Ed Sprague's journey through Major League Baseball is marked by his tenure as a third baseman and occasional first baseman. Born on July 25, 1967, in Castro Valley, California, Sprague grew up in a baseball environment, as his father, Ed Sprague Sr., was also a professional baseball player. This familial connection to the sport laid the foundation for his future in baseball.
Sprague attended Stanford University, where he played college baseball for the Stanford Cardinal. His time at Stanford was highlighted by winning two College World Series titles in 1987 and 1988. His performance in college caught the attention of Major League scouts, and he was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the first round of the 1988 MLB Draft.
Sprague made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays on May 7, 1991. Initially, he played a supporting role, but his potential was evident. He became a more regular presence in the lineup during the 1992 season. That year, he played a part in the Blue Jays' World Series victory, contributing a memorable home run in Game 2 against the Atlanta Braves. This home run was a pivotal moment in the series, helping the Blue Jays secure their first championship.
The following year, Sprague continued to develop as a player and was part of the Blue Jays' roster that won a second consecutive World Series title in 1993. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations was demonstrated once again during the postseason.
Throughout his time with the Blue Jays, Sprague became known for his power-hitting capabilities. In 1996, he achieved a personal milestone by hitting 36 home runs, which was a career-high for him. This performance earned him a spot in the 1999 MLB All-Star Game, a testament to his abilities on the field.
After his stint with the Blue Jays, Sprague's career saw him play for several other teams. In 1998, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics, where he spent part of the season before moving to the Pittsburgh Pirates. His time with the Pirates was brief, and he later joined the San Diego Padres in 1999. Sprague's journey continued with the Boston Red Sox in 2000, and he concluded his MLB career with the Seattle Mariners in 2001.
Throughout his career, Sprague was recognized for his defensive skills at third base and his power at the plate. He finished his career with a total of 152 home runs and 558 RBIs. While his batting average was .247, his ability to deliver in clutch moments and his contributions to two World Series championships remain highlights of his career.
After retiring from professional baseball, Sprague transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He served as a coach for various teams, including a position as the head coach for the University of the Pacific's baseball team. His post-playing career reflects his continued involvement in the sport and his desire to mentor the next generation of players.
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