Ozzie Smith

Ozzie Smith is known in baseball as “The Wizard” and is arguably the greatest defensive shortstop in the history of Major League Baseball. He redefined the position in his nearly two decades of work at one of the game’s most demanding positions. Smith received an honorary doctor of humanities degree in 2003.

Smith, who retired as a player in 1996, was named to 15 All-star teams.

On July 28, 2002, Smith became the 22nd major-league shortstop and the 254th person overall inducted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.

Smith’s contributions off the field also are noteworthy. A St. Louis resident, he has spent countless hours assisting local charities, including the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the St. Louis Variety Club, Ronald McDonald House and Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club.

He has received a number of awards recognizing his commitment to his community, including the 1992 St. Louis Man of the Year for his charity work and his All-star status on the diamond. He was the first athlete to receive the prestigious civic award.

On May 11, he will be inducted into the St. Louis Walk of Fame with a star and biographical plaque embedded along the Delmar Loop in University City.