Barney has hit .246 for his baseball career in addition to 297 runs scored and an OPS of .354. He has fanned 349 times and has taken a walk on 155 attempts at the plate, contributing to a .294 on-base percentage. In his pro baseball career, Barney has hit 31 balls over the fence while driving in 201 runs. His slugging percentage is .060 in addition to racking up 865 bases. Over the course of his time in the league, he stepped into the batters box 2,759 times and got on base with a hit 625 times.
When talking about dedicated and hardworking players in Major League Baseball, Darwin Barney is a name that stands out. Known for his exceptional fielding skills and consistent performance, Barney has made a mark in the world of baseball. This article delves into the career and achievements of Darwin Barney, exploring his journey from a college athlete to a reputable MLB player.
Early Life and College Career
Darwin James Kunane Barney was born on November 8, 1985, in Portland, Oregon. From a young age, Barney was passionate about baseball, a sport he would eventually pursue professionally. He attended Southridge High School in Beaverton, Oregon, where he excelled not only in baseball but also in football and basketball. His versatility and athletic prowess were evident early on.
Barney went on to play college baseball at Oregon State University. During his time with the Oregon State Beavers, he played a key role in leading his team to two consecutive College World Series titles in 2006 and 2007. His performance in college established him as a player to watch, earning him accolades and recognition in collegiate baseball circles.
Entry into MLB
In 2007, Darwin Barney was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the fourth round of the MLB Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball career. After honing his skills in the minor leagues, Barney made his MLB debut with the Cubs on August 12, 2010. His entry into the major leagues was met with enthusiasm, and he quickly became known for his defensive capabilities.
Key Achievements and Stats
Barney’s MLB career is highlighted by his impressive defensive stats and reliability on the field. Known primarily for his role as a second baseman, Barney has also played shortstop, showcasing his versatility.
Gold Glove Award: In 2012, Barney’s exceptional fielding earned him the prestigious Gold Glove Award. This accolade is given to players with superior individual fielding performances, and Barney’s win underscored his reputation as one of the best defensive infielders in the league.
Fielding Record: During the 2012 season, Barney tied the National League record for consecutive errorless games by a second baseman, which stood at 141 games. This achievement highlighted his reliability and skill in fielding, making him a standout player in defensive stats.
Career Batting Average: Over the course of his career, Barney maintained a batting average that reflected his steady performance at the plate. Although his primary strength was defense, his contributions as a batter were invaluable to his teams.
Teams and Career Highlights
Throughout his MLB tenure, Darwin Barney played for several teams, each time leaving a mark with his defensive expertise and professionalism.
Chicago Cubs
Barney spent the bulk of his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs, the team that drafted him. His time with the Cubs is perhaps the most notable period of his career, given his achievements, including the Gold Glove Award and fielding records. Barney was a fan favorite, known for his dedication and work ethic.
Los Angeles Dodgers
In 2014, Barney was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although his time with the Dodgers was brief, he continued to display his defensive prowess, contributing to the team whenever called upon.
Toronto Blue Jays
Darwin Barney joined the Toronto Blue Jays in 2015. With the Blue Jays, Barney brought experience and stability to the infield. His presence in the clubhouse and on the field was a positive influence, helping guide younger players and contributing to the teamยs overall success.
Post-Playing Career and Legacy
After retiring from professional play, Darwin Barney transitioned into coaching and player development. He has been involved in various roles, including coaching at the collegiate level, where he shares his wealth of knowledge and experience with aspiring young players.
Barney’s legacy in baseball is one of dedication, hard work, and excellence in defense. He is remembered not just for his stats, but for his leadership qualities and the positive influence he had on teammates and fans alike.
Conclusion
Darwin Barney’s journey from a high school athlete to an accomplished MLB player is a testament to his talent and determination. His career stats, notably in fielding, highlight his contributions to the game, while his off-field endeavors in coaching continue to impact the sport positively. Barney’s story serves as an inspiration to many young athletes aiming to make their mark in the world of baseball.
Whether remembered for his Gold Glove-winning season or his role as a mentor and coach, Darwin Barney remains a respected figure in the baseball community. His career is a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance and passion for the game.