Don Aase – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Donald William Aase, a right-handed pitcher who logged 13 seasons in Major League Baseball, made his mark with the Boston Red Sox, California Angels, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Mets. From 1977 to 1990, he bounced around a bit, but 1986 really stands out—he landed an All-Star reliever spot with the Orioles. Aase wrapped up his pro baseball run in 1990, finishing with 66 wins, 82 saves, and a 3.80 ERA in 411 games.

He never got to celebrate a World Series win, but teams leaned on him as a reliable bullpen arm throughout his career. Once he stepped away from the game, he shifted gears and ended up working as a senior project executive for a waterproof company. Even after retirement, Aase stayed connected to baseball, popping up on trading cards that showed off his career stats—Fleer and Score both featured him right after he left the mound.

Overview of Don Aase’s Major League Baseball Career

Don Aase spent thirteen years in the majors, from 1977 to 1990. He started out as a pitcher in the rotation but eventually found his groove as an effective reliever. He played for five teams, but his peak came as a closer with the Orioles.

Early Baseball Journey and Rookie Season

The Boston Red Sox drafted Aase in 1972, picking him in the sixth round, 136th overall. At 6’3″ and 190 pounds, this Orange, California native stood out early.

He climbed through the minors and debuted with the Red Sox in 1977. As a rookie, he flashed some potential, though, like most young pitchers, he had to learn fast against big-league hitters.

In Class A ball with the Winter Haven Red Sox, he led the team with 12 wins, showing off the talent that would eventually get him to the majors.

Teams Played For Throughout His Career

Aase played for five different big league teams. He started with Boston, then moved to the California Angels, where he spent a big chunk of his early career as a starter.

His stretch with the Orioles (1985-1988) was easily his best, especially 1986, when he took over as closer and made the All-Star team.

He wrapped up his career with the Mets in 1989 and the Dodgers in 1990. Every team that brought him in got a veteran presence and someone who could steady the bullpen.

Aase handled all sorts of roles, adapting to different teams and situations. That flexibility helped him stick around.

Transition from Starting Pitcher to Bullpen

One of the biggest shifts in Aase’s career came when he moved from starting pitcher to bullpen specialist. Early on with Boston and California, he took the ball every fifth day.

Over time, though, shorter stints out of the bullpen suited him better. He could throw harder and keep his command sharp.

The switch paid off, especially with the Orioles. In 1986, he thrived as closer, racking up saves and becoming one of the league’s most dependable relievers.

Aase’s success in relief really showed his mental toughness. Not everyone can handle the pressure of late-inning situations, but he seemed to thrive on it.

Retirement in 1990

Aase finished his pro baseball run in 1990 with the Dodgers, closing out thirteen seasons that spanned two decades. By then, plenty of stars from the ’70s and ’80s had started to step away from the game.

He pitched in hundreds of games, stacked up saves, and showed impressive longevity in a sport where injuries or slumps end careers quickly. Switching from starter to reliever definitely helped him stick around longer.

When he retired, Aase joined the ranks of players who’d watched baseball change a lot over their careers. He left a good impression on teams and fans wherever he went.

Key Teams: Highlights and Achievements

Don Aase suited up for five teams in his 13-year big league career, and he made an impact everywhere he went. He had some memorable performances, especially as a reliever.

California Angels Era

Aase landed with the California Angels in 1977 after a trade from the Red Sox. He spent six seasons (1977-1982) with the Angels, starting out in the rotation before shifting to the bullpen.

In 1978, he put up an 11-8 record as a starter, logging 159 innings. He looked like he might become a regular in the rotation.

By 1979, he helped the Angels to their first division title. Unfortunately, injuries started to creep in during his time in Anaheim.

A major elbow injury in 1982 led to Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for a while. That surgery really changed the course of his career, nudging him toward full-time relief work.

Baltimore Orioles and All-Star Season

Aase’s run with the Baltimore Orioles from 1985 to 1988 was the high point of his career. After recovering from surgery, he emerged as one of the American League’s top closers.

In 1986, he made the All-Star team after notching 34 saves before the break. That pace put him in the conversation for the single-season save record at the time.

He ended 1986 with 34 saves, tying for the AL lead. That year really cemented his reputation as a go-to reliever.

His numbers dipped in the following seasons, mostly due to arm fatigue and injuries, but that ’86 run remains one of the best by any Orioles reliever.

Boston Red Sox Contributions

The Boston Red Sox drafted Aase and watched him develop in their minor league system before trading him to the Angels.

After his Orioles stint, he returned to the Red Sox in 1989. He pitched in 45 games, working only out of the bullpen.

