Mark Knudson

Astros

Knudson was drafted by the Houston Astros in the third round of the 1982 amateur draft out of Colorado State University. He made his debut with the club on July 8, 1985, and took a 7–4 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies. He won his first major league game on July 10 of the following season, also against the Phillies. On August 15, 1986 he and fellow pitcher Don August were traded to the Milwaukee Brewers for pitcher Danny Darwin.

Brewers

Knudson pitched as both a starter and long reliever for Milwaukee over the next five seasons, and in 1989 compiled an 8–5 record with a 3.35 ERA. In 1990, we won 10 games, including shut-outs against the Oakland A's and the Boston Red Sox.

After starting and gaining the victory on Opening Day 1991 against the Texas Rangers, Knudson contracted a virus that seriously affected his performance. He came down with a 103-degree fever and lost 10 pounds. He missed most of that season and was sent to Triple A Denver to finish the year, where he helped the Zephyrs win the American Association championship. He was designated for assignment at the end of the year; when he refused, the club released him outright.

Rockies

Knudson spent the 1992 season in the San Diego Padres organization, before signing with the expansion Colorado Rockies in 1993. He only pitched briefly for the team, however. After struggling and posting a 22.24 ERA in just four appearance, he permanently retired from the game.

Personal life

One week after he officially retired, Knudson's wife gave birth to triplets. A native of Denver, Knudson was the first hometown product to play for the Rockies. During his career, Knudson posted wins over three of the four members of the 4,000 strikeout club, Nolan Ryan, Roger Clemens and Randy Johnson.

Since retiring, Knudson has worked for the Rockies in Community Relations, and began a career in sports media. He has written a syndicated newspaper column since 1994, and is also a radio and television broadcaster.