In his career, La Stella has hit 40 balls out of the park while knocking in 206 runs. In his time spent in pro baseball, he approached the plate 1,957 times and has delivered a base hit 462 times. He has earned a slugging percentage of .397 and he has racked up 690 bases. He has struck out 220 times and earned a walk on 175 at-bats, contributing to a .337 on-base percentage. La Stella has recorded a batting average of .266 in his time in baseball with 209 scored runs and an OPS of .734.
Tommy La Stella
Thomas Frank La Stella, born on January 31, 1989, in Westwood, New Jersey, had a passion for baseball from a young age. Growing up, La Stella honed his skills on the baseball diamond, dreaming of making it to the big leagues. He attended Saint Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, New Jersey, where his talent was evident. It was during these formative years that La Stella developed the foundational skills that would later define his professional career.
After high school, La Stella played college baseball at Coastal Carolina University. His performance there attracted the attention of MLB scouts, setting the stage for his professional career. At Coastal Carolina, he not only showcased his batting prowess but also demonstrated leadership qualities that caught the eye of talent scouts. His college years were instrumental in refining his technique and preparing him for the challenges of professional baseball.
The MLB Journey
Draft and Early Career
Tommy La Stella was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the eighth round of the 2011 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Braves in 2014, showcasing his skills right from the start. His rookie season was marked by consistent performances, which laid a solid foundation for his future in baseball. La Stella’s debut was a momentous occasion, not just for him but also for those who had followed his journey from college to the professional arena.
His time with the Braves was an important learning period, where he adapted to the fast-paced nature of MLB. The transition from college baseball to the major leagues is significant, yet La Stella handled it with poise and maturity. His ability to adjust and perform at this level was a testament to his dedication and hard work, garnering respect from teammates and coaches alike.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
MLB | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
|
Rawlings | Official 2025 Major League Baseball | Display Case Included | MLB | ROMLB-R |
$18.50 |
Buy on Amazon |
Stints with Various Teams
After his debut with the Braves, La Stella’s career saw him donning different jerseys as he moved across teams. In 2014, he was traded to the Chicago Cubs, where he played until 2018. His time with the Cubs was memorable, as he was part of the team that won the World Series in 2016, ending the Cubs’ 108-year championship drought. This victory was a highlight of his career, cementing his place in baseball history.
Following his tenure with the Cubs, La Stella joined the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. His time with the Angels was marked by impressive stats, particularly in the 2019 season, where he earned his first All-Star selection. La Stella’s stint with the Angels highlighted his growth as a hitter, with career-best numbers that underscored his value to the team. His performance during this period was characterized by a blend of power and precision, qualities that made him a formidable opponent at the plate.
In 2020, La Stella was traded to the Oakland Athletics, further expanding his experience in the league. His ability to adapt and thrive in different team environments speaks volumes about his versatility as a player. Each team he joined benefited from his experience and skill, with La Stella consistently proving his worth through his on-field contributions. His journey across various teams is a testament to his ability to fit into different roles and excel, regardless of the challenges.
Tommy La Stella: The Hitter
Batting