A power-hitting outfielder and first baseman who played for the Minnesota Twins and later coached in the minor leagues, known for his strong hitting and patient approach at the plate.
Craig Kusick, an American professional baseball player, is best remembered for his exceptional skills as a first baseman and designated hitter in the Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1970s. His seven-year career spanned from 1973 to 1979, playing for the Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Born on September 30, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kusick grew up in the suburb of Greenfield, where he attended Greenfield High School. He then attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he played college football as a wide receiver for the Wisconsin-La Crosse Eagles.
Initially, Kusick was cut from the school's baseball team as a freshman, but he refused to give up. He joined the track and field team, showcasing his versatility as an athlete. Eventually, he worked his way back onto the baseball team, boasting a respectable .307 batting average in three seasons.
In 1970, the Minnesota Twins signed Kusick, and he made his MLB debut in September 1973. Gradually, he took over first base duties from the legendary Harmon Killebrew and became a regular designated hitter from 1976 to 1978. During this period, he excelled as a DH, much to the delight of Twins fans.
One of Kusick's most remarkable achievements came on August 27, 1975, when he tied a major league record by being hit by pitches three times in an 11-inning game against the Milwaukee Brewers. His career peaked in 1977, with a .254 batting average, 12 home runs, and 45 runs batted in.
In 1979, Kusick's contract was sold to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he played 24 games before being released after the season. He subsequently signed with the San Diego Padres but never made it back to the major leagues.
After retiring from professional baseball, Kusick went on to become the baseball coach at Rosemount High School in Rosemount, Minnesota, a position he held from 1982 to 2004. His dedication to nurturing young talent was a testament to his passion for the game.
Craig Kusick's MLB career may have been relatively short, but his contributions to the game are still celebrated. He left an indelible mark on the Twins and Blue Jays organizations, serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes. His impressive statistics, including a .235 batting average, 46 home runs, and 171 runs batted in, solidify his place in baseball history.
Kusick's legacy extends beyond his playing days, as he touched the lives of countless young athletes during his coaching tenure at Rosemount High School. His commitment to developing the next generation of baseball talent ensures his impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
Craig Kusick's remarkable journey, from his early days in Wisconsin to his MLB triumphs and coaching tenure, serves as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and love for the game of baseball.
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