That year, he posted a 4.25 ERA in 53 innings. He wasn’t the same dominant force he’d been with Baltimore, but he brought some much-needed experience to the relief corps.

Manager Joe Morgan often turned to him for middle relief, trusting Aase’s steady hand even if the stats weren’t eye-popping.

Time with the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers

Aase’s career wound down with the New York Mets in 1989 and the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1990. He only pitched in 8 games for the Mets after a trade from Boston.

In 1990, he suited up for the Dodgers, making his final MLB appearances—44 games and a 4.97 ERA over 50.2 innings.

He finished his playing days back in California, his home state. By then, injuries had taken their toll, but it’s tough not to respect the way Aase stuck it out for 13 seasons.

He retired in 1991, wrapping up a career that stretched across three decades. He finished with 696 appearances and 82 saves, with his best work coming as the Orioles’ closer.

Notable Career Performances and Milestones

Don Aase had his share of big moments over 14 seasons in the majors. He showed a knack for bouncing back and finding new ways to contribute, which led to some memorable highlights.

1986 Season Breakout

Aase’s best season was 1986 with the Orioles. He racked up 34 saves and earned his only All-Star nod, putting him among the top closers of the 1980s.

He leaned on sharp control and a cool head in tight spots. That year, he posted a 2.98 ERA in 66 games.

He saved 13 games in a row from April to June—a club record at the time. Orioles manager Earl Weaver counted on Aase to shut things down late.

That kind of comeback is even more impressive considering his earlier elbow surgery. He didn’t just return—he excelled, showing real grit.

American League Championship Series Appearance

Aase never got to pitch in an American League Championship Series, but he did play for teams in the mix. His closest shot at the postseason came with the Angels in the early ’80s.

The Angels didn’t make the ALCS while he was there, but Aase’s solid relief work helped keep them in the hunt.

In 1982, he put up a 3.69 ERA for the Angels as they chased a playoff spot. He often worked multiple innings, giving his manager some much-needed flexibility.

Aase became known for his durability, often facing the league’s toughest hitters in high-leverage spots—guys like Dave Winfield and Eddie Murray.

World Series Champion and Awards

Aase never got a World Series ring, even though he spent his last years with the Mets and Dodgers, two teams with plenty of history.

He didn’t pick up many individual awards, but that 1986 All-Star selection stands out. He never won a Gold Glove or got MVP votes, but teams valued his steadiness and ability to stick around.

Aase finished his career with 66 wins, 82 saves, and a 3.80 ERA in 698 appearances. He started out in the rotation, then shifted to closing games during his best years.

Instead of blowing hitters away with velocity, Aase relied on control and movement. That approach helped him keep pitching even after arm injuries slowed his fastball.

Pitching Style and Statistical Legacy

Don Aase’s 14-year MLB career showed off a pitcher who could adapt—he started games, he closed them, and he found ways to stick in the majors with a mix of control and guts. His stats tell the story of someone who kept evolving and found ways to help his teams, year after year.

Pitching Mechanics and Role Evolution

Aase kicked off his career as a starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, but he really found his groove after moving into a relief role. He leaned on a solid fastball that usually touched the low 90s, and his slider—well, that became his bread and butter.

With the California Angels in his early years, Aase mostly started games, logging 61 starts between 1977 and 1979. He showed real durability in those days, but then arm issues changed the course of his career.

He missed all of 1982 after elbow surgery, and when he came back, he had to reinvent himself as a relief pitcher. That shift worked out, especially with the Baltimore Orioles, where he racked up 34 saves in 1986 and made the All-Star team.

Aase’s ability to adapt his pitching style over the years says a lot about his resilience and baseball smarts.

ERA, Strikeouts, and Career Records

Aase wrapped up his career with a 4.09 ERA over 696 games. His 757 strikeouts in 1,172.1 innings might not look flashy by today’s standards, but they got the job done back then.

He peaked in 1986 with Baltimore, posting a 2.98 ERA and those 34 saves—a year that put him among baseball’s top closers.

Over 14 seasons, Aase went 66-69. Not eye-popping, but those numbers make sense given his shift from starter to reliever and the way stats work differently in each role.

He finished with a 1.360 WHIP, showing he usually kept things under control—pretty important for a relief pitcher who often had to bail his team out of jams.

Home Runs and RBIs Allowed

Aase did a decent job keeping the ball in the yard, giving up 96 home runs over his career, or about 0.7 HR per nine innings. That helped him stay effective, especially late in games.

He often held his own against power hitters, which became crucial when he closed games—one bad pitch could swing everything.

