A power-hitting catcher who played for several MLB teams, including the Houston Astros, and is known for his impressive home run hitting and clutch performances.
Evan Gattis, also known as "El Oso Blanco" or "The White Bear," is a former professional baseball player who made a name for himself in the MLB as a designated hitter and catcher. With his raw power capabilities, Gattis dominated the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League, earning his nickname and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Gattis was born on August 18, 1986, in Dallas, Texas, and grew up playing baseball from the age of six. He played for the Dallas Tigers, one of the premier amateur teams in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, alongside notable teammates such as Clayton Kershaw, Corey Kluber, and Yovani Gallardo.
Gattis attended high schools in the Dallas area, including R. L. Turner High School, Forney High School, and Bishop Lynch High School, in order to pursue his passion for baseball. He played on traveling All-Star teams with Austin Jackson and participated in the Junior Olympic Games with Billy Butler, Homer Bailey, and Justin Upton.
Despite being a premier amateur baseball player, Gattis struggled with anxiety and substance abuse, which led him to abandon his scholarship to Texas A&M University. For four years, he wandered around the Western United States, eventually returning to baseball and getting drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2010.
Gattis worked his way up through the Braves' minor league system, eventually making the team's Opening Day roster in 2013. With Brian McCann on the disabled list, Gattis received significant playing time and won the National League Rookie of the Month Award for both April and May 2013.
In 2014, Gattis became the Braves' primary catcher, but was traded to the Houston Astros before the 2015 season. He continued to excel, eventually winning the 2017 World Series with the Astros over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Gattis' impressive career was marked by his raw power, earning him the nickname "El Oso Blanco" in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. He finished his MLB career with a .248 batting average, 139 home runs, and 421 RBIs.
Evan Gattis' inspiring story of overcoming personal struggles to achieve success in the MLB serves as a testament to his determination and perseverance. His impact on the sport is undeniable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players.
As "El Oso Blanco" steps away from the diamond, his unbridled power and unwavering dedication to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
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