During his tenure with the Dodgers, Beltré's skills continued to develop, culminating in an outstanding 2004 season. That year, he led the National League in home runs with 48 and finished second in the MVP voting. His performance caught the attention of the Seattle Mariners, who signed him to a five-year contract in 2005. While his time in Seattle was marked by solid defensive play and consistent offensive output, it wasn't until later in his career that Beltré truly flourished.
In 2010, Beltré joined the Boston Red Sox on a one-year deal. His season in Boston was impressive, as he posted a .321 batting average with 28 home runs and 102 RBIs. This performance helped him secure a long-term contract with the Texas Rangers, where he would spend the remainder of his career.
Beltré's years with the Rangers were some of the most productive of his career. He became known not only for his offensive prowess but also for his defensive excellence at third base. Beltré earned multiple Gold Glove Awards and Silver Slugger Awards during his time in Texas. His leadership and experience were invaluable to the team, and he played a crucial role in the Rangers' success, including their playoff runs.
One of the highlights of Beltré's career came on July 30, 2017, when he collected his 3,000th hit, becoming the 31st player in MLB history to reach this milestone. This achievement solidified his status as one of the game's greats and was a testament to his longevity and consistency.
Throughout his career, Beltré was known for his unique personality and sense of humor on the field. His playful interactions with teammates and umpires, as well as his distinctive on-field rituals, endeared him to fans and fellow players alike. Despite his lighthearted demeanor, Beltré was a fierce competitor who played the game with intensity and focus.
Adrián Beltré retired after the 2018 season, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest third basemen in MLB history. His career statistics include over 3,000 hits, 477 home runs, and 1,707 RBIs. Beltré's impact on the game was recognized with numerous accolades, and he is widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer.
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