Terry Pendleton's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and skill. Born on July 16, 1960, in Los Angeles, California, Pendleton grew up with a love for baseball that would eventually lead him to the big leagues. He attended Fresno State University, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of professional scouts.
Pendleton was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 7th round of the 1982 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with the Cardinals on July 18, 1984. As a third baseman, Pendleton quickly established himself as a reliable player, known for his defensive prowess and ability to handle pressure situations. His time with the Cardinals was marked by consistent performance, and he played a crucial role in the team's success during the mid-1980s.
In 1987, Pendleton helped the Cardinals reach the World Series, where they faced off against the Minnesota Twins. Although the Cardinals fell short, losing in seven games, Pendleton's performance throughout the season and the playoffs was commendable. He remained with the Cardinals until 1990, providing steady defense and contributing offensively with his switch-hitting ability.
The next chapter of Pendleton's career began when he signed with the Atlanta Braves as a free agent in December 1990. This move proved to be a turning point. In 1991, Pendleton had a breakout season, leading the National League in batting average with a .319 mark and helping the Braves win the National League pennant. His outstanding performance earned him the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, a testament to his influence on the field.
Pendleton continued to be a vital part of the Braves' lineup, playing a key role in their success throughout the early 1990s. The Braves reached the World Series again in 1992, but were defeated by the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite the loss, Pendleton's leadership and performance were integral to the Braves' achievements during this period.
After his tenure with the Braves, Pendleton went on to play for the Florida Marlins, Cincinnati Reds, and Kansas City Royals. While his later years in the league did not match the peak of his time with the Braves, he remained a respected figure in the clubhouse and a mentor to younger players.
Pendleton retired from professional baseball after the 1998 season. Over his career, he accumulated a .270 batting average, 140 home runs, and 946 RBIs. His defensive skills earned him three Gold Glove Awards, and he was selected as an All-Star in 1992.
Following his playing career, Pendleton transitioned into coaching, returning to the Braves organization as a hitting coach and later as a first base coach. His experience and knowledge of the game have been invaluable in shaping the next generation of players.
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