Chris James, an American professional baseball player, spent nearly a decade in Major League Baseball (MLB) as an outfielder and first baseman. Born on October 4, 1962, in Houston, Texas, James demonstrated his athletic prowess early on, eventually leading him to a career in the major leagues. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 11th round of the 1984 MLB Draft, marking the beginning of his journey in professional baseball.
James made his MLB debut with the Phillies on June 2, 1986. During his time with Philadelphia, he showcased his abilities as a reliable player, contributing both offensively and defensively. In 1987, he played in 101 games, hitting .245 with 11 home runs and 46 RBIs. His performance helped solidify his place on the team, and he continued to develop his skills over the next few seasons.
In 1989, James was traded to the San Diego Padres, where he continued to demonstrate his capabilities on the field. That year, he achieved a career-high batting average of .279, along with 10 home runs and 52 RBIs. His time with the Padres was marked by consistent play, and he became a valuable asset to the team's lineup.
James's career saw him move to several teams, including the San Francisco Giants, where he played during the 1990 season. His tenure with the Giants was brief, but he managed to maintain his performance level, contributing to the team's efforts throughout the season.
The Cleveland Indians acquired James in 1991, and he spent two seasons with the team. During his time with the Indians, he continued to be a steady presence on the field, providing both offensive and defensive support. In 1991, he hit .238 with 11 home runs and 55 RBIs, further establishing himself as a dependable player.
In 1992, James joined the Texas Rangers, where he played for two seasons. His stint with the Rangers was marked by a memorable game on May 4, 1991, when he hit three home runs and drove in nine runs in a single game against the Oakland Athletics. This performance tied the American League record for most RBIs in a game, showcasing his ability to deliver exceptional performances.
James's career continued with the Houston Astros in 1993, followed by a brief period with the Boston Red Sox in 1995. Throughout his career, he was known for his adaptability, playing multiple positions and adjusting to the needs of each team he joined.
Over the course of his MLB career, Chris James played in 610 games, achieving a batting average of .261, with 90 home runs and 386 RBIs.
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