Three years, three teams, three World Series titles: Will Smith's journey a first in big leagues

PHOENIX (AP) — Will Smith's been a really good relief pitcher in the big leagues for 12 years.

He's also got a knack for being in the right place at the right time.

The left-handed reliever became the first player in MLB history to win three World Series in a row with three different teams after the Texas Rangers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-0 on Wednesday night to clinch the franchise's first title.

“As a kid, in your front yard playing catch, when you’re first falling in love with baseball, it’s always 3-2, bottom of the ninth, Game 7 of the World Series,” Smith said after Game 4. “You always dream of being in these situations. So to be lucky enough to do it three years in a row, it’s something I don’t take for granted.”

Smith — a 2019 All-Star selection who grew up in Georgia — was a key piece of Atlanta's bullpen in 2021 when the Braves won the title, throwing four scoreless innings during the World Series. He was also on the Houston Astros' roster for last year's Fall Classic win, though he didn't appear in a game.

The 34-year-old then spent this season with the Rangers and had two appearances in this year's World Series.

“I only imagined maybe winning one,” Smith said. “But I'm not going to complain.”

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