Over the course of the 789 at-bats in his baseball career, Bruntlett has earned a batting average of .231 in addition to 182 base hits. His on-base percentage is .303 and he has earned a career OPS of .336. He has a total of 115 runs in addition to having 72 runs batted in. Bruntlett has earned a walk 76 times while being called out on strikes on 157 occasions. He has gone yard 11 times, in addition to having 260 total bases and also a .033 slugging percentage.
Eric Bruntlett
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Baseball 2010 Upper Deck #378 Eric Bruntlett NM Phillies | $0.79 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
2010 Upper Deck Baseball Card #378 Eric Bruntlett | $2.49 | Buy on Amazon |
Eric Bruntlett may not be a household name like some of the other Major League Baseball (MLB) stars, but his contributions to the game, especially during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies, are memorable. As a professional baseball player, Bruntlett has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile and reliable player both in the field and at bat. Let’s delve into the career of Eric Bruntlett, the MLB baseball hitter, and explore his journey, stats, and lasting impact on the game.
Early Life and Baseball Beginnings
Eric Kevin Bruntlett was born on March 29, 1978, in Lafayette, Indiana. Growing up, he developed a passion for baseball, which would eventually become his career. Bruntlett attended Stanford University, where he played college baseball for the Stanford Cardinal. His performance at Stanford helped him hone his skills and catch the attention of MLB scouts.
In 2000, Bruntlett’s hard work paid off when he was drafted by the Houston Astros in the ninth round of the MLB Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball career and his journey to the major leagues.
MLB Debut and Career with the Houston Astros
Eric Bruntlett made his MLB debut with the Houston Astros on June 27, 2003. During his time with the Astros, Bruntlett proved to be a valuable utility player, capable of playing multiple positions including shortstop, second base, and outfield. This versatility made him an asset to the team, as he could be relied upon to fill in wherever needed.
Notable Achievements with the Astros
While Bruntlett’s batting average wasn’t standout, his defensive skills and ability to play various positions made him a key component of the Astros’ roster. He was part of the team during their run to the 2005 World Series, where they faced off against the Chicago White Sox. Although the Astros did not win the championship, Bruntlett’s contributions during the season were noteworthy.
Transition to the Philadelphia Phillies
In November 2007, Eric Bruntlett was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies as part of a deal involving Brad Lidge. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in Bruntlett’s career. It was with the Phillies that he would achieve some of his most memorable moments in MLB.
The 2008 World Series Champion
The highlight of Eric Bruntlett’s career came in 2008 when the Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series. Bruntlett played a significant role in the team’s success, both as a fielder and a hitter. One of the most iconic moments came during Game 3 of the World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Bruntlett scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning, helping the Phillies secure a critical victory.
The Unassisted Triple Play
Another unforgettable achievement in Bruntlett’s career occurred on August 23, 2009, when he completed an unassisted triple play against the New York Mets. This rare feat is one of the most difficult plays to achieve in baseball, and Bruntlett’s quick thinking and athleticism made it possible. The triple play ended the game and secured a victory for the Phillies, further cementing Bruntlett’s place in MLB history.
Eric Bruntlett’s Stats and Legacy
Over the course of his MLB career, Eric Bruntlett’s stats reflect his role as a versatile and dependable player. While his batting average was .231, he contributed in many other ways that don’t always show up in traditional statistics. His ability to play multiple positions, execute crucial plays, and support his team in high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset.
Career Stats Overview
- Batting Average: .231
- Home Runs: 11
- Runs Batted In (RBIs): 72
- Stolen Bases: 19
Legacy and Impact
Eric Bruntlett’s legacy in MLB is defined by his versatility and memorable contributions during key moments. His ability to perform under pressure and execute rare plays like the unassisted triple play set him apart from many of his peers. While he may not have been the most talked-about player, his dedication and skill earned him respect throughout the league.
Life After Baseball
After retiring from professional baseball, Eric Bruntlett chose to step away from the limelight. He has maintained a relatively private life, focusing on personal pursuits and spending time with his family. Despite his retirement, Bruntlett’s achievements on the field continue to be celebrated by baseball fans and remembered as part of the Philadelphia Phillies’ storied history.
Conclusion
Eric Bruntlett’s career in MLB is a testament to the impact a versatile and reliable player can have on a team. His contributions to the Philadelphia Phillies’ World Series victory and his execution of one of the rarest plays in baseball history have cemented his place in the annals of the sport. While he may not have been the most high-profile player, Eric Bruntlett’s dedication and skill have left an indelible mark on the game of baseball. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, Bruntlett’s story is a reminder of the diverse talents and moments that make baseball America’s pastime.