Steve Lake, a professional baseball catcher, spent a decade in Major League Baseball (MLB) showcasing his skills behind the plate. Born on March 14, 1957, in Inglewood, California, Lake's journey to the majors began when he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round of the 1978 amateur draft. His career in the big leagues officially started when he made his debut with the Cubs in 1983.
Lake's tenure with the Cubs was marked by his role as a backup catcher, where he provided depth and reliability in the catching position. His defensive skills were a strong suit, and he was known for his ability to handle pitchers effectively. During his time with the Cubs, Lake played alongside notable players and contributed to the team's efforts with his steady presence behind the plate.
In 1986, Lake's career took a new turn when he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. It was with the Cardinals that he spent a significant portion of his career, serving as a backup to the primary catcher. His defensive prowess continued to be an asset, and he was often called upon in crucial situations to manage the pitching staff. Lake's time with the Cardinals included appearances in the postseason, where his experience and calm demeanor were valuable to the team.
After his stint with the Cardinals, Lake joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 1989. With the Phillies, he continued to fulfill his role as a reliable backup catcher. His experience and knowledge of the game were beneficial to the younger players on the team, and he provided leadership both on and off the field. Lake's tenure with the Phillies lasted until the end of his MLB career in 1993.
Throughout his career, Lake was known for his defensive capabilities, particularly his strong arm and ability to throw out base runners. While his offensive numbers were modest, his contributions to the teams he played for were primarily measured by his defensive work and his ability to manage games from behind the plate.
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