Murton has recorded a batting average of .286 for his time in baseball in addition to 134 runs scored and an OPS of .391. During his time in professional baseball, he stepped up to the plate 1,058 times and has delivered with a hit 272 times. He is sitting with a career slugging percentage of .039 and he has totaled 415 bases. For his MLB career, Murton has hit 29 balls out of the park while driving in 112 runs. He has gone down on strikes 149 times and has gotten a free base on 93 occasions, contributing to a .352 on-base %.
Matt Murton
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Baseball 2007 Topps Heritage #66 Matt Murton Cubs | $1.49 | Buy on Amazon |
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2007 Topps # 175 Matt Murton Chicago Cubs (Baseball Card) NM/MT Cubs | $1.20 | Buy on Amazon |
Matt Murton MLB Baseball Hitter
Matt Murton, a name that may not immediately ring a bell for casual baseball fans, holds a unique place in the annals of Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Known for his impressive batting prowess, Murton’s career provides a fascinating study of a baseball hitter who made significant impacts both in the United States and overseas. In this article, we’ll dive into Matt Murton’s MLB career, his hitting statistics, and his legacy in the world of baseball.
Early Career and MLB Debut
Matt Murton was born on October 3, 1981, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His passion for baseball was evident from a young age, and he honed his skills through high school and college. Murton played college baseball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, where he showcased his talent and caught the eye of MLB scouts.
In 2003, Murton was selected by the Boston Red Sox in the first round of the MLB Draft. However, he did not make his MLB debut with the Red Sox. Instead, Murton’s journey to the majors took a detour when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs in 2004 as part of a four-team trade. He made his MLB debut with the Cubs on July 8, 2005.
Matt Murton’s MLB Hitting Statistics
During his MLB career, Matt Murton was known for his consistent hitting ability. His MLB batting stats reflect a player who could deliver at the plate. Let’s take a closer look at his MLB hitting statistics:
Chicago Cubs (2005-2008)
Murton’s time with the Cubs was marked by some impressive performances. In his rookie season in 2005, he batted .321 over 51 games, showcasing his potential as a strong hitter. The following year, he continued to impress with a .297 batting average, 13 home runs, and 62 RBIs in 144 games.
Oakland Athletics and Colorado Rockies
After his stint with the Cubs, Murton briefly played for the Oakland Athletics in 2008 and the Colorado Rockies in 2009. While his time with these teams was short, Murton continued to demonstrate his hitting skills, maintaining a career MLB batting average of .286.
Overall MLB Stats
Throughout his MLB career, Matt Murton played in 346 games, achieving a .286 batting average, with 29 home runs and 112 RBIs. While these numbers may not place him among the all-time greats, they highlight Murton’s ability to contribute effectively as a hitter during his time in the majors.
Murton’s Impact in Japan
While Murton’s MLB career was solid, it was his time in Japan that truly set him apart. In 2010, Murton signed with the Hanshin Tigers of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) in Japan. This move proved to be a turning point in his career.
Record-Breaking Season
Murton quickly became a fan favorite in Japan, thanks to his exceptional performance on the field. In his first season with the Hanshin Tigers, he broke the NPB single-season hit record, previously held by Ichiro Suzuki, with 214 hits. This feat earned him the title of Central League Batting Champion.
Continued Success
Murton’s success in Japan wasn’t limited to just one season. He continued to be a dominant force at the plate, consistently ranking among the top hitters in the league. Over his six seasons with the Tigers, Murton accumulated a .310 batting average, 1,020 hits, and 77 home runs.
Legacy and Influence
Matt Murton’s baseball journey is a testament to the global nature of the sport. His ability to adapt and excel in different baseball environments speaks volumes about his talent and determination. While his MLB career was noteworthy, it was his time in Japan that cemented his legacy as an exceptional hitter.
Influence on Future Players
Murton’s success overseas has inspired other players to consider international opportunities. His story serves as a reminder that a player’s impact is not limited to the MLB but can extend to leagues around the world. Aspiring baseball hitters can learn valuable lessons from Murton’s adaptability and perseverance.
Contributions Beyond the Field
Beyond his statistical achievements, Murton’s professionalism and sportsmanship have left a lasting impression on teammates and fans alike. His positive attitude and dedication to the game have made him a respected figure in the baseball community.
Conclusion
Matt Murton may not have been a household name during his MLB career, but his contributions to the sport of baseball are undeniable. From his solid MLB hitting stats to his record-breaking achievements in Japan, Murton’s journey is one of talent, resilience, and success. His story serves as an inspiration to baseball players and fans worldwide, proving that greatness can be achieved both at home and abroad. Whether you’re a small business owner or a marketing manager, the lessons from Murton’s career can apply to your own challenges and goals, underscoring the value of adaptability, perseverance, and a global perspective.