Dee Strange-Gordon, known for his speed and agility on the baseball field, began his Major League Baseball career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Drafted by the Dodgers in the fourth round of the 2008 MLB Draft, he made his MLB debut on June 6, 2011. As a shortstop and second baseman, Strange-Gordon quickly gained attention for his base-stealing prowess and ability to cover ground defensively.
During his time with the Dodgers, Strange-Gordon showcased his exceptional speed, leading the National League in stolen bases in 2014 with 64 steals. This performance earned him a spot in the All-Star Game that year, highlighting his growing reputation as one of the fastest players in the league. His tenure with the Dodgers also saw him improve his batting skills, contributing significantly to the team's offensive lineup.
In December 2014, Strange-Gordon was traded to the Miami Marlins in a multi-player deal. His first season with the Marlins in 2015 was a standout year. He led the National League in batting average (.333), hits (205), and stolen bases (58), becoming the first player since Jackie Robinson to lead the league in both batting average and stolen bases in the same season. This remarkable achievement earned him his second All-Star selection, a Silver Slugger Award, and a Gold Glove Award, underscoring his dual threat as both a hitter and a fielder.
Strange-Gordon's time with the Marlins was not without challenges. In 2016, he faced a setback when he was suspended for 80 games due to a violation of MLB's performance-enhancing drug policy. Despite this, he returned to the field and continued to be a valuable player for the Marlins, maintaining his speed and defensive skills.
In 2017, Strange-Gordon once again led the National League in stolen bases with 60, proving his consistency as a base-stealer. Following the 2017 season, he was traded to the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners transitioned him to center field, a move that demonstrated his adaptability and athleticism. Although primarily known for his infield play, Strange-Gordon embraced the new role and continued to contribute to his team's efforts.
Throughout his career, Strange-Gordon was recognized for his speed, leading the league in stolen bases on multiple occasions. His ability to change the dynamics of a game with his base-running was a constant threat to opposing teams. While his offensive numbers fluctuated, his defensive versatility allowed him to play multiple positions, including shortstop, second base, and center field.
Off the field, Strange-Gordon was known for his charitable work and community involvement. He established the Flash of Hope program, which supports children who have experienced the loss of a parent. This initiative was inspired by his own experiences, as he lost his mother at a young age.
⚾