Jason LaRue's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the fifth round of the 1995 MLB Draft. A catcher by trade, LaRue made his major league debut with the Reds on June 15, 1999. Over the next several years, he established himself as a reliable presence behind the plate, known for his defensive skills and ability to handle a pitching staff.
During his tenure with the Reds, LaRue became a regular fixture in the lineup. He was particularly noted for his strong throwing arm, which helped him control the running game. Offensively, LaRue provided occasional power, hitting double-digit home runs in several seasons. His best offensive year came in 2005 when he hit 14 home runs and drove in 60 runs, contributing to the Reds' lineup with his bat as well as his glove.
In 2006, LaRue's time with the Reds came to an end when he was traded to the Kansas City Royals. His stint with the Royals was brief, as he spent just one season with the team. Despite the short duration, he continued to demonstrate his defensive capabilities and veteran leadership.
LaRue's career took another turn when he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008. Serving primarily as a backup catcher, he provided depth and experience to the Cardinals' roster. His role with the team was to mentor younger players and offer a steady presence in the clubhouse. LaRue was part of the Cardinals' roster during their postseason runs, including the 2009 season when the team reached the National League Division Series.
Unfortunately, LaRue's career came to an abrupt end in 2010 due to a concussion sustained during an on-field altercation. The injury, which occurred during a game against the Cincinnati Reds, led to lingering health issues that ultimately forced him to retire from professional baseball. Despite the premature end to his playing days, LaRue's career was marked by his defensive prowess and his ability to work effectively with pitchers.
Throughout his time in the majors, LaRue was respected for his work ethic and professionalism. His career statistics include a .231 batting average, 96 home runs, and 348 RBIs over 922 games.
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