Tim Laker's journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Born on November 27, 1969, in Encino, California, Laker attended South Hills High School in West Covina, California, before moving on to Oxnard College. His professional career began when he was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the sixth round of the 1988 MLB Draft.
Laker made his major league debut with the Expos on June 10, 1992. As a catcher, he was tasked with the challenging role of managing pitchers and providing defensive stability behind the plate. During his time with the Expos, Laker played intermittently, often serving as a backup catcher. His tenure with the team lasted until 1995, after which he was traded to the Baltimore Orioles.
His stint with the Orioles was brief, and Laker found himself moving between teams frequently. In 1997, he joined the Tampa Bay Devil Rays organization but did not appear in any major league games for them. Instead, he spent time honing his skills in the minor leagues, a common theme throughout his career.
Laker's major league journey continued with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he played from 1998 to 1999. His role remained consistent as a backup catcher, providing depth to the team's roster. In 2000, he signed with the Cleveland Indians, marking the beginning of a more stable period in his career. With the Indians, Laker saw more playing time and contributed both offensively and defensively. He remained with Cleveland until 2004, becoming a reliable presence in their lineup.
In 2005, Laker joined the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, marking his return to the organization. However, his time with the team was short-lived, and he soon moved on to the Pittsburgh Pirates once again. His second stint with the Pirates was brief, and he retired from professional baseball in 2006.
Throughout his career, Laker was known for his defensive skills and ability to work well with pitchers. While he may not have been a household name, his role as a backup catcher was crucial for the teams he played with, providing them with the necessary depth and experience. After retiring as a player, Laker transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
⚾