Rusty Greer
From BR Bullpen
Thurman Clyde Greer III (The Red Baron)
- Bats Left, Throws Left
- Height 6' 0", Weight 190 lb.
- School University of Montevallo
- Debut May 16, 1994
- Final Game July 11, 2002
- Born January 21, 1969 in Fort Rucker, AL USA
[edit] Biographical Information
Rusty Greer played nine seasons in the big leagues, all with the Texas Rangers, who drafted him in the 10th round in 1990. A left fielder, his career averages of .305/.387/.478 showed an ability to hit for a good average, good plate patience, and above-average power. He didn't steal many bases, but he did steal 9 times in 9 tries in 1996.
He finished 3rd in 1994 American League Rookie of the Year Award voting behind Manny Ramirez and Bob Hamelin.
Known for his hustle, Greer collected 11 hits in his first 13 career games. In 1995, his second season, he hit a pinch hit grand slam and a two run shot to win games for the Rangers.
Among the top six in walks and RBI in Texas Rangers history, Greer recorded his 1,000th career hit on August 7, 2000 - reaching that milestone faster than anyone in Rangers history.
He is the only major league player ever to come from the University of Montevallo, a small college in Alabama.
The most similar player is a surprise, Zeke Bonura, the first baseman from the 1930's. However, Bonura and Greer have similar offensive stats.
[edit] Notable Achievements
- 100 RBI Seasons: 3 (1996 & 1998-1999)
- 100 Runs Scored Seasons: 3 (1997-1999)
- 20 Home Runs Seasons: 2 (1997 & 1999)
