Manuel Lee, a professional baseball infielder, spent a decade in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Toronto Blue Jays and later with the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals. Born on June 5, 1965, in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, Lee began his journey in professional baseball when he was signed by the Toronto Blue Jays as an amateur free agent in 1982.
Lee made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on September 2, 1985. Initially, he played a supporting role, often coming off the bench or filling in for injured players. His defensive skills were his standout attribute, particularly his ability to play multiple infield positions, including shortstop, second base, and third base. This flexibility made him a valuable asset to the Blue Jays' roster.
Throughout his tenure with Toronto, Lee's role evolved. By the late 1980s, he had become a regular fixture in the Blue Jays' lineup. In 1989, he played in 142 games, posting a batting average of .263 and contributing to the team's efforts to secure a division title. His performance during this period was characterized by solid defense and timely hitting, which helped the Blue Jays remain competitive in the American League East.
The 1992 season marked a high point in Lee's career. He was part of the Blue Jays team that won the World Series, defeating the Atlanta Braves in six games. Although primarily known for his defensive prowess, Lee contributed offensively during the postseason, helping the Blue Jays capture their first championship. His role in the 1992 World Series highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and his importance to the team's overall success.
Following the 1992 season, Lee signed with the Texas Rangers as a free agent. His time with the Rangers saw him continue to provide reliable defense and occasional offensive contributions. However, his batting average dipped during his stint with Texas, and he struggled to replicate the success he had experienced in Toronto.
In 1995, Lee joined the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played his final season in Major League Baseball. His time with the Cardinals was brief, and he retired from professional baseball after the season concluded.
Throughout his career, Manuel Lee was known for his defensive capabilities and his ability to adapt to various infield positions.
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