Kessinger has an average at the plate of .131 in his time in baseball with 7 scored runs and an OPS of .456. He has struck out 19 times and has been walked on 8 attempts at the plate, contributing to a .243 OBP. In his pro baseball career, Kessinger has hit 1 baseballs out of the park while knocking in 1 runs. His slugging percentage sits at .213 and he has totaled 13 bases. During his time in professional baseball, he came to the plate 70 times and also came through with a hit 8 times.
Grae Kessinger
Grae Kessinger has made a name for himself as a promising baseball hitter in Major League Baseball (MLB). His journey from college baseball to being drafted into the MLB showcases his talent, dedication, and potential for a successful career in professional baseball. In this article, we’ll dive into Kessinger’s background, his journey to the MLB, and his performance as a hitter.
Early Life and Baseball Beginnings
Grae Kessinger was born into a family with a strong baseball lineage. His grandfather, Don Kessinger, was a six-time All-Star shortstop, and his father, Kevin Kessinger, also played in the minor leagues. Growing up in Oxford, Mississippi, Grae was surrounded by baseball, which naturally led him to develop a passion for the sport.
High School Achievements
During his time at Oxford High School, Kessinger excelled on the baseball field. He was recognized for his outstanding performance as a shortstop and hitter, earning multiple accolades and drawing the attention of college scouts. His impressive high school career set the stage for his next step in baseball: college.
College Career at Ole Miss
Grae Kessinger chose to play college baseball at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), following in the footsteps of his grandfather. At Ole Miss, Kessinger continued to develop his skills and showcased his potential as a formidable baseball hitter.
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2025 Topps Series 1 Baseball - Factory Sealed - Value Box |
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Stellar Performance
During his time at Ole Miss, Kessinger consistently demonstrated his ability to hit for both power and average. He was known for his disciplined approach at the plate and his keen eye for pitches. In his junior year, Kessinger had a breakout season, earning All-SEC First Team honors and being named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, which recognizes the top amateur baseball player in the United States.
MLB Draft and Entry into Professional Baseball
Kessinger’s standout college career caught the attention of MLB scouts, and he was selected in the second round of the 2019 MLB Draft by the Houston Astros. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball journey and his dream of playing in the MLB.
Grae Kessinger’s MLB Journey
After being drafted by the Astros, Kessinger began his professional career in the minor leagues, where he continued to hone his skills and adjust to the demands of professional baseball.
Minor League Development
In the minor leagues, Kessinger worked on refining his hitting technique and improving his defensive skills. His time in the minors allowed him to gain valuable experience and prepare for the challenges of playing in the MLB. Kessinger’s dedication to improvement was evident in his consistent performance and his ability to adapt to higher levels of competition.
MLB Debut and Performance
Grae Kessinger made his MLB debut with the Houston Astros, fulfilling his lifelong dream of playing in the majors. As a hitter, Kessinger has shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his ability to make solid contact and drive the ball to all fields. His versatility as a player, combined with his strong work ethic, makes him a valuable asset to the Astros.
Grae Kessinger’s Hitting Style and Stats
Kessinger’s hitting style is characterized by his disciplined approach at the plate and his ability to adjust to different pitching styles. He is known for his quick hands and ability to generate power from his swing, making him a threat in the batter’s box.
Key Hitting Stats
- Batting Average: Kessinger’s batting average reflects his consistency and ability to make contact with the ball. While adjusting to MLB pitching, he has maintained a respectable average, showcasing his potential as a reliable hitter.
- On-base Percentage (OBP): Kessinger’s keen eye for pitches contributes to his ability to draw walks and maintain a high OBP. This skill is crucial for a hitter looking to contribute to their team’s offensive success.
- Slugging Percentage (SLG): Known for his ability to hit for power, Kessinger’s slugging percentage highlights his capability to drive the ball for extra bases, making him a valuable run producer.
Future Prospects for Grae Kessinger
Grae Kessinger’s journey in MLB is just beginning, and his potential for growth as a baseball hitter is significant. With continued development and experience, Kessinger has the opportunity to establish himself as a key player for the Houston Astros and make a lasting impact in the league.
Areas for Improvement
While Kessinger has shown great promise, there are areas where he can continue to improve to elevate his game. Enhancing his consistency at the plate and refining his defensive skills will be crucial for his long-term success in the MLB.
Conclusion
Grae Kessinger’s journey from a baseball-loving kid in Mississippi to an MLB hitter is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, Kessinger has the potential to become a standout player in the league. Baseball fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he progresses and makes his mark in the world of professional baseball.
