Brian McCann's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the second round of the 2002 MLB Draft. A native of Athens, Georgia, McCann quickly rose through the ranks of the Braves' minor league system, making his major league debut on June 10, 2005. As a catcher, McCann was known for his strong defensive skills and ability to handle a pitching staff, which made him an integral part of the Braves' lineup.
In his rookie season, McCann played in 59 games, hitting .278 with 5 home runs and 23 RBIs. His performance earned him a spot as the Braves' starting catcher, a role he would maintain for several years. The following season, McCann solidified his reputation as one of the league's top catchers by hitting .333 with 24 home runs and 93 RBIs, earning his first All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award.
McCann's offensive prowess continued to shine throughout his career. He was selected to the All-Star team seven times between 2006 and 2013 and won six Silver Slugger Awards during that span. His ability to hit for power and average made him a consistent threat in the Braves' lineup. In 2008, McCann hit .301 with 23 home runs and 87 RBIs, further establishing himself as one of the premier catchers in the game.
In addition to his offensive skills, McCann was highly regarded for his defensive abilities. He was adept at managing pitchers and was known for his strong arm and quick release, which helped him throw out a significant number of base stealers. His leadership on the field was evident, as he often took charge of the game from behind the plate.
After spending nine seasons with the Braves, McCann signed a five-year contract with the New York Yankees in 2013. His tenure with the Yankees saw him continue to produce solid numbers, including hitting 20 or more home runs in each of his first three seasons in New York. McCann's experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the Yankees, both on and off the field.
In 2017, McCann was traded to the Houston Astros, where he played a crucial role in the team's success. That year, the Astros won the World Series, and McCann's leadership and experience were instrumental in guiding the team's young pitching staff. He contributed both offensively and defensively throughout the season, helping the Astros secure their first championship in franchise history.
McCann returned to the Braves for the 2019 season, signing a one-year contract to play for his hometown team. It was a fitting conclusion to his career, as he announced his retirement at the end of the season. Over his 15-year career, McCann accumulated 282 home runs, 1,018 RBIs, and a .262 batting average. His achievements on the field earned him respect and admiration from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
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