James has drawn a free base 319 times while striking out on 309 tries. His on-base percentage sits at .363 and he has earned a career OPS of .444. He has recorded 363 runs in addition to having earned 266 RBIs. He has hit the long ball 32 times, in addition to having 1,063 total bases and a .081 slugging percentage. In the 2,720 at-bats in his MLB career, James has compiled an average at the plate of .288 with 783 hits.
For the season, James has scored 1 runs, knocked in 0 RBI and has hit 0 home runs. He has fanned 2 times while compiling 2 bases in total. He has tallied an OPS of 0.397 and a slugging % of .167. He has earned a walk 1 times and holds an OBP of .231. James has tallied 2 hits out of 12 at-bats and holds a batting average of .167.
| Year | Team | BA | HR | H | BB | R | RBI | OBP | PA | AB | OPS | OPS+ | 2B | 3B | G | SLG | SB | CS | TB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | .288 | 32 | 781 | 318 | 362 | 266 | .364 | 3,074 | 2,708 | .755 | 108 | 142 | 21 | 917 | .392 | 43 | 38 | 1,061 | 307 | |
| 1996 | NYY | .167 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | .231 | 13 | 12 | .397 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 6 | .167 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| 1995 | NYY | .287 | 2 | 60 | 20 | 22 | 26 | .346 | 231 | 209 | .700 | 84 | 6 | 1 | 85 | .354 | 4 | 1 | 74 | 16 |
| 1993 | NYY | .332 | 7 | 114 | 31 | 62 | 36 | .390 | 378 | 343 | .856 | 133 | 21 | 2 | 115 | .466 | 0 | 0 | 160 | 31 |
| 1992 | NYY | .262 | 3 | 38 | 22 | 24 | 17 | .359 | 170 | 145 | .738 | 109 | 8 | 0 | 67 | .379 | 1 | 0 | 55 | 15 |
| 1990 | CLE | .274 | 1 | 68 | 27 | 28 | 22 | .347 | 280 | 248 | .709 | 100 | 15 | 2 | 87 | .363 | 5 | 3 | 90 | 23 |
| 1989 | TOT | .287 | 5 | 119 | 49 | 41 | 40 | .363 | 471 | 415 | .729 | 107 | 18 | 0 | 134 | .366 | 2 | 7 | 152 | 49 |
| 1989 | ATL | .259 | 1 | 44 | 25 | 15 | 11 | .355 | 200 | 170 | .673 | 93 | 7 | 0 | 63 | .318 | 1 | 3 | 54 | 23 |
| 1989 | CLE | .306 | 4 | 75 | 24 | 26 | 29 | .368 | 271 | 245 | .768 | 116 | 11 | 0 | 71 | .400 | 1 | 4 | 98 | 26 |
| 1988 | ATL | .256 | 3 | 99 | 58 | 46 | 30 | .353 | 449 | 386 | .703 | 100 | 17 | 5 | 132 | .350 | 9 | 9 | 135 | 59 |
| 1987 | ATL | .312 | 10 | 154 | 70 | 80 | 61 | .397 | 574 | 494 | .869 | 126 | 37 | 6 | 134 | .472 | 10 | 8 | 233 | 63 |
| 1985 | MIL | .224 | 0 | 11 | 6 | 5 | 3 | .309 | 55 | 49 | .554 | 56 | 1 | 0 | 18 | .245 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 6 |
| 1984 | MIL | .295 | 1 | 114 | 32 | 52 | 30 | .351 | 431 | 387 | .728 | 106 | 19 | 5 | 128 | .377 | 10 | 10 | 146 | 41 |
| 1983 | MIL | .100 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | .182 | 22 | 20 | .282 | -17 | 0 | 0 | 11 | .100 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
Dion James is a name that resonates with baseball enthusiasts who followed Major League Baseball (MLB) during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Known for his versatility on the field and consistent performance, James carved out a solid career in the MLB, making a notable impact with his skills and dedication. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Dion James, exploring his early beginnings, major accomplishments, and the legacy he left in the world of baseball.
Early Life and Introduction to Baseball
Born on November 9, 1962, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dion James grew up in a city known for its rich sports culture. From a young age, he displayed a natural talent for baseball, which would eventually pave the way for his future career in the MLB.
James attended C.K. McClatchy High School in Sacramento, California, where he honed his skills in baseball. His impressive performance during his high school years caught the attention of major league scouts, setting the stage for his entry into professional baseball.
The Start of a Promising MLB Career
Dion James was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the first round of the 1980 MLB Draft. His selection was a testament to his potential and the promise he showed as a young player. James made his MLB debut with the Brewers on September 16, 1983, marking the beginning of a career that would span over a decade.
Rise to Prominence
James quickly established himself as a reliable outfielder and a consistent hitter. In his rookie season in 1984, he played in 108 games, showcasing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. His batting average of .295 in his debut year was a clear indication of his batting prowess.
A Key Player for the Atlanta Braves
In 1987, Dion James was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he would spend a significant portion of his MLB career. It was with the Braves that James truly made a name for himself. During his time in Atlanta, he became known for his versatility, playing both in the outfield and occasionally stepping in as a designated hitter.
James’ performance in the 1987 season was particularly noteworthy. He achieved a career-high batting average of .312, proving to be a valuable asset to the Braves’ lineup. His ability to get on base and drive in runs made him a key player for the team during his tenure.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Consistent Performance
Throughout his MLB career, Dion James was known for his consistent performance at the plate. He had a knack for hitting in clutch situations, often delivering when his team needed it most. His career batting average of .288 is a testament to his skill as a hitter.
Versatility in the Outfield
James’ versatility in the outfield was another hallmark of his career. He played all three outfield positions, showcasing his defensive prowess and strong arm. His ability to adapt to different roles made him an invaluable player for the teams he played for.
A Memorable Playoff Appearance
One of the standout moments in Dion James’ career came during the 1989 season when he played for the Cleveland Indians. Although the Indians did not make the playoffs that year, James’ performance was a highlight. His contributions on the field were recognized by fans and teammates alike, solidifying his reputation as a reliable player.
Later Years and Retirement
After leaving the Braves, Dion James went on to play for the Cleveland Indians and the New York Yankees. Although his later years in the MLB were not as prolific as his time with the Braves, he continued to contribute as a seasoned veteran, providing leadership and experience to his teams.
James retired from professional baseball after the 1996 season. His career spanned 11 years, during which he played in over 1,000 MLB games. His contributions to the sport were significant, and he left a lasting impact on the teams he played for and the fans who watched him.
Legacy and Impact
Dion James may not be a household name like some of his contemporaries, but his impact on the MLB is undeniable. He was a player who exemplified consistency, versatility, and professionalism. His dedication to the game and his ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the baseball community.
Influence on Future Generations
James’ career serves as an inspiration for young baseball players who aspire to make it to the major leagues. His journey from high school standout to MLB veteran is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. For many, Dion James represents the ideal of a professional athlete who quietly goes about his business, making a significant impact without seeking the spotlight.
Remembering Dion James
Although Dion James has been retired for several years, his legacy lives on through the memories of fans and the records he set during his career. His contributions to the teams he played for and his influence on the game of baseball remain part of his enduring legacy.
Conclusion
Dion James’ career in Major League Baseball is a story of perseverance, skill, and quiet determination. From his early days in Philadelphia to his time with the Milwaukee Brewers, Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians, and New York Yankees, James demonstrated what it means to be a professional athlete.
His consistent performance, versatility on the field, and ability to rise to the occasion made him a valuable player throughout his career. As we look back on the legacy of Dion James, we remember not just a talented baseball player, but a dedicated individual who left a mark on the game he loved.