Mike Leake, a right-handed pitcher, began his Major League Baseball career with the Cincinnati Reds. Drafted eighth overall in the 2009 MLB Draft out of Arizona State University, Leake made an immediate leap to the majors without spending any time in the minor leagues. This rare achievement highlighted his readiness and skill level, as he became the first player since Xavier Nady in 2000 to go directly to the majors after being drafted.
Leake debuted for the Reds on April 11, 2010, against the Chicago Cubs. In his first season, he posted a 4.23 ERA over 24 starts, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level. His rookie season was marked by a strong start, as he went undefeated in his first ten starts, showcasing his potential as a reliable starter for the Reds.
Over the next few seasons, Leake solidified his role in the Reds' rotation. In 2011, he improved his ERA to 3.86 and recorded 12 wins. His performance was consistent, and he became known for his control and ability to induce ground balls. Leake's pitching style relied on a mix of sinkers, cutters, and changeups, which kept hitters off balance and allowed him to maintain a steady presence on the mound.
In 2012, Leake contributed to the Reds' successful season, helping them secure the National League Central Division title. He made 30 starts that year, finishing with an 8-9 record and a 4.58 ERA. The Reds reached the postseason, although Leake did not appear in the playoffs.
Leake continued to be a dependable starter for Cincinnati through the 2014 season. In 2013, he achieved a career-high 14 wins and posted a 3.37 ERA, one of his best statistical seasons. His performance helped the Reds reach the postseason once again, although they were eliminated in the Wild Card game.
The 2014 season saw Leake maintain his consistency, as he recorded a 3.70 ERA over 33 starts. His durability and ability to pitch deep into games were valuable assets for the Reds. However, as the team began to rebuild, Leake's future with the organization became uncertain.
In July 2015, the Reds traded Leake to the San Francisco Giants in exchange for two prospects. His tenure with the Giants was brief, as he became a free agent at the end of the season. Leake signed a five-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals in December 2015, marking a new chapter in his career.
Leake's time with the Cardinals was marked by ups and downs. In 2016, he posted a 9-12 record with a 4.69 ERA, struggling at times to find consistency. However, he rebounded in 2017, starting the season strong with a 2.24 ERA through his first 11 starts. Despite his early success, he finished the year with a 10-13 record and a 4.69 ERA.
In August 2017, the Cardinals traded Leake to the Seattle Mariners. He quickly adapted to his new team, posting a 2.53 ERA in five starts to close out the season. Leake remained with the Mariners for the 2018 and 2019 seasons, providing stability to their rotation. In 2018, he recorded a 10-10 record with a 4.36 ERA over 31 starts.
Leake's 2019 season was split between the Mariners and the Arizona Diamondbacks, following a trade deadline move. He finished the year with a combined 12-11 record and a 4.29 ERA. Known for his durability, Leake consistently pitched over 175 innings each season, showcasing his ability to remain a reliable option for teams in need of starting pitching depth.
Throughout his career, Leake was recognized for his athleticism and occasionally contributed offensively, a rarity for pitchers in the National League. His ability to handle the bat added an extra dimension to his game, making him a valuable asset in the lineup.
⚾