History of Craig Breslow in Timeline

"Craig Andrew Breslow is a former professional baseball pitcher who played 12 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for various teams, including the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, and Miami Marlins. He also represented Team Israel in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. Currently, Breslow serves as the Chief Baseball Officer for the Boston Red Sox."

1949: First All-Yale Battery Since 1883

In 2012, Craig Breslow and catcher Ryan Lavarnway became the first All-Yale battery in the major leagues since 1883.

1974: Historical Statistical Milestone

Breslow's performance in 2010 included a notable statistical achievement: opposing batters went 0-for-11 with no RBIs against him when the bases were loaded, marking the most such at-bats without an RBI for an AL pitcher since the stat began being tracked in 1974.

1974: Career Inherited Runners Scored Percentage

Through the 2010 season, Breslow demonstrated an impressive ability to prevent inherited runners from scoring. He allowed only 33 out of 151 inherited runners (21.9%) to score, ranking fourth-best among pitchers with 150 or more inherited runners since the statistic was first tracked in 1974.

1977: Breaking Strikeout Record

In 2010, Breslow achieved a significant milestone by setting a new record for strikeouts by a left-handed reliever in Oakland Athletics history. He recorded 71 strikeouts, surpassing the previous record of 69 set by Bob Lacey in 1977.

August 8, 1980: Birth

Craig Breslow was born on August 8, 1980.

1983: First Yale Graduate in MLB Since Ron Darling

Craig Breslow became the first Yale graduate to play in the MLB since Ron Darling (1983-1995).

1992: Sister Diagnosed with Cancer

Craig Breslow's sister, Lesley, was diagnosed with pediatric thyroid cancer in 1992.

1993: Bar Mitzvah

Craig Breslow had his Bar Mitzvah in 1993.

1997: Named to All-Conference Soccer Team

Craig Breslow was named to the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference Boys First-Team Soccer Team in 1997.

1998: Graduated High School

Craig Breslow graduated from Trumbull High School in 1998.

1998: Played in Connecticut/Massachusetts All-Star Game

Craig Breslow played in the Connecticut/Massachusetts All-Star game at Fenway Park in 1998.

1999: Pitched for Middletown Giants

Craig Breslow pitched for the Middletown Giants of the New England Collegiate Baseball League as a freshman in 1999.

2002: Featured in "Odd Man Out"

Breslow's early career, both in college and his first year with the Brewers, is partly documented in Matt McCarthy's book "Odd Man Out: A Year on the Mound with a Minor League Misfit," published in 2002.

2002: Graduated Yale University

Craig Breslow graduated from Yale University in 2002 with a double major B.A. in molecular biophysics and biochemistry.

2002: Ranked Fifth in the Pioneer League

Craig Breslow ranked fifth in the Pioneer League with six wins in 2002.

2002: Drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers

Craig Breslow was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 26th round of the 2002 MLB draft.

2002: Named Jewish Sports Review College Baseball First Team All-American

Craig Breslow was named a Jewish Sports Review College Baseball First Team All-American in 2002.

2003: Averaged 11+1/3 Strikeouts per Nine Innings

Craig Breslow averaged 11+1/3 strikeouts per nine innings for the Single-A Beloit Snappers of the Midwest League in 2003.

2004: Pitched for the New Jersey Jackals

Craig Breslow pitched for the New Jersey Jackals of the Northeast League, an independent baseball league, in 2004.

2004: Released by the Brewers

The Brewers released Craig Breslow during the 2004 season.

July 23, 2005: First Game in the Major Leagues

Craig Breslow pitched his first game in the major leagues for the San Diego Padres on July 23, 2005.

December 21, 2005: Non-tendered by the Padres

The Padres non-tendered Craig Breslow on December 21, 2005.

2005: MLB Debut

Craig Breslow made his MLB debut with the San Diego Padres in 2005.

February 1, 2006: Signed with the Boston Red Sox

Craig Breslow signed a minor league contract with the Boston Red Sox on February 1, 2006.

2006: International League All-Star and Promotion to Boston

In 2006, Breslow was named an International League All-Star while playing for the Pawtucket Red Sox. He had a successful season with a 7-1 record and a 2.69 ERA, leading to his promotion to the Boston Red Sox in the latter half of the season.

