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Dave Dravecky is a former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher, best known for both his on-field performance and his incredible personal story of perseverance through his battle with cancer.

Quick Facts:

• Full Name: David Francis Dravecky
• Born: February 14, 1956
• Position: Pitcher
• Bats/Throws: Left/Left
• Teams:
  
  • San Diego Padres (1982–1987)
  • San Francisco Giants (1987–1989)

David Francis Dravecky (born February 14, 1956) is an American former professional baseball player, motivational speaker, and author. A left-handed pitcher, Dravecky played Major League Baseball (MLB) for the San Diego Padres (1982–87) and the San Francisco Giants (1987–89). He was named an All-Star in 1983 and played with the Padres in the 1984 World Series.

In September 1988, Dravecky was diagnosed with a desmoid tumor in his left arm. He underwent surgery the following month. Dravecky returned to pitch for the Giants in August 1989 and won his first major league start of the season. In his second start, he broke his arm throwing a pitch. He retired from baseball after the season and, following a cancer recurrence, had his left arm amputated in 1991.

Following his baseball career, Dravecky became a motivational speaker and author. He has written three books.

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