As he moved into relief, Aase got pretty good at stranding inherited runners, a big part of his value.

Even in his last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1990, he limited damage, allowing just three home runs in 44.1 innings. Not bad for a guy near the end of his run.

Significant Games, Opponents, and Memorable Moments

Don Aase’s career had its fair share of big moments and showdowns with some of the game’s best. He thrived under pressure, and teams valued him for that steady presence.

Facing Baseball Legends and Standout Batters

Aase went up against some legendary hitters. Early on, he faced Hall of Famer Hank Aaron, a real test for any pitcher.

He also squared off against Wade Boggs, who challenged Aase’s command with his sharp eye at the plate. And when Aase returned to face his old Red Sox team, his matchups with Roger Clemens had a certain buzz.

Will Clark of the Giants gave him fits with that sweet lefty swing, and Aase had his share of battles with sluggers like Hubie Brooks and Kevin Bass.

Matchups Against Teams and Noteworthy Players

Aase had plenty of history facing the Atlanta Braves and Oakland Athletics in key games. His outings against the Minnesota Twins stood out, especially during their championship years.

One highlight: Opening Day 1990, when he saved a win for the Mets as Dwight Gooden beat the Cardinals. That was one of just two saves for him that year.

He tangled with rising stars like Curt Schilling and Scott Garrelts. Facing hitters like Kal Daniels and Mike Benjamin, Aase relied on his tactical approach to get outs.

Interleague games with the San Diego Padres brought their own set of challenges, since their balanced lineup forced him to mix things up.

Challenges and Comebacks

Don Aase’s 14-year MLB journey (1977-1990) had no shortage of obstacles. He battled injuries and contract issues but kept grinding to stay in the game.

Injuries and Recovery

Arm troubles nearly wrecked Aase’s career. The worst hit came after the 1982 season with the Angels, when elbow surgery sidelined him for all of 1983. People wondered if he’d pitch again.

Rehab took a lot out of him, but he didn’t quit. The Orioles gave him a shot in 1985, and he made the most of it.

He reinvented himself as a reliever. As Aase once told the Baltimore Sun, “I’ve been plugging holes of some kind all my life.”

Waivers, Free Agency, and Contract Details

Aase didn’t just face injury setbacks—he dealt with the business side of baseball too. After a rough 5-13 record in 1985 as a starter, he moved to the bullpen (not that he was thrilled at first). That change kept his career alive.

He bounced around as a free agent, pitching for the Red Sox, Angels, Orioles, and Mets. Contract terms often depended on how he’d been pitching, especially after injuries.

After his All-Star run in 1986, Aase landed better contract terms. He finished his career moving between teams, retiring after the 1990 season. Rumor has it he even tried a comeback in 2003, long after most thought he was done.

Connections, Teammates, and Influential Figures

Over 14 seasons, Don Aase built some strong relationships—teammates, coaches, and his college days all left their mark.

Notable Interactions with MLB Players

Aase played alongside plenty of recognizable names. In Baltimore, he teamed up with shortstop Kiko Garcia, who steadied the infield behind him.

With the Angels, he shared the field with Rick Burleson, a future batting champ, and that partnership helped solidify the team’s defense.

In Boston, Aase overlapped with a young Mike Greenwell. That pairing felt like a passing of the torch between different generations.

Ellis Burks, another talented outfielder, also crossed paths with Aase in the Red Sox organization, linking two eras of 1970s baseball.

Impactful Coaches and Management

Jim Frey, managing in Baltimore, really saw Aase’s potential as a reliever and helped him transition into that role.

Pitching coaches along the way played a huge part in keeping Aase’s career afloat, especially after injuries. Frank Bertaina, himself a former pitcher, taught Aase a lot about facing different hitters—advice that became crucial as he shifted to relief work.

Luke Appling, the Hall of Fame shortstop turned coach, shared plenty of baseball wisdom with Aase during spring training. Those chats gave him some perspective on the game’s evolution.

College Background at UNLV

Before pro ball, Aase pitched for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Those years with the Rebels helped him sharpen his fundamentals.

At UNLV, he worked on his control and built up the mental toughness he’d need in the majors. Pitching in the Las Vegas heat probably didn’t hurt his endurance, either.

Aase shares a UNLV connection with other alumni like Marty Cordova, even though they played in different eras. That Rebel bond sticks with guys who make it to the big leagues.

The coaching staff at UNLV hammered home fundamentals and work ethic—values Aase carried throughout his career. Those early lessons helped him adapt and push through tough times in the majors.

Post-Retirement Life and Lasting Impact

After stepping away in 1990, Don Aase built a new life off the mound, but he never really left the game behind. His post-baseball journey and quiet contributions to the sport have shaped how people remember him.

