Craig Reynolds, a left-handed hitting shortstop, spent his Major League Baseball career primarily with the Houston Astros and the Seattle Mariners. Born on December 27, 1952, in Houston, Texas, Reynolds grew up in a city that would later become a significant part of his professional life. He attended Reagan High School in Houston, where his baseball talents began to shine, eventually leading him to be drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first round of the 1971 MLB Draft.
Reynolds made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 1975, but his time with the team was brief. In December 1976, he was traded to the Seattle Mariners, a move that provided him with the opportunity to establish himself as a regular player. During his tenure with the Mariners, Reynolds became known for his defensive skills and steady presence at shortstop. In 1978, he was selected to the American League All-Star team, a testament to his performance on the field.
In December 1978, Reynolds was traded to the Houston Astros, marking the beginning of a long and stable period in his career. Returning to his hometown, he quickly became a fixture in the Astros' infield. His defensive prowess continued to be his hallmark, and he was recognized for his abilities with a selection to the National League All-Star team in 1979.
Reynolds' time with the Astros was marked by consistency and reliability. He played a crucial role in the team's success during the late 1970s and 1980s, including their first-ever playoff appearance in 1980. Known for his strong arm and quick reflexes, Reynolds was a key component of the Astros' defense. Although not known for his power hitting, he contributed offensively with timely hits and a respectable batting average.
Throughout his career, Reynolds was appreciated for his work ethic and professionalism. He was a player who could be counted on to perform his role effectively, providing stability to the teams he played for. His career statistics include a .256 batting average, 42 home runs, and 377 RBIs over 1,491 games. These numbers reflect his role as a dependable player who contributed both in the field and at the plate.
Reynolds retired from professional baseball after the 1989 season, leaving behind a legacy of solid defensive play and steady performance. His career spanned 15 seasons, during which he earned respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. After retiring, Reynolds remained connected to the sport, participating in various baseball-related activities and events.
⚾