Kevin Seitzer's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 11th round of the 1983 amateur draft. He made his major league debut with the Royals on September 3, 1986. Seitzer quickly established himself as a reliable third baseman and a consistent hitter. In his first full season in 1987, he impressed the baseball world by hitting .323 with 15 home runs and 83 RBIs. His performance earned him a spot on the American League All-Star team and he finished second in the Rookie of the Year voting.
Seitzer's ability to hit for average was one of his defining characteristics. Over the course of his career, he maintained a batting average of .295. He was known for his disciplined approach at the plate, often drawing more walks than strikeouts. This keen eye helped him maintain a high on-base percentage, making him a valuable asset to any lineup.
After several productive seasons with the Royals, Seitzer was released by the team in 1991. He then signed with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he continued to be a consistent performer. During his time with the Brewers, Seitzer transitioned from third base to first base, showcasing his adaptability on the field. In 1992, he hit .270 with 5 home runs and 54 RBIs, proving to be a steady presence in the Brewers' lineup.
Seitzer's tenure with the Brewers lasted until 1996, when he was traded to the Oakland Athletics. His time with the Athletics was brief, as he was released after the 1996 season. However, he found a new home with the Cleveland Indians in 1997. With the Indians, Seitzer played a supporting role, contributing to the team's successful season that culminated in an appearance in the World Series. Although the Indians fell short, losing to the Florida Marlins, Seitzer's veteran presence was valued in the clubhouse.
Throughout his career, Seitzer was known for his professionalism and work ethic. He was a player who consistently put the team first and was respected by teammates and opponents alike. His career came to an end after the 1997 season, but his legacy as a reliable hitter and team player remains.
After retiring as a player, Seitzer transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with a new generation of players. His post-playing career included stints as a hitting coach for several major league teams, where he continued to influence the game he loved.
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