Steve Buechele, a third baseman known for his steady glove and reliable presence on the field, played in Major League Baseball primarily during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born on September 26, 1961, in Lancaster, California, Buechele attended Stanford University, where he honed his skills before being drafted by the Texas Rangers in the fifth round of the 1982 MLB Draft.
Buechele made his major league debut with the Rangers on July 19, 1985. His rookie season set the tone for his career, as he quickly established himself as a dependable defensive player. Over the years, Buechele became known for his solid fielding abilities, often ranking among the league leaders in fielding percentage for third basemen. His defensive prowess was complemented by a respectable offensive game, characterized by occasional power and timely hitting.
Throughout his tenure with the Rangers, Buechele was a fixture at third base. He played with the team until 1991, during which time he became a fan favorite for his work ethic and consistency. In 1989, he had one of his best offensive seasons, hitting 20 home runs and driving in 66 runs, which were career highs at the time. His performance helped the Rangers remain competitive in the American League West.
In August 1991, Buechele was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he joined a team in the midst of a playoff race. His arrival bolstered the Pirates' infield, and he contributed to their successful run to the National League Championship Series that year. Buechele remained with the Pirates through the 1992 season, providing veteran leadership and stability to the team.
Following his stint in Pittsburgh, Buechele signed with the Chicago Cubs as a free agent in 1993. He continued to be a reliable presence at third base, playing two seasons with the Cubs. During his time in Chicago, Buechele maintained his reputation as a solid defensive player while contributing offensively when needed.
In 1995, Buechele returned to the Texas Rangers, bringing his career full circle. He played his final season with the team that had given him his start in the major leagues. After retiring as a player, Buechele transitioned into coaching and broadcasting, remaining involved in the sport he had dedicated much of his life to.
Steve Buechele's career in Major League Baseball spanned over a decade, during which he played for three different teams.
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