Franklin Gutierrez, a Venezuelan-born outfielder, began his Major League Baseball career with the Cleveland Indians. Signed as an amateur free agent in 2000, Gutierrez made his MLB debut with the Indians in 2005. Known for his defensive prowess, he quickly gained a reputation as a reliable center fielder. His time with Cleveland saw him gradually develop his skills, both in the field and at the plate.
In 2008, Gutierrez was traded to the Seattle Mariners as part of a three-team deal. It was with the Mariners that he truly found his stride. The 2009 season marked a breakout year for Gutierrez, as he showcased his defensive abilities by leading all major league outfielders in Ultimate Zone Rating (UZR), a sabermetric statistic that measures fielding prowess. His exceptional performance earned him the Fielding Bible Award for best defensive center fielder.
Gutierrez's defensive skills were complemented by his offensive contributions. In 2009, he posted a .283 batting average with 18 home runs and 70 RBIs, solidifying his role as a valuable player for the Mariners. His ability to cover ground in the outfield and his strong arm made him a fan favorite in Seattle.
However, Gutierrez's career was not without challenges. He faced numerous health issues, including stomach problems and a series of injuries that limited his playing time. Despite these setbacks, he continued to demonstrate resilience and determination, returning to the field whenever possible.
In 2014, Gutierrez took a hiatus from baseball to focus on his health. He returned to the Mariners in 2015, signing a minor league contract and eventually making his way back to the major league roster. His comeback was marked by a strong performance, as he hit .292 with 15 home runs in just 59 games during the 2015 season.
Gutierrez continued to play for the Mariners until 2016, when he became a free agent and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2017 season. Unfortunately, his time with the Dodgers was marred by injuries, and he was limited to just 35 games. After the 2017 season, Gutierrez did not return to Major League Baseball.
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