Ray Durham, a dynamic second baseman, began his Major League Baseball career with the Chicago White Sox. Drafted by the team in the fifth round of the 1990 MLB Draft, Durham made his debut on April 26, 1995. His rookie season set the tone for what would be a consistent and productive career. Known for his speed and ability to get on base, Durham quickly established himself as a reliable leadoff hitter.
Throughout his tenure with the White Sox, Durham was a fixture at the top of the lineup. He consistently posted impressive numbers, both in terms of batting average and stolen bases. In 1998, he earned his first All-Star selection, a testament to his performance and value to the team. That year, he hit .285 with 19 home runs and 67 RBIs, while also stealing 36 bases. His ability to combine power and speed made him a valuable asset to the White Sox.
Durham's second All-Star appearance came in 2000, a season in which he played a crucial role in helping the White Sox reach the playoffs. That year, he batted .280, hit 17 home runs, and drove in 75 runs. His performance was instrumental in the team's success, and he continued to be a key player for Chicago until he was traded to the Oakland Athletics in 2002.
Joining the Athletics, Durham provided a veteran presence and continued to deliver solid performances. In the latter part of the 2002 season, he helped Oakland secure a playoff berth. His time with the Athletics was brief, but he made a positive impression during his stint with the team.
In 2003, Durham signed with the San Francisco Giants, where he would spend the next several years of his career. With the Giants, he continued to be a productive player, often batting near the top of the order. In 2006, Durham had one of his best seasons, hitting .293 with 26 home runs and 93 RBIs. His offensive output was a highlight for the Giants, and he remained a steady contributor during his time in San Francisco.
Durham's career with the Giants lasted until 2008, when he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers. With the Brewers, he provided depth and experience as the team made a push for the playoffs. Although his time in Milwaukee was short, he played an important role in the team's late-season efforts.
Over the course of his career, Ray Durham was known for his ability to get on base, steal bases, and provide occasional power. He finished his career with a .277 batting average, 192 home runs, and 273 stolen bases. His consistency and ability to perform at a high level over many years made him a respected player in the league.
Durham retired from professional baseball after the 2008 season, leaving behind a legacy of reliability and skill.
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