Mike Lieberthal
From BR Bullpen
Michael Scott Lieberthal (Lieby)
- Bats Right, Throws Right
- Height 6' 0", Weight 170 lb.
- Debut June 30, 1994
- Final Game September 22, 2007
- Born January 18, 1972 in Glendale, CA USA
[edit] Biographical Information
Mike Lieberthal played 14 years in the major leagues, hitting 150 home runs. His father, Dennis, is a scout for the Detroit Tigers and a former San Francisco Giants scout.
A two-time All-Star (1999 and 2000), Lieberthal was once a powerful homerun hitter. On May 12, 2001, when he tore all three major ligaments of his right knee while diving back to first base on a pickoff attempt. He had surgery in June and missed the rest of the season. He missed the rest of the season, then in October 2002, he injured the same knee as he stepped out of a golf cart near his Southern California home. He tore the meniscus and had surgery.[1] He now has limited power, and is on the downturn of his career. Carlos Ruiz, a catcher who was called up earlier in 2006, appears to be Lieberthal's successor.
On May 31, 2005, he became the third Phillie to catch 1,000 games. He is also the all-time Phillies leader in games caught, with more than 1,130 games. He is ahead of Red Dooin and Bob Boone.
Had a fan group at Veteran's Stadium called "Lieby's Lil Ladies."
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 2-time NL All-Star (1999 & 2000)
- NL Gold Glove Winner (1999)
- 2002 NL Comeback Player of the Year Award
- 20-Home Run Seasons: 2 (1997 & 1999)
- 30-Home Run Seasons: 1 (1997)
