Kris Medlen's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. Born on October 7, 1985, in Artesia, California, Medlen attended Santa Ana College before transferring to California State University, Northridge. His talent on the mound caught the attention of the Atlanta Braves, who selected him in the 10th round of the 2006 MLB Draft.
Medlen made his MLB debut with the Braves on May 21, 2009. Initially, he served as a relief pitcher, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations. His versatility allowed him to transition between the bullpen and the starting rotation, a role he embraced with skill and determination. In 2010, Medlen's season was cut short due to an elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery, a significant setback for any pitcher.
After a year of rehabilitation, Medlen returned to the Braves in 2012, where he delivered an impressive performance. He was moved into the starting rotation mid-season and quickly became one of the most effective pitchers in the league. Medlen's remarkable run included a stretch where the Braves won 23 consecutive games that he started, a testament to his consistency and effectiveness on the mound. His efforts earned him the National League Pitcher of the Month award for August 2012.
The 2013 season saw Medlen continue to excel as a starter, helping the Braves secure a division title. However, his career faced another hurdle in 2014 when he suffered a second elbow injury, necessitating another Tommy John surgery. This injury sidelined him for the entire season, and he was subsequently released by the Braves.
In December 2014, Medlen signed with the Kansas City Royals, seeking a fresh start. He made his return to the majors in 2015, contributing both as a starter and reliever. Medlen's efforts were instrumental in the Royals' successful campaign, culminating in a World Series victory that year. Although he did not pitch in the postseason, his role during the regular season was valued by the team.
Medlen's time with the Royals was marred by injuries, limiting his appearances in the following seasons. He was released by the Royals in 2016 but continued to pursue his career. In 2018, Medlen signed a minor league contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, making a brief return to the majors before announcing his retirement from professional baseball later that year.
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