Full Name : Anthony Nomar Garciaparra
Born : July 23, 1973
Hometown : Whittier, California
Height : 6'
Weight : 190 lbs
Bats : Right
Throws : Right
Major League Baseball debut : August 31, 1996 for the Boston Red Sox
Family : wife, Mia Hamm; daughters, Grace Isabella, Ava Caroline (twins)
Primary Position : IF (Infielder)
One of the game's greatest shortstops, Nomar Garciaparra has had a profound career in Major League Baseball that his earned him the respect of many. Born on July 23, 1973, in Whittier, California, Nomar was part of the "Holy Trinity" of shortstops (which included himself, Alex Rodriguez, and Derek Jeter) that dominated throughout the 1990's. Nomar's ability at the plate and superb range of defensive skills have given him a reputation as one of the game's most influential players.
During his young career at Georgia Tech, Nomar helped bring the team to the College World Series in 1994. Though the Yellow Jackets went on to lose against Oklahoma University, Nomar had established himself as one of baseball's top prospects. The Boston Red Sox decided to select him in the first round of the 1994 draft, and Nomar wasted no time as he made his debut in the 1996 season. Appearing in just 24 games, Nomar batted .241, knocked out 4 homers, and drove in 16 RBI's. However, the following season (Nomar's first full year in the bigs), he startled Boston fans with his .306 batting average, 30 home runs, and 98 RBI's. This was all in addition to the stellar defense he flashed at shortstop. His efforts throughout 1997 did not go unrecognized as Nomar eventually went on to win the 1997 American League Rookie of the Year Award.
Boston fans grew to appreciate Garciaparra. His reputation as a clubhouse leader became widely known throughout the organization. Nomar also grew famous for his fidgety approach at the plate, which involved strapping his batting gloves over and over again prior to receiving a pitch. His ability to get on base regularly caused opponents to pitch to him very carefully. Nomar soon became a fan favorite, and he received even more attention from the media when he married soccer superstar Mia Hamm in 2003.
Nomar continued to show why he was one of the game's best hitters as he finished second in voting for the American League Most Valuable Player Award (next to Juan Gonzalez) in 1998. In addition to winning the Rookie of the Year Award, he was also the American League Silver Slugger among all shortstops. He has made six all-star appearances throughout his career, and has finished in the top 10 in Most Valuable Player voting on five separate occasions. One of his greatest accomplishments definitely took place in the 1999 and 2000 seasons when he finished as the American League leader in batting average during both years, hitting .357 and .372 respectively. Nomar played for the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers, and it is no question that he had his greatest impact with the Red Sox. After tearing his left groin in the 2005 season, he shifted from shortstop to third base. After being acquired by the Dodgers, he became the organization's everyday first-baseman since his range was limited do to the injuries. Known as having one of the greatest approaches at the plate, Nomar Garciaparra will be remembered for his leadership, versatility, and dedication that brought him undisputed success.
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