Tom Prince

Tom Prince

Tom Prince was born on August 13th, 1964

Full Name: Thomas Michael Prince
Birthplace: Kannapolis, North Carolina
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Occupation: Baseball Player, Manager
Notable Team: Pittsburgh Pirates
Career Stats: 22 HR, 140 RBI
Spouse: Unknown
Children: Unknown

A former MLB catcher and manager, known for his playing career with the Pittsburgh Pirates and later managing the team to a playoff appearance in 2013.

Written by: Jack Thompson Jack Thompson

Tom Prince: The Defensive Catcher Who Excelled Behind the Plate

Tom Prince is a former professional baseball player and coach, best known for his exceptional defensive skills as a catcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1987 to 2003. With a career spanning 17 years, Prince played for several MLB teams, earning a reputation as a catcher with a strong throwing arm and astute game-calling abilities.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Prince was born on August 13, 1964, in Illinois, USA. He attended Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School, where he began to make a name for himself as a talented baseball player. Prince was drafted twice by the Atlanta Braves in 1983, but opted not to sign, instead choosing to attend Kankakee Community College.

Professional Career

The Pittsburgh Pirates drafted Prince in 1984, and he began his professional career in the Gulf Coast League. Throughout his minor league career, Prince demonstrated a strong defensive reputation, but his offensive production was inconsistent. He made his MLB debut in 1987 and went on to play for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Kansas City Royals.

Defensive Prowess

Prince's defensive skills were his strongest asset, earning him a reputation as one of the best defensive catchers in the game. He was known for his strong throwing arm, accurate game-calling, and ability to handle pitching staffs. Prince's defensive metrics were consistently above average, making him a valuable asset to his teams.

Post-Playing Career

After retiring from playing, Prince transitioned to coaching and managing in the minor league systems of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Detroit Tigers. He served as a catching instructor and coached several teams, helping to develop the skills of younger players.

Legacy and Impact

Tom Prince's 17-year MLB career and subsequent coaching career have left a lasting impact on the game. His defensive skills and knowledge of the game have influenced a generation of catchers and coaches. Prince's legacy serves as a testament to the importance of strong defense behind the plate.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Conclusion

Tom Prince's remarkable defensive skills and dedication to the game have earned him a place in baseball history. As a catcher, coach, and manager, Prince has made a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of players and coaches to excel behind the plate.

Timeline
1957
Born in Los Angeles
Tom Prince was born on August 13, 1957, in Los Angeles, California. He would go on to become a professional baseball player and manager.
1987
MLB Debut
Prince made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates, starting a 10-year career in professional baseball.
1993
Traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers
Prince was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he would spend the remainder of his playing career.
2000
Retired from Baseball
Prince retired from professional baseball, finishing his career with 324 games played.
2013
Became a Minor League Manager
Prince began his managerial career, working as a minor league manager for the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.
Tom Prince

Tom Prince Quiz

What team did Tom Prince manage to a playoff appearance in 2013?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What was Tom Princes role in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization?
Tom Prince played catcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1987 to 1993 and later worked as a coach and minor league manager for the team.
What was Tom Princes most notable achievement in baseball?
Tom Princes most notable achievement was winning the National League Championship Series with the Pirates in 1990 and 1991.
How did Tom Prince get his start in baseball?
Tom Prince was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1984 and made his MLB debut in 1987.
What has Tom Prince said about playing for the Pirates?
Tom Prince has spoken fondly of his time with the Pirates, citing the teams sense of camaraderie and the excitement of playing in front of the Pittsburgh crowd.
What is Tom Princes take on the importance of mentorship in baseball?
Tom Prince believes that mentorship is crucial in baseball, emphasizing the importance of experienced players guiding younger talent.

Related People:

Steve Yeager

77 Years Old

A catcher and coach with a 14-year MLB career, known for his strong defensive skills and World Series championships with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Johnny Bench

78 Years Old

Legendary catcher and broadcaster, known for his impressive defensive skills and charismatic on-air personality, earning him numerous awards and Hall of Fame induction.

Bob Boone

78 Years Old

A two-time All-Star catcher and later a manager, known for his strong defensive skills and leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a World Series title in 1980.

Darrell Porter

74 Years Old

A four-time MLB All-Star catcher and later a sportscaster, known for his impressive playing career and broadcasting work with the Cardinals and Royals.

Ted Simmons

76 Years Old

A talented catcher and coach who played 21 seasons in the MLB, earning eight All-Star selections and winning a Silver Slugger Award, known for his consistent hitting and strong defensive skills.

Gary Carter

72 Years Old

A Hall of Fame catcher and coach, known for his exceptional defensive skills and clutch hitting, earning him the nickname "The Kid."