In his career, Aybar has hit 58 balls out of the park while driving in 473 runs. For his time in the league, he came to the plate 5,628 times and has delivered with a hit 1,402 times. He has earned a slugging percentage of .071 and he has accumulated 1,924 bases. He has gone down on strikes 670 times and has been walked on 285 attempts at the plate, which contributes in part to a .313 OBP. Aybar has an average at the plate of .271 for his baseball career in addition to 643 runs scored and an OPS of .384.
Erick Aybar
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2016 Update #US11 Erick Aybar Braves Baseball | Buy on Amazon | |
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2015 Topps #295 Erick Aybar NM-MT Angels | $0.79 | Buy on Amazon |
Erick Aybar, a name that resonates with baseball enthusiasts, has carved a niche for himself in Major League Baseball (MLB). As a versatile infielder, Aybar’s impact on the field is noteworthy, and his skills as a hitter have made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for. In this article, we’ll dive into the career of Erick Aybar, analyze his performance as a hitter, and explore what makes him stand out in the MLB.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on January 14, 1984, in Baní, Dominican Republic, Erick Aybar grew up in an environment where baseball was more than just a sport—it was a way of life. From a young age, Aybar showcased an innate talent for the game, which eventually paved the way for his professional career.
Entry into the MLB
Aybar’s journey to the MLB began when he signed with the Los Angeles Angels in 2002 as an amateur free agent. After honing his skills in the minor leagues, he made his MLB debut on May 16, 2006, with the Angels. His arrival marked the beginning of a promising career that would span over a decade.
Erick Aybar’s MLB Stats
To understand Aybar’s impact as a baseball hitter, it’s essential to delve into his MLB stats. Over the course of his career, Aybar demonstrated consistent performance at the plate, contributing significantly to his teams’ successes.
Batting Average and On-Base Percentage
Aybar’s batting average, a critical indicator of a player’s effectiveness as a hitter, stands at .271. This statistic highlights his ability to make contact with the ball and reach base consistently. Additionally, his on-base percentage (OBP) of .312 reflects his proficiency in drawing walks and avoiding outs, further underscoring his value as a hitter.
Home Runs and RBIs
While Aybar may not be known for his power hitting, he has contributed to his teams’ offensive efforts with crucial home runs and RBIs (runs batted in). Throughout his career, Aybar has hit 33 home runs and amassed 473 RBIs. These numbers, though modest in comparison to power hitters, reflect his ability to drive in runs and support his team in critical situations.
Analyzing Erick Aybar’s Hitting Style
Aybar’s success as a hitter can be attributed to his unique hitting style and approach at the plate. Let’s take a closer look at the elements that define his batting prowess.
Contact Hitting and Plate Discipline
Erick Aybar is primarily known for his contact hitting ability. Unlike power hitters who rely on long balls, Aybar’s focus is on making solid contact with the ball and getting on base. His quick hands and keen eye enable him to connect with pitches across the strike zone, making him a tough out for opposing pitchers.
In addition to his contact hitting, Aybar exhibits excellent plate discipline. He possesses the patience to wait for his pitch, which allows him to avoid chasing balls outside the zone. This approach not only increases his chances of getting on base but also contributes to his respectable on-base percentage.
Baserunning and Speed
A crucial aspect of Aybar’s game is his speed on the basepaths. His agility and swiftness allow him to take extra bases and put pressure on the defense. Aybar’s speed is also an asset in stealing bases, further enhancing his contribution to his team’s offensive strategy.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Erick Aybar’s career is peppered with memorable moments and achievements that highlight his skills and impact on the game.
Gold Glove Award
One of Aybar’s most significant achievements is winning the Gold Glove Award in 2011. This accolade is a testament to his exceptional defensive abilities and his prowess as a shortstop. The award recognizes his fielding excellence and solidifies his reputation as a well-rounded player.
Postseason Appearances
Aybar has also made notable contributions during postseason play. His experience in high-pressure situations has proven invaluable to his teams, and his performances in the playoffs have further cemented his status as a reliable player.
Erick Aybar’s Legacy in MLB
As Erick Aybar’s career in MLB draws to a close, his legacy as a baseball hitter and infielder remains intact. His consistency, work ethic, and dedication to the game have left a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike.
Influence on Future Players
Aybar’s journey from the Dominican Republic to MLB success serves as an inspiration to aspiring baseball players worldwide. His story underscores the importance of perseverance, discipline, and continuous improvement—qualities that are essential for success both on and off the field.
Contribution to the Teams
Throughout his career, Aybar has been a valuable contributor to every team he has played for. His ability to adapt to different roles and provide leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in his teams’ successes. As a seasoned veteran, Aybar’s presence in the clubhouse is a source of guidance and motivation for younger players.
Conclusion
Erick Aybar’s career as an MLB baseball hitter is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the game. His achievements and contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players. As fans, we celebrate Aybar’s journey and look forward to his continued involvement in the baseball community.
In summary, Erick Aybar’s story is one of triumph and dedication. His impact as a hitter and infielder in MLB is significant, and his journey serves as a reminder of the hard work and perseverance required to succeed at the highest level of professional baseball.