September 1, 2007: Promotion to Boston and World Series Champion

Breslow was promoted to the Boston Red Sox on September 1, 2007. Although he didn't play in the majors that year, he was part of the postseason roster and earned a World Series ring.

March 23, 2008: Claimed by the Cleveland Indians

On March 23, 2008, Craig Breslow was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Indians and joined their 40-man roster. Due to being out of minor league options, the Indians were obligated to keep him on their major league roster.

May 29, 2008: Claimed by the Minnesota Twins

On May 29, 2008, Breslow was claimed off waivers by the Minnesota Twins.

2008: Consistent Performance as Left-Handed Reliever

Between 2008 and 2013, Breslow established himself as a reliable left-handed reliever. During this period, he pitched in 392 games, the second-highest among left-handed relievers after Matt Thornton. He maintained a solid 2.82 ERA and limited batters to a .224 batting average.

2008: Impressive ERA and Performance

Breslow had an impressive 2008 season, finishing with a 1.91 ERA in 47 innings pitched. This placed him ninth in the American League among pitchers with at least 40 innings pitched.

2008: Strike 3 Foundation

In 2008, Breslow established the Strike 3 Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding research for pediatric cancer.

May 2009: Claimed by the Oakland Athletics

In May 2009, the Oakland Athletics claimed Breslow off waivers from the Minnesota Twins, seeking an experienced left-handed pitcher for their bullpen.

May 20, 2009: Joining the Oakland Athletics

On May 20, 2009, Breslow was claimed off waivers by the Oakland Athletics who were in need of a left-handed relief pitcher.

2009: High Appearances and Strong Performance

Breslow appeared in 77 games in the 2009 season, the second-highest in the American League. He was particularly effective with runners in scoring position, limiting batters to a .143 batting average.

2009: One of Six Ivy Leaguers in MLB

Craig Breslow was one of six Ivy Leaguers on major league rosters at the beginning of the 2009 season.

2009: Solid Performance and Control Issues

In 2009, while playing for the Twins, Breslow maintained a solid batting average against both left-handed and right-handed hitters. However, he faced challenges with control during his 17 appearances.

2010: Most Valuable Jewish Pitcher and Career Highlights

Breslow had a remarkable 2010 season, leading to his recognition as the Most Valuable Jewish Pitcher by Jewish Major Leaguers. He also recorded a career-high 74 2/3 innings pitched, the fourth-highest among American League relievers, and secured five of his eight career MLB saves during that season.

2010: Consistent Performance and Impressive Stats

Breslow once again ranked second in the AL for appearances in 2010, pitching in 75 games. He excelled at stranding inherited runners and held opposing batters to a .194 batting average.

2010: Breslow's Academic Prowess and Recognition

Breslow's exceptional intellect earned him recognition and accolades throughout his baseball career. In 2010, the Sporting News ranked him among the top 20 smartest athletes, solidifying his reputation as one of the most academically gifted players in the league.

2010: Indifference to Jersey Number

In 2010, Breslow shared that he didn't have any particular attachment to his jersey number, attributing it to his experience of playing for multiple organizations over the years.

2010: Named Smartest Athlete

The Sporting News named Craig Breslow the smartest athlete on their top 20 list in 2010.

December 9, 2011: Trade to the Arizona Diamondbacks

On December 9, 2011, Breslow was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks along with Trevor Cahill in exchange for Ryan Cook, Jarrod Parker, and Collin Cowgill.

2011: Leading the League in Pickoffs and Caught Stealing

Breslow's 2011 season was notable for his defensive contributions. He led all relief pitchers with five pickoffs and topped American League relievers with seven caught stealing.

July 31, 2012: Trade to the Boston Red Sox

Breslow returned to the Boston Red Sox on July 31, 2012, after being traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for outfielder Scott Podsednik and relief pitcher Matt Albers.

2012: Breslow's Academic Prowess and Recognition

Breslow's exceptional intellect earned him recognition and accolades throughout his baseball career. In 2012, Men's Fitness recognized his academic achievements by naming him one of the Top 10 Smartest Athletes in Professional Sports.

