Steve Yeager, a catcher known for his defensive prowess and leadership on the field, spent the majority of his Major League Baseball career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Born on November 24, 1948, in Huntington, West Virginia, Yeager was drafted by the Dodgers in the fourth round of the 1967 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut on August 2, 1972, and quickly became an integral part of the Dodgers' roster.
Yeager's reputation as a defensive specialist was well-earned. He was particularly noted for his strong arm and ability to handle the pitching staff, which included some of the era's most talented pitchers. His skills behind the plate were a significant asset to the Dodgers, helping them maintain a competitive edge throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Yeager's ability to manage games and his pitchers was a critical component of the Dodgers' success during this period.
One of Yeager's most memorable moments came during the 1981 World Series. In a series that saw the Dodgers face off against the New York Yankees, Yeager shared the World Series Most Valuable Player Award with teammates Ron Cey and Pedro Guerrero. His performance in the series was instrumental in the Dodgers securing the championship, marking a high point in his career.
Throughout his time with the Dodgers, Yeager was known for his toughness and resilience. He played through numerous injuries, including a frightening incident in 1976 when he was struck in the throat by a piece of a broken bat. This injury led to the development of a throat protector for catchers, which became a standard piece of equipment in the league.
Yeager's offensive numbers were modest compared to his defensive contributions. Over his career, he posted a batting average of .228, with 102 home runs and 410 RBIs. While not known for his hitting, Yeager occasionally provided key hits and demonstrated a knack for performing in clutch situations.
After leaving the Dodgers in 1985, Yeager had brief stints with the Seattle Mariners and the Oakland Athletics before retiring from playing in 1986. His post-playing career included coaching and mentoring roles, where he continued to share his knowledge and experience with younger players.
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