Mark Ellis, a second baseman known for his defensive prowess and steady presence on the field, spent over a decade in Major League Baseball. Born on June 6, 1977, in Rapid City, South Dakota, Ellis grew up in a sports-oriented family and developed a passion for baseball early on. He attended the University of Florida, where he played college baseball for the Florida Gators, honing his skills and preparing for a professional career.
Ellis was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the ninth round of the 1999 MLB Draft. However, his journey to the majors began in earnest when he was traded to the Oakland Athletics in 2001. It was with the Athletics that Ellis made his MLB debut on April 9, 2002. Over the next several years, he became a fixture in the Athletics' infield, known for his reliable glove and solid batting.
Throughout his time with Oakland, Ellis developed a reputation as one of the league's best defensive second basemen. His fielding percentage consistently ranked among the top in the league, and he was often cited for his ability to turn double plays with ease. Offensively, Ellis was a consistent hitter, providing the Athletics with a dependable bat in the lineup. He had a career-high 19 home runs in 2007 and was known for his ability to get on base and drive in runs when needed.
In 2011, Ellis was traded to the Colorado Rockies, where he continued to demonstrate his defensive skills and contribute offensively. His stint with the Rockies was brief, as he signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers later that year. With the Dodgers, Ellis continued to be a steady presence both on and off the field. He played a crucial role in the team's infield and was part of the Dodgers' playoff runs during his tenure.
Ellis's career took him to the St. Louis Cardinals in 2014, where he played his final season. Although his time with the Cardinals was short, he brought veteran leadership and experience to the team. After the 2014 season, Ellis announced his retirement from professional baseball.
Over his career, Ellis was known for his work ethic and professionalism. He finished with a .262 batting average, 105 home runs, and 550 RBIs. His defensive skills were often highlighted, with a career fielding percentage of .991 at second base, placing him among the best in the game during his playing years.
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