Role in Baseball Community After Retirement

Aase didn’t stay in the limelight after retiring. These days, he works as a senior project executive for a waterproof company, joking that he’s “been plugging holes of some kind all my life.” That’s a fitting next chapter.

He still pops up at Orioles alumni events, especially since he made his biggest mark as their All-Star closer. Sometimes he’ll show up for special ceremonies or old-timers’ games.

Unlike a lot of ex-players, Aase didn’t jump into coaching or TV work. Instead, he’s given back to baseball through charity work and youth programs in his community.

He’s kept retirement pretty low-key, focusing on family and his career after baseball.

Recognition, Legacy, and Hall of Fame Discussions

Aase didn’t make it to Cooperstown, but people still remember his impact. Baseball card collectors value his cards, especially his last ones in the 1991 Fleer and Score sets, which show his full career stats.

His best season, no question, was 1986—All-Star nod, 34 saves, and a reputation as one of the game’s top closers.

The Orioles still remember Aase as a steady bullpen force from 1985-1988. Sure, injuries interrupted his career, but his grit and ability to bounce back are a big part of his story.

Baseball historians see Aase as a solid reliever who adapted and found ways to help five different teams over his career.

Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts

Don Aase’s time in baseball is packed with interesting tidbits—some that even die-hard fans might’ve missed. He set a few records, took a winding road through the minors, and left behind a career that’s worth a second look.

Record Holders and Unique Statistics

Don Aase carved out a unique spot in baseball history when he picked up a win in relief during Game 3 of his only postseason run in his 13-year career. That clutch moment really showed how much teams could count on him when the pressure was on.

He made the All-Star team just once, representing the Baltimore Orioles in 1986—his standout year as a closer. Aase’s All-Star appearance didn’t come until he was 31, which feels a bit late, but hey, better late than never.

Born September 8, 1954, Aase actually shares his birthday with several other notable baseball players. That date pops up more than you’d expect in baseball trivia circles.

Over his 13 seasons, Aase played for five different teams. He bounced around quite a bit, which says something about how teams valued his skills and adaptability.

Minor League Journey and Related Teams

Before his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox in 1977, Aase spent time working on his game in Boston’s farm system. He pitched for the Pawtucket Red Sox, sharpening his arsenal before the big call-up at just 22.

Aase went to Cal State Fullerton before turning pro, so he had some pretty deep California roots. That connection came full circle later when he pitched for California-based teams in the majors.

He never suited up for the original Colt .45s (who turned into the Houston Astros), but he did face that franchise plenty of times in the National League.

After his time in Boston, Aase joined the Montreal Expos, marking his first run with a Canadian team and kicking off a journey through several MLB organizations.

Don Aase’s Influence on Future Generations

Don Aase’s career, which ran from 1977 to 1990, left a mark on baseball that stuck around even after he retired. He started as a starter, shifted to the bullpen, and found new success—showing other pitchers that change isn’t always a bad thing.

Role Model and Inspirations in Baseball

Aase’s resilience and willingness to adapt quietly inspired a lot of pitchers who came after him. He struggled as a starter with a 5-13 record through July 31, but after moving to the bullpen—something he didn’t love at first—he turned things around. That career pivot proved that players can reinvent themselves and still find success.

Younger pitchers often looked up to the way Aase handled the view from the mound, especially when the game was on the line. His calm presence under pressure became something pitching coaches pointed to when teaching new relievers.

With the Boston Red Sox, Aase didn’t mind mentoring younger players. He’d share tips about reading batters, both from the mound and while watching from left field during practice.

“You have to trust your stuff and forget yesterday,” Aase liked to tell up-and-coming pitchers. That bit of advice stuck, especially for relievers trying to handle the mental side of the game.

Contributions to Player Development

After he retired, Aase kept close ties to baseball, jumping into clinics and coaching sessions. He pitched for 14 seasons as a professional, so he had plenty of firsthand experience to pass on to younger players—sometimes you could almost see how much he loved sharing it.

A few notable relievers from the mid-1990s and early 2000s have said that talking with Aase changed how they handled late-inning pressure. He’d talk about ways to keep your arm strong and your mind sharp, and those ideas ended up woven into pitching development programs.

Coaches often used Aase’s career stats—laid out on his 1991 Score baseball card #289—as a way to show how relief pitching roles evolved over time. It’s a pretty cool teaching tool, honestly.

Aase also came up with a transition strategy that moved pitchers from starting roles into the bullpen. Now, teams use that path for guys whose skills fit better in short bursts.