2012: First Yale Grads as MLB Teammates Since 1949

In 2012, Craig Breslow and catcher Ryan Lavarnway became the first Yale grads to be Major League teammates since 1949.

January 2013: Two-Year Contract with the Red Sox

In January 2013, Breslow secured a two-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, guaranteeing him at least $6.25 million. He earned $2.325 million in 2013 and $3.825 million in 2014, with a $4 million team option for 2015 and a $100,000 buyout.

November 9, 2013: Marriage

Craig Breslow married Lindsay Shaffer on November 9, 2013, just ten days after his World Series victory with the Boston Red Sox.

November 2013: Inducted into NECBL Hall of Fame

Craig Breslow was inducted into the New England Collegiate Baseball League's Hall of Fame in November 2013.

2013: Undecided on Future Career

As of 2013, Craig Breslow was undecided as to whether after his baseball career he would attend medical school or become involved in the operational side of baseball.

2013: Solid Performance Before Trade

Before being traded, Breslow had a solid first half of the 2013 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, recording a 2-0 record, a 2.70 ERA, and 42 strikeouts in 40 games.

2013: Consistent Performance as Left-Handed Reliever

2013: Breslow's Eloquence and Wit

Beyond his pitching abilities, Breslow was known for his eloquence and quick wit, often surprising those around him with his vocabulary and insightful observations. His intellectual depth added another layer to his persona, making him a captivating figure both on and off the field.

2013: Impressive Season and Award Nomination

Breslow had a strong 2013 season with a 1.81 ERA, ranking third among left-handed relievers in the American League. His performance earned him a nomination for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award by the Red Sox.

2013: Brief Stint with the Portland Sea Dogs

Craig Breslow played a single game for the AA Portland Sea Dogs in 2013.

2013: World Series Championship

Craig Breslow won the World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2013.

2013: 2013 American League Division Series and Championship Series

During the 2013 post-season, Breslow had a successful run with the Red Sox. In the ALDS, he pitched 3+2⁄3 scoreless innings across three games, contributing to their victory against Tampa Bay. In the ALCS, he continued his strong performance with another 3+1⁄3 scoreless innings against the Detroit Tigers. Overall, he pitched in 10 of 16 playoff games, maintaining a 2.45 ERA.

August 25, 2014: Saving Grace in a Challenging Season

Despite starting the 2014 season on the disabled list and recording a 5.96 ERA, Breslow managed to secure a save for the Red Sox on August 25, 2014. This victory came during an extra-inning game against their AL East rivals, the Toronto Blue Jays.

2014: Contract Details

As part of his two-year contract signed in January 2013, Breslow was set to earn $3.825 million in 2014.

2014: Inducted into Fairfield County Sports Hall of Fame

Craig Breslow was inducted into the Fairfield County, Connecticut Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.

2014: Red Sox Nominee for Roberto Clemente Award

In 2014, Breslow was recognized for his character and sportsmanship when he was nominated by the Red Sox for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award.

June 2015: Birth of Twins

Breslow and his wife, Lindsay, welcomed twin boys, Carter and Mason, in June 2015.

2015: Contract Option

Breslow's contract, signed in January 2013, included a team option for the 2015 season worth $4 million, with a $100,000 buyout.

2015: A Mixed Season with the Red Sox

Breslow's performance with the Red Sox in 2015 was marked by both positives and negatives. While he recorded one save and struck out 46 batters in 65 innings, he also finished with a 0-4 record and a 4.15 ERA in his 45 appearances.

February 12, 2016: Signing with the Miami Marlins

On February 12, 2016, Breslow signed a minor league contract with the Miami Marlins, which included a major league option.

July 18, 2016: Parting Ways with the Marlins

Breslow's stint with the Marlins was short-lived. On July 18, 2016, he was released from the team at his own request after a brief period where he posted a 4.50 ERA in 15 relief appearances.

July 24, 2016: Joining the Texas Rangers

Shortly after his release from the Marlins, Breslow signed a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers on July 24, 2016. The contract included an opt-out clause.

August 7, 2016: A Short Stay with the Rangers

Breslow's time with the Texas Rangers was brief. On August 7, 2016, he was released from his minor league contract.

September 2016: Representing Israel at the World Baseball Classic Qualifier

Breslow showcased his pitching skills on the international stage during the World Baseball Classic qualifying round in September 2016, representing Team Israel.

October 2016: Experimenting with Rapsodo

In October 2016, Craig Breslow started experimenting with the Rapsodo Baseball system to analyze and enhance his pitching mechanics, aiming to make a career comeback.

2016: Breslow's Pitching Arsenal and Offseason Adjustments

Breslow's pitching repertoire was recognized for its diversity and effectiveness. During the 2016 offseason, he dedicated himself to improving his pitching mechanics by dropping his arm slot and incorporating a two-seam fastball into his arsenal.

January 2017: Improved Pitch Movement

By January 2017, Breslow significantly improved his two-seam fastball through the Rapsodo system, adding about 9 inches to both his horizontal and vertical movement.

February 8, 2017: Signing with the Minnesota Twins

On February 8, 2017, Breslow committed to the Minnesota Twins by signing a minor league contract. Notably, he chose this opportunity over numerous other offers, some of which were financially more lucrative. His decision was motivated by his desire for a chance to compete for a spot on their major league roster.

February 2017: Balancing Club and Country

Initially slated to be part of Team Israel's roster for the main tournament of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, Breslow faced a difficult decision in February 2017.

July 2017: Deferred Medical School Acceptance

As of July 2017, Craig Breslow had deferred his acceptance to medical school four times to continue playing baseball.

July 24, 2017: Designated for Assignment by the Twins

Breslow's time with the Minnesota Twins came to an end on July 24, 2017, when he was designated for assignment. This decision followed his appearance in 30 games for the team, during which he achieved a 1-1 record but also carried a 5.23 ERA.

August 4, 2017: Joining the Cleveland Indians

On August 4, 2017, Breslow was signed to a minor league contract by the Cleveland Indians. He was subsequently assigned to their Class AAA affiliate, the Columbus Clippers.

2017: Representing Israel at the World Baseball Classic Qualifier

Breslow showcased his pitching skills on the international stage during the World Baseball Classic qualifying round in September 2016, representing Team Israel.

2017: Unique Distinction with the Diamondbacks

By the end of the 2017 season, Breslow held a unique distinction with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He pitched the most innings for the team without ever recording a loss. Additionally, he and Jimmie Sherfy were the only pitchers with a 1.000 winning percentage and more than one victory for the Diamondbacks.

2017: Final MLB Appearance

Craig Breslow made his final MLB appearance in 2017.

2017: World Baseball Classic

Craig Breslow pitched for Team Israel at the 2017 World Baseball Classic.

February 12, 2018: Signing with the Toronto Blue Jays

On February 12, 2018, Breslow agreed to a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, receiving an invitation to spring training as part of the deal.

November 2, 2018: Breslow's Impressive Career Rank and Free Agency

By the end of the 2018 season, Breslow had solidified his place as a reliable left-handed pitcher, ranking fourth among active MLB pitchers in career appearances with an impressive 576 games. On November 2, 2018, he exercised his option to become a free agent, exploring new opportunities within the league.

December 2018: Birth of Daughter

The Breslow family expanded again in December 2018 with the birth of their daughter, Livia.

2018: Ranked Fourth Among Active Left-Handed Pitchers

At the end of the 2018 season, Craig Breslow ranked fourth among all active left-handed MLB pitchers in career appearances.

January 2019: Transition to Front Office Role

In January 2019, Breslow transitioned from the field to a front-office role when he was hired by the Chicago Cubs as their Director of Strategic Initiatives for Baseball Operations.

October 17, 2019: Promotion within the Cubs Organization

On October 17, 2019, the Chicago Cubs promoted Breslow to the position of Director of Pitching / Special Assistant to the President and General Manager.

November 2020: Further Advancement within the Cubs

In November 2020, Breslow's career with the Chicago Cubs continued to ascend as he was promoted to the position of Assistant General Manager/Vice President, Pitching.