Norm Charlton is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for several teams during his career. He was born on January 6, 1963, in Fort Polk, Louisiana, and attended Rice University in Houston, Texas. Charlton was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the first round of the 1984 MLB draft, but he did not sign with the team and instead played for the United States national team in the 1984 Summer Olympics.
Charlton eventually signed with the Cincinnati Reds in 1986 and made his MLB debut in 1988. He quickly established himself as a reliable relief pitcher, earning the nickname "The Sheriff" for his intimidating presence on the mound. Charlton was a key member of the Reds' bullpen during their World Series championship season in 1990, recording a 2.74 ERA and 117 strikeouts in 117 innings pitched.
After six seasons with the Reds, Charlton was traded to the Seattle Mariners in 1992. He continued to pitch well, earning an All-Star selection in 1993 and helping the Mariners reach the American League Championship Series in 1995. Charlton also played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, and Tampa Bay Devil Rays during his career, but he was never able to replicate the success he had with the Reds and Mariners.
Charlton retired from baseball in 2001 with a career record of 51-54, 97 saves, and a 3.84 ERA. He was known for his fierce competitiveness and his willingness to pitch in any situation, whether it was a high-pressure playoff game or a meaningless midseason contest. Charlton was also respected by his teammates and opponents for his work ethic and his dedication to the game.
After retiring from baseball, Charlton worked as a pitching coach for several minor league teams and served as a special assistant to the general manager for the Reds. He also became involved in horse racing, owning and breeding thoroughbreds in Kentucky. Charlton's baseball career may not have been as illustrious as some of his peers, but he was a valuable contributor to several successful teams and left a lasting impression on the game.
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