David Price has built a detailed statistical legacy across multiple teams and eras in Major League Baseball. His career numbers reveal consistent performance and key turning points that shaped his value and impact on the game.
Below is a focused overview of his professional journey, highlighting teams, seasons, and performance markers that define his legacy.
| Team | Seasons | ERA | WAR | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Rays | 2008–2012 | 3.75 | 10.4 | 2011 All-Star, Cy Young finalist |
| Boston Red Sox | 2013–2014 | 4.16 | 6.6 | 2013 World Series champion |
| Detroit Tigers | 2015–2017 | 4.55 | 5.6 | 2015–2016 All-Star |
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 2018–2019 | 3.02 | 4.8 | 2019 World Series champion, playoff standout |
| Philadelphia Phillies | 2021 | 4.35 | 1.8 | Final MLB season |
Early Career and Draft Profile
College and Minor League Performance
Before reaching the majors, David Price showcased elite potential at the University of Tennessee and through a strong short-season debut. His command and curveball drew consistent attention from scouts.
Rookie Season Overview
His first full season in Tampa Bay set the tone for his career, establishing a mix of power and finesse that became his trademark. He balanced high-strikeout innings with smart pitch selection, earning attention as a frontline starter.
Peak Performance and All-Star Years
2011 Breakout Campaign
During his first stint in Tampa Bay, Price reached career-highs in wins and strikeouts, firmly establishing himself as one of the American League's top pitchers. His Cy Young run reflected both dominance and consistency.
Return to Form in Detroit
After a challenging period, Price regained confidence in Detroit, logging strong strikeout rates and stabilizing rotations. His ability to adapt his delivery contributed to sustained mid-rotation excellence.
Late Career and Championship Pedigree
Red Sox and First World Series Title
Boston provided Price with another chance at October glory, and he delivered in clutch moments. His leadership and veteran presence helped shape the culture of a contending club during a pivotal season.
Dodgers Run and Postseason Impact
With Los Angeles, Price thrived in high-leverage environments, tightening his mechanics and improving his sequencing. His postseason performances reinforced his reputation as a big-game pitcher who elevated his level when needed.
Key Takeaways
- Developed elite command and a devastating curveball over a long career.
- Earned multiple All-Star selections and two World Series rings.
- Adapted his mechanics and role across teams, staying effective into his late 30s.
- Delivered in high-pressure moments with clutch postseason performances.
- Left a lasting impact as a durable, intelligent frontline starter.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did David Price's curveball define his approach?
Price's curveball was a foundational pitch that allowed him to keep hitters off balance and generate swings and misses at any point in the count.
Which teams did David Price play for during his MLB career? He played for the Tampa Bay Rays, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies. Did David Price ever make an All-Star team more than once?
Yes, he was selected as an All-Star in 2011, 2015, and 2016, highlighting consistent excellence during those seasons.
What was the highlight of David Price's postseason performance?
His most memorable postseason came with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where his steady command and deception played a key role in deep playoff runs.