Jeff Samardzija, affectionately known as "Shark" by Cubs fans, spent six-and-a-half memorable seasons with the Chicago Cubs. During this period, he achieved an All-Star nomination in 2014, his final year with the team. Before joining the Cubs, Samardzija was a dual-sport standout at Notre Dame, excelling in both football and baseball. He held numerous accolades and records before being drafted by the Cubs in 2006. His unique journey from college athletics to professional baseball, including a historic contract, paved the way for an impressive career that saw him become one of the Cubs' most reliable pitchers during challenging times.

A College Athlete's Unusual Path to Professional Baseball

Samardzija’s transition from college sports to professional baseball was anything but conventional. At Notre Dame, he shone as both a wide receiver in football and a pitcher in baseball, earning multiple All-American honors. After completing his senior season in football, he opted to pursue baseball professionally, bypassing the NFL Draft. The Cubs offered him an unprecedented five-year, $10 million deal with club options and a no-trade clause, recognizing his potential. This contract was groundbreaking for a prospect, setting the stage for his eventual MLB debut on July 25, 2008, against the Miami Marlins.

Samardzija's early career included a mix of relief and starting roles until 2012 when he firmly established himself as a starter. Over the next few years, he became a cornerstone of the Cubs' pitching staff, even leading the rotation on Opening Day in 2013 and 2014. His performance earned him accolades, including National League Co-Player of the Week in August 2013 and an All-Star nod in 2014, although he did not participate due to a mid-season trade. Despite these achievements, he turned down a significant extension offer, signaling the end of his Cubs tenure in June 2014.

A Legacy Built on Pitching Excellence and Trade Drama

Samardzija’s impact on the Cubs extended beyond his statistical contributions. He set a major league record for the lowest ERA (1.46) by a winless pitcher through his first ten starts in 2014. This remarkable feat highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. However, the Cubs faced difficult decisions regarding his future. Despite receiving offers from several teams, including the New York Yankees, they traded him to the Oakland Athletics in July 2014. In Oakland, Samardzija continued to pitch effectively, posting a 3.14 ERA in 111 2/3 innings. Unfortunately, the A’s fell short in the AL Wild Card Game against the Kansas City Royals.

Following his time in Oakland, Samardzija moved to the Chicago White Sox for a disappointing one-year stint before signing a lucrative five-year, $90 million deal with the San Francisco Giants in 2016. His career concluded after the 2020 season with the Giants, leaving behind a legacy marked by resilience and adaptability. Throughout his 13-year career, Samardzija accumulated an 80-106 record, a 4.15 ERA, and 1,449 strikeouts over 1,645 1/3 innings. His journey from a two-sport star at Notre Dame to a respected MLB pitcher remains a testament to his versatility and dedication.