Garry Templeton, a switch-hitting shortstop, made a name for himself in Major League Baseball with his exceptional speed and defensive skills. Born on March 24, 1956, in Lockney, Texas, Templeton was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the first round of the 1974 MLB Draft. He quickly rose through the minor league ranks, debuting in the majors in 1976.
Templeton's early years with the Cardinals were marked by his impressive batting and base-running abilities. In 1977, his first full season, he batted .322 and led the National League with 18 triples. The following year, he continued to excel, becoming the first player in MLB history to collect 100 hits from each side of the plate in a single season. His performance earned him a spot on the National League All-Star team in 1979 and 1980.
Despite his on-field success, Templeton's time with the Cardinals was not without controversy. In 1981, he was involved in a highly publicized incident where he made an obscene gesture to fans, leading to a suspension. This incident, coupled with his desire for a change of scenery, led to a trade to the San Diego Padres in December 1981. The trade was significant, as it involved another star shortstop, Ozzie Smith, moving to the Cardinals.
With the Padres, Templeton continued to demonstrate his skills as a reliable shortstop. He played a crucial role in the team's success during the mid-1980s, including their first-ever World Series appearance in 1984. That year, Templeton batted .258 and provided solid defense, helping the Padres win the National League pennant. Although they ultimately lost to the Detroit Tigers in the World Series, Templeton's performance was a highlight of his career.
Throughout his tenure with the Padres, Templeton remained a consistent presence on the field. He earned his third All-Star selection in 1985 and won a Silver Slugger Award in 1984. His leadership and experience were invaluable to the team, and he served as the Padres' captain for several seasons.
In 1991, Templeton was traded to the New York Mets, where he played his final season. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching and managing, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. Templeton's career in baseball extended beyond his playing days, as he took on roles in various minor league teams and independent leagues.
⚾
Related Content
Stories, Photos, Videos, Podcasts, and Publications featuring Garry Templeton Biography
