Full Name : Justin Ernest George Morneau
Born : May 15, 1981
Hometown : New Westminster, British Columbia
Height : 6' 4
Weight : 205 lbs
Bats : Left
Throws : Right
Major League Baseball debut : June 10, 2003 for the Minnesota Twins
Primary position : FB (First base)
Justin Morneau, at just 26 years old, has already defined what it means to be a phenomenal athlete. Born on May 15, 1981, Morneau is one of the few baseball players of Canadian descent who have been able to succeed in the big leagues. As one half of the “M&M Boys” (along with teammate Joe Mauer), Morneau has given Twins fans plenty to be excited about.
Unlike other baseball players, Morneau was a member of the Canadian national champion team in 1997 and 1998. It was through this exposure that scouts learned of his outstanding talent, specifically his power stroke at the plate. As a result of his success throughout his young childhood, Morneau was forced to decide to either go to college or venture directly to the pros. When the Minnesota Twins drafted him as the 89th overall pick, he couldn't turn down the offer.
After spending a few years in the minor league system, Justin finally made his debut with the Twins on June 10, 2003. During that season, Morneau saw limited playing time, and was shuffled between the pros and minor leagues on several occasions. However, after putting up stellar numbers in his minor league stint during the 2004 season, the Twins decided to trade veteran Doug Mientkiewicz to make room for Morneau on the everyday roster. Justin did not waste any time making his presence known, as he belted 19 home runs in just 280 at-bats during the 2004 season.
Unfortunately, Morneau suffered from a number of setbacks in 2005 that hindered his performance. During a game in April, Morneau was drilled in the head by a fastball that caused him to spend some time on the shelf. Nevertheless, he managed to appear in 141 games and make a name for himself by driving out 22 home runs and knocking in 79 RBI's that season. Canadians grew proud of their emerging superstar, as was seen when Morneau was selected to participate in the World Baseball Classic prior to the 2006 season. It was evident that Justin was becoming one of the most feared (and respected) hitters in the game.
2006 served as a milestone in Morneau's young career. After getting off to a slow start, Morneau picked up the pace in June and July, remaining atop the American League leader board for both batting average and home runs. On August 9, 2006, Morneau became the first player in the Twins' organization since 1987 to hit at least 30 home runs in a single season. He also went on to win the Silver Slugger award, and he was even named American League Most Valuable Player after a close vote against Derek Jeter. Morneau became the 4th player in the Twins' franchise history to win MVP honors. As a stellar young athlete, Morneau has, and will continue, to be recognized as one of the most feared left-handed sluggers to play the game.
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