Matthew LeCroy was born on December 13th, 1975

Written by: Isabel Sanchez

Matthew LeCroy: The Power-Hitting Catcher with a Unique MLB Record

Matthew LeCroy is a former professional baseball catcher, first baseman, and designated hitter, best known for holding the distinction of being the active player with the most plate appearances without a stolen base in his career. This peculiar record has etched his name in the annals of MLB history, making him a fascinating figure in the world of baseball.

Born on December 13, 1975, LeCroy graduated from Belton-Honea Path High School in Honea Path, South Carolina, before attending Clemson University to pursue a degree in elementary education. During his time at Clemson, he was named to the 1996 U.S. Olympic Baseball Team, helping the team secure a bronze medal at the Olympic Games.

In 1997, LeCroy was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the first round (50th overall) of the MLB Draft. Despite struggling defensively behind the plate, he impressed with his power-hitting abilities, slamming 101 home runs over five years in the Twins' minor league system.

LeCroy made his MLB debut in 2000, but it wasn't until 2002 that he became a regular in the Twins' lineup. He went on to play for the Twins until 2005, and later had stints with the Washington Nationals and Oakland Athletics. Throughout his career, LeCroy played a total of 476 games, with 234 of those games coming as a designated hitter.

In addition to his MLB career, LeCroy represented the United States at the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where the team took second place behind Cuba.

After retiring from professional baseball, LeCroy went on to manage the Rochester Red Wings, the Triple-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins.

• LeCroy's power-hitting abilities earned him a spot on the 1996 U.S. Olympic Baseball Team, which won a bronze medal.
• In his minor league career, LeCroy averaged over 20 home runs per season.
• LeCroy holds the record for most games played as a designated hitter (234) without a single stolen base.

Matthew LeCroy's unique blend of power-hitting abilities and defensive struggles has cemented his place in MLB history. Despite not being a household name, his intriguing career path and records make him a fascinating figure in the world of baseball.