Eric Byrnes, known for his energetic playing style and hustle on the field, spent his Major League Baseball career primarily as an outfielder. He was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the eighth round of the 1998 MLB Draft after playing college baseball at UCLA. Byrnes made his MLB debut with the Athletics in 2000, quickly gaining attention for his speed and defensive skills.
During his time with the Athletics, Byrnes became a fan favorite, known for his fearless approach to the game. He played with the team until 2005, showcasing his ability to cover ground in the outfield and contribute offensively. Byrnes' tenure with Oakland included a memorable 2003 season where he hit .263 with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs, helping the team reach the postseason.
In 2005, Byrnes was traded to the Colorado Rockies and later that year to the Baltimore Orioles. His stint with both teams was brief, but he continued to demonstrate his trademark hustle and enthusiasm. Byrnes' career took a positive turn when he signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2006. It was with the Diamondbacks that he enjoyed some of his most productive years.
The 2007 season was a standout year for Byrnes. He played a crucial role in leading the Diamondbacks to the National League Championship Series, hitting .286 with 21 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 50 stolen bases. His performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team and a long-term contract extension with Arizona.
Unfortunately, injuries began to take a toll on Byrnes' career. He struggled with hamstring issues and other ailments, which affected his playing time and performance in subsequent seasons. Despite these challenges, Byrnes remained a popular figure in the clubhouse and with fans for his positive attitude and work ethic.
In 2010, Byrnes was released by the Diamondbacks and briefly joined the Seattle Mariners. However, his time with the Mariners was short-lived, and he decided to retire from professional baseball later that year. After retiring, Byrnes transitioned to a career in broadcasting, bringing his insights and enthusiasm for the game to television and radio audiences.
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