Eric Munson's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was selected as the third overall pick in the 1999 MLB Draft by the Detroit Tigers. A promising catcher from the University of Southern California, Munson was highly regarded for his power-hitting potential. His transition to the major leagues was closely watched by those who had followed his collegiate career.
Munson made his MLB debut with the Tigers in 2000. Initially, he played as a catcher, but his role evolved over time. The Tigers experimented with him at various positions, including first base and third base, to capitalize on his offensive capabilities. Despite the high expectations, Munson's early years in the majors were marked by challenges as he worked to find consistency at the plate.
In 2003, Munson began to show glimpses of his power-hitting ability. That season, he hit 18 home runs, a career-high, and drove in 50 runs. His performance provided a spark for the Tigers, who were in the midst of rebuilding. However, his batting average remained a concern, as he struggled to maintain a high on-base percentage.
Munson's tenure with the Tigers lasted until 2004. Afterward, he spent time with several other MLB teams, including the Houston Astros, Oakland Athletics, and Tampa Bay Rays. His role varied from team to team, often serving as a backup or platoon player. Despite the frequent changes, Munson continued to demonstrate his power potential, albeit inconsistently.
In 2007, Munson joined the Milwaukee Brewers organization, where he played primarily in the minor leagues. His experience and leadership were valuable assets to the younger players on the team. Munson's professional career continued until 2009, when he decided to retire from playing.
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