First baseman who played for the Toronto Blue Jays and set a rookie record with 11 home runs in April 1977. He later managed in the minor leagues.
In the annals of baseball history, Doug Ault's name may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, but his impact on the sport is undeniable. He is best known for hitting the first two home runs in Toronto Blue Jays history, making him an instant legend in the eyes of Blue Jays fans.
Doug Ault was born on March 9, 1950, in Beaumont, Texas. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by his eldest sister, Brenda, who played a significant role in nurturing his passion for baseball. Ault's talent on the field earned him a varsity baseball star spot at Texas Tech.
Ault was drafted three times in the MLB draft but refused to sign. It wasn't until 1973 that he was finally signed by the Texas Rangers as an amateur free agent. He quickly rose through the minor league ranks, making his major league debut in 1976. However, he found himself struggling to find a permanent spot on the team, which led to his selection in the 1976 expansion draft by the Toronto Blue Jays.
Ault's moment of glory came on April 7, 1977, when he hit the first two home runs in Blue Jays history, helping the team secure a 9-5 win against the Chicago White Sox. This feat cemented his status as the Blue Jays' first superstar. Despite this promising start, Ault's career was marked by inconsistency, and he eventually found himself out of the majors within three years.
After retiring from baseball, Ault went on to manage in the minor leagues, leading the Syracuse Chiefs to a pennant in 1985. He eventually retired from baseball in 1994 and ventured into the automobile business. However, a series of personal tragedies and business failures plagued him in later life.
Despite his struggles, Ault's legacy extends beyond his playing career. He remains an important figure in Blue Jays history, and his story serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars can face darkness.
Doug Ault's life was cut short when he tragically committed suicide on December 22, 2004. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles that many athletes face beyond their playing careers.
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