Tom Goodwin's journey in Major League Baseball is characterized by his speed and agility on the field. Born on July 27, 1968, in Fresno, California, Goodwin attended Central High School in Fresno before playing college baseball at Fresno State University. His talent caught the attention of scouts, and he was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first round of the 1989 MLB Draft.

Goodwin made his MLB debut with the Dodgers on September 1, 1991. During his time with the Dodgers, he showcased his exceptional speed, which became a hallmark of his playing style. However, his tenure with the team was relatively short, and he was traded to the Kansas City Royals in 1994. It was with the Royals that Goodwin began to establish himself as a reliable leadoff hitter and base-stealing threat.

In 1996, Goodwin joined the Texas Rangers, where he continued to excel as a base stealer. That year, he led the American League in stolen bases with 66, highlighting his ability to change the dynamics of a game with his speed. His performance on the base paths was complemented by his defensive skills in the outfield, where he was known for covering significant ground and making challenging catches.

Goodwin's career took another turn when he was traded to the Colorado Rockies in 1997. Playing in the hitter-friendly environment of Coors Field, he maintained solid offensive numbers and continued to be a threat on the bases. His time with the Rockies was followed by a stint with the San Francisco Giants in 1999, where he played a supporting role in the outfield.

In 2000, Goodwin signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking a return to the team that had initially drafted him. During this period, he continued to contribute as a speedy outfielder and base runner. His second tenure with the Dodgers was followed by a move to the Chicago Cubs in 2003. With the Cubs, Goodwin served as a veteran presence and provided depth to the outfield.

Goodwin's final MLB season came in 2004 with the Chicago Cubs. Over the course of his career, he played in 1,288 games, recorded 1,113 hits, and stole 369 bases. His ability to steal bases and cover ground in the outfield made him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.

After retiring as a player, Goodwin transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. His post-playing career included coaching roles in various organizations, where he continued to be involved in the sport he had dedicated much of his life to.