U. L. Washington, known for his unique habit of playing with a toothpick in his mouth, was a professional baseball player who spent a decade in Major League Baseball. Born on October 27, 1953, in Stringtown, Oklahoma, Washington grew up in a small town environment that shaped his early life and career. He attended high school in Hobbs, New Mexico, where his athletic talents began to shine, particularly on the baseball field.

Washington was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 1972 amateur draft. He spent several years honing his skills in the minor leagues before making his major league debut with the Royals in 1977. As a shortstop, Washington was known for his defensive skills and his ability to contribute offensively when needed. His versatility in the infield allowed him to play both shortstop and second base, providing his team with valuable flexibility.

During his time with the Royals, Washington was part of a team that consistently competed for the American League West title. He played alongside some of the era's greats, contributing to the Royals' success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Washington's tenure with the Royals included appearances in the postseason, where he gained experience on the national stage.

In 1984, Washington was traded to the Montreal Expos, where he continued to play as a reliable infielder. His time with the Expos was marked by steady performance, though the team did not achieve the same level of success as the Royals during his tenure. Washington's role with the Expos was primarily as a utility infielder, providing depth and experience to the roster.

Washington's career continued with a stint at the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he played until 1986. His experience and leadership were assets to the teams he played for, even as his playing time began to decrease. Washington's final season in the majors was with the Pirates, after which he retired from professional baseball.

Throughout his career, Washington was known for his distinctive style and steady presence on the field. His habit of playing with a toothpick became a trademark, making him a memorable figure for fans and teammates alike. Washington's career statistics include a batting average of .251, with 27 home runs and 255 runs batted in over 969 games.

After retiring from playing, Washington remained involved in baseball, taking on roles such as coaching and mentoring young players. His experience and knowledge of the game allowed him to contribute to the development of future generations of players.

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