Steve Braun's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 10th round of the 1966 amateur draft. His debut came in 1971, marking the start of a career that spanned over a decade and a half. Braun was primarily known for his role as an outfielder and third baseman, but he also spent considerable time as a designated hitter, especially later in his career.
During his tenure with the Twins, Braun quickly established himself as a reliable player. In his rookie season, he posted a .254 batting average, which he improved upon in subsequent seasons. By 1973, he had achieved a .283 average, demonstrating his growth as a hitter. Braun's ability to get on base was one of his strengths, and he consistently maintained a solid on-base percentage throughout his career.
In 1975, Braun was traded to the Seattle Mariners, where he continued to be a steady presence in the lineup. His time with the Mariners was marked by consistent performance, and he was often utilized in various positions, showcasing his adaptability on the field. Braun's batting average remained in the .270s during his stint with Seattle, and he was known for his disciplined approach at the plate.
The late 1970s saw Braun moving to the Kansas City Royals, where he played a supporting role on a team that was rich in talent. Although his playing time was somewhat reduced, he continued to contribute whenever called upon. His experience and steady performance were valuable assets to the Royals during his time there.
In 1981, Braun joined the Toronto Blue Jays, adding veteran experience to a young team. His role with the Blue Jays was primarily as a designated hitter, and he provided leadership and guidance to the emerging players on the roster. Braun's ability to adapt to different roles and teams was a testament to his understanding of the game and his professionalism.
The final chapter of Braun's playing career was with the St. Louis Cardinals. Joining the team in 1982, he was part of the Cardinals' roster that won the World Series that year. Although his role was limited, being part of a championship team was a fitting conclusion to his long career in the majors.
Throughout his career, Braun was known for his consistency and professionalism. He finished with a career batting average of .271, along with 52 home runs and 376 RBIs. His ability to play multiple positions and his steady presence at the plate made him a valuable player for every team he was part of.
After retiring as a player, Braun transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with a new generation of players. His post-playing career included coaching roles with several major league teams, where he continued to be involved in the sport he had dedicated so many years to.
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