2024 | 35 Days
- ’86 Topps Traded, ’87 Leaf, ’88 Fleer, ’88 Score (2), ’89 Topps
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 9/23/2024 | Received: 10/28/2024 | 35 Days
- ’87 Topps, ’91 Donruss, ’91 Score, ’91 Topps, ’92 Upper Deck
- Address: Home Address (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Mark Eichhorn’s career in Major League Baseball is a story of perseverance, reinvention, and success. Known for his unique submarine pitching style and ability to baffle hitters, Eichhorn carved out a niche for himself as one of the most effective relievers of the 1980s and early 1990s. His journey through baseball showcases the value of adaptability and determination, making him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the game.
Mark Anthony Eichhorn was born on November 21, 1960, in San Jose, California. From a young age, Eichhorn excelled on the baseball field, showing promise as a pitcher with an unorthodox delivery. After time at from Cabrillo College, he was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2nd round of the 1979 MLB Draft. Eichhorn began his professional career in the Blue Jays’ minor league system, where his sidearm delivery stood out. While he initially struggled with injuries and control, his unique style kept hitters off balance, earning him a reputation as a promising prospect.
Eichhorn made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on August 30, 1982, but his early outings were inconsistent. Over the next couple of seasons, injuries and control issues hindered his progress, and he spent significant time in the minors. Determined to continue playing, he refined his submarine delivery, which would become the key to his success.
Eichhorn rejoined the Blue Jays in 1986, and that season marked the turning point of his career. As a reliever, his newly honed submarine delivery baffled hitters, leading to one of the best seasons ever by a relief pitcher. That season he posted a stellar 1.72 ERA in 157 innings pitched over 69 games, with 166 strikeouts and only 45 walks. His incredible performance earned him votes for the AL Rookie of the Year Award as third runner-up and a 6th-place finish in Cy Young Award voting.
His ability to pitch multiple innings out of the bullpen made him invaluable to the Blue Jays, and his success solidified his role as one of the team’s most reliable relievers.
Eichhorn continued to pitch effectively for the Blue Jays over the next few seasons before moving to the Atlanta Braves in 1989. After a brief stint with the Braves, he joined the California Angels, where he reestablished himself as a dependable bullpen arm. With the Angels, Eichhorn was a key reliever from 1990 to 1992, providing stability and veteran leadership.
Eichhorn returned to the Blue Jays via a trade in 1992, where he contributed to one of the franchise’s greatest achievements. That year he was part of the Blue Jays team that won the World Series, defeating the Atlanta Braves in six games. Although his role in the postseason was limited, his contributions during the regular season helped the Blue Jays secure their championship run. He remained with the team during the 1993 season, helping the Blue Jays capture their second consecutive World Series title. Eichhorn’s ability to provide quality innings out of the bullpen made him a valuable asset on both championship teams.
Eichhorn retired after the 1997 season, despite not playing that year, finishing his career with a record of 48-43, a 3.00 ERA, and 32 saves over 563 games. He struck out 640 batters in 885.2 innings pitched and was known for his durability and consistency as a reliever.
After retiring, Eichhorn shifted his focus to coaching and mentoring young players. His experience as a pitcher who overcame adversity made him a valuable resource for aspiring athletes. He has also been involved in youth baseball programs, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game. Eichhorn remains a popular figure among Blue Jays fans, often appearing at alumni events and celebrations of the team’s championship years.
Mark Eichhorn’s career is a testament to the power of adaptation and perseverance. His submarine pitching style, combined with his relentless work ethic, allowed him to overcome early struggles and become one of the most effective relievers of his time.
Eichhorn’s contributions to the Toronto Blue Jays’ back-to-back World Series championships solidified his place in the team’s history. For fans and players alike, his story serves as an inspiration—a reminder that determination and innovation can lead to success, even in the face of adversity.
Today, Eichhorn is remembered not only as a standout reliever but also as a humble and hardworking player who left a lasting impact on the game he loves.
The Score on Mark Eichhorn – 6.5
Mark is such a great signer for the TTM community. He returns things quickly and always does a great job on your cards. His Blue Jays cards are always good, especially with a blue marker like he’s used on these. But I also love a card signed when the image is of a guy signing cards, like that 1992 Upper Deck card.
Thanks Mr. Eichhorn! I’m giving this a 6.5 overall.
This is my fifth successful return from him. To see the other returns, check out these posts:
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.