Herbert Perry, known to fans as "The Milkman," played Major League Baseball primarily as a third baseman and first baseman. Born on September 15, 1969, in Live Oak, Florida, Perry attended the University of Florida, where he played college baseball for the Florida Gators. His performance in college caught the attention of MLB scouts, and he was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the second round of the 1991 MLB Draft.
Perry made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Indians on May 3, 1994. During his time with the Indians, he played in a limited capacity, often serving as a backup infielder. His tenure with Cleveland was marked by sporadic appearances, as he struggled to secure a regular spot in the lineup. Despite these challenges, Perry demonstrated a solid batting ability when given the opportunity.
In 1998, Perry's career took a turn when he was claimed off waivers by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. This move provided him with more playing time and a chance to showcase his skills on a regular basis. During his stint with the Devil Rays, Perry's batting average improved, and he became known for his ability to hit for power. His time in Tampa Bay was a period of growth, as he transitioned from a backup role to a more consistent presence on the field.
Perry's journey continued when he was traded to the Chicago White Sox in 1999. It was with the White Sox that he enjoyed some of his most productive seasons. In 2000, Perry had a breakout year, hitting .308 with 12 home runs and 61 RBIs. His performance helped the White Sox secure a playoff berth, and he played a key role in their postseason run. Perry's ability to deliver in clutch situations endeared him to the Chicago fan base, and he became a reliable contributor to the team's success during his tenure.
After his time with the White Sox, Perry signed with the Texas Rangers in 2002. With the Rangers, he continued to be a valuable asset, providing veteran leadership and a steady bat. Perry's versatility allowed him to fill various roles on the team, and he remained a consistent performer at the plate. His experience and professionalism were appreciated by teammates and coaches alike.
Perry's career in the major leagues concluded with the Texas Rangers in 2004. Over the course of his MLB career, he played in 582 games, accumulating a .272 batting average, 55 home runs, and 246 RBIs. While he may not have been a household name, Perry's contributions to the teams he played for were respected by those within the baseball community.
After retiring from professional baseball, Perry returned to his roots in Florida, where he became involved in various business ventures.
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