Mark Whiten, known for his powerful arm and switch-hitting ability, played in Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder. Born on November 25, 1966, in Pensacola, Florida, Whiten's journey to the majors began when he was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth round of the 1986 amateur draft. He made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on July 12, 1990.
Whiten's career is often remembered for his remarkable performance on September 7, 1993, while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. In a game against the Cincinnati Reds, he achieved the rare feat of hitting four home runs in a single game, driving in 12 runs. This performance tied the major league records for both home runs and RBIs in a single game, etching his name in the annals of baseball history.
Throughout his career, Whiten played for several teams, including the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Seattle Mariners, and New York Yankees. His time with the Cardinals from 1993 to 1994 was particularly noteworthy, as he demonstrated his power-hitting capabilities and strong defensive skills in the outfield.
Whiten's defensive prowess was highlighted by his strong throwing arm, which made him a valuable asset in right field. His ability to throw out runners attempting to advance on the base paths was well-regarded, and he was often among the league leaders in outfield assists.
Despite his talents, Whiten's career was marked by inconsistency at the plate. He had a tendency to strike out, which affected his overall batting average. However, his power was undeniable, and he was capable of changing the outcome of a game with a single swing.
In addition to his time in the majors, Whiten also spent periods in the minor leagues, where he continued to refine his skills and contribute to his teams. His career statistics include a .259 batting average, 105 home runs, and 423 RBIs over 939 games.
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