Scott Hairston, an American professional baseball outfielder, spent a decade in Major League Baseball (MLB) showcasing his skills across several teams. Born on May 25, 1980, in Fort Worth, Texas, Hairston grew up in a family with a rich baseball heritage. His father, Jerry Hairston Sr., and his brother, Jerry Hairston Jr., both played in the major leagues, which undoubtedly influenced Scott's path in the sport.
Hairston attended Canyon del Oro High School in Oro Valley, Arizona, where he excelled in baseball. He further honed his skills at Central Arizona College, a stepping stone that led him to be drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the third round of the 2001 MLB Draft. Hairston made his MLB debut with the Diamondbacks on May 7, 2004. During his rookie season, he played in 101 games, hitting .248 with 13 home runs and 29 RBIs, showing promise as a power hitter.
In 2007, Hairston was traded to the San Diego Padres, where he continued to develop his reputation as a reliable outfielder and a solid hitter. His time with the Padres was marked by several memorable performances, including a game-winning home run in the 10th inning against the San Francisco Giants on July 27, 2007. Hairston's ability to deliver in clutch situations made him a valuable asset to the team.
The Oakland Athletics acquired Hairston in July 2009, but his stint with the team was brief. He returned to the Padres later that year, continuing to contribute as a dependable player. Hairston's journey in MLB took another turn when he signed with the New York Mets in 2011. Over two seasons with the Mets, he became a fan favorite, known for his power-hitting capabilities. In 2012, Hairston hit a career-high 20 home runs, demonstrating his ability to provide offensive strength.
In 2013, Hairston joined the Chicago Cubs, adding depth to their outfield. His tenure with the Cubs was short-lived, as he was traded to the Washington Nationals later that year. With the Nationals, Hairston served primarily as a bench player, offering veteran experience and occasional power off the bench.
Throughout his career, Hairston was known for his ability to hit left-handed pitching effectively, making him a valuable platoon player. His career statistics include a .242 batting average, 106 home runs, and 313 RBIs over 11 seasons. Hairston's journey through MLB was characterized by his adaptability and consistent performance across various teams.
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