A power-hitting outfielder and first baseman with a strong on-base percentage, known for his dominant play and clutch hitting in the MLB playoffs.
Lance Berkman, affectionately known as "The Big Puma," is a six-time MLB All-Star and World Series champion, who left an indelible mark on the game with his exceptional skills as an outfielder and first baseman. Throughout his 15-year career, Berkman showcased his prowess, earning him a reputation as one of the most feared hitters in the league.
Born on February 10, 1976, in Waco, Texas, Berkman grew up with a passion for baseball. He excelled at Canyon High School, earning him a spot on the Rice University Owls baseball team. During his college years, Berkman's impressive performance caught the attention of scouts, leading to his selection by the Houston Astros in the first round of the 1997 amateur draft.
Berkman made his major league debut in 1999, joining the Astros' vaunted "Killer Bs" lineup alongside Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio. This talented trio Instrumental in the team's playoff success, Berkman's impressive batting average and power hitting made him a fan favorite. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team in 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2008, and 2011.
In 2011, Berkman signed with the St. Louis Cardinals as a free agent, where he played a crucial role in the team's World Series championship. In Game 6, Berkman hit a game-tying single in the bottom of the tenth inning, with the Cardinals just one strike away from elimination. This memorable moment earned him the National League Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Berkman played for the Yankees in 2010 and the Rangers in 2013 before signing a one-day contract with the Astros to officially retire as an Astro in 2014. Throughout his career, Berkman achieved impressive milestones, including an adjusted on-base plus slugging (OPS) at 150 or above six times, 100 walks in a season three times, and 100 RBIs in a season six times.
Off the field, Berkman is known for his charitable work, earning him a spot on Forbes' list of 30 most generous celebrities. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including the Berkman Family Foundation, which supports education and children's health initiatives. Berkman's remarkable career and philanthropic efforts have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in baseball history.
After his retirement, Berkman went on to become the head baseball coach of the Houston Christian Huskies, a position he held until 2020. His passion for the game and dedication to nurturing young talent have made him a respected figure in the baseball community.
63 Years Old
Legendary pitcher with 7 Cy Young Awards, known for his dominant fastball and controversy surrounding steroid use.
53 Years Old
A left-handed pitcher with 219 wins, five World Series championships, and a strong postseason record, known for his clutch performances and durability.
57 Years Old
A legendary slugger and four-time All-Star, known for his impressive power-hitting and dominant play at first base during the 1990s and early 2000s.
60 Years Old
Hall of Fame second baseman and catcher who played 20 seasons with the Houston Astros, earning 7 All-Star selections and 5 Silver Slugger Awards. He's most known for being part of the "Killer B's" trio with Jeff Bagwell and Lance Berkman.
51 Years Old
A legendary shortstop who played his entire 20-year career with the New York Yankees, winning five World Series championships and earning numerous accolades. He's a baseball icon and revered for his clutch performances and leadership.
56 Years Old
Legendary baseball closer with a record 652 saves and five World Series championships, widely regarded as one of the greatest relief pitchers in MLB history.
50 Years Old
Professional baseball player who played for the New York Yankees and holds numerous records, including 696 home runs, earning him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
46 Years Old
A dominant switch-hitting first baseman with 409 career home runs, known for his impressive power and eight Gold Glove Awards.
