Davis made his Major League debut with the Phillies in 1982, but he struggled in his first few seasons. He was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 1987, where he had a breakout season. Davis was converted from a starter to a reliever and became the Giants' closer. He led the National League in saves with 44 and won the NL Cy Young Award.
Davis signed with the San Diego Padres in 1989 and continued his success as a closer. He led the NL in saves again with 44 and was named an All-Star. Davis signed with the Kansas City Royals in 1992 and struggled in his first season with the team. He bounced back in 1993 and had a solid season as a setup man.
Davis signed with the Atlanta Braves in 1994 but was released after just one season. He signed with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1995 and had a decent season as a setup man. Davis signed with the Toronto Blue Jays in 1996 but struggled and was released mid-season.
Davis signed with the Seattle Mariners in 1997 and had a solid season as a setup man. He signed with the San Francisco Giants in 1998 but struggled and was released mid-season. Davis signed with the Milwaukee Brewers in 1999 but struggled again and was released mid-season.
Davis retired after the 1999 season with a career record of 51-84, 96 saves, and a 4.17 ERA. He was a two-time All-Star and won the NL Cy Young Award in 1989. Davis was known for his devastating changeup and his ability to pitch in high-pressure situations.
After his playing career, Davis became a pitching coach and worked with several minor league teams. He also worked as a scout for the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Davis was inducted into the Chabot College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.
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