once van slyke became a full-time outfielder, he showed off one of the most accurate and powerful throwing arms in the majors, so much that the "slyke zone" was established at three rivers stadium. from 1985 to 1994, he was frequently among the league leaders in outfield assists. from 1985 to 1988, he posted seasons of 13, 10, 11, and 12 assists, respectively. as center fielder for the pirates, he won five consecutive gold gloves from 1988 to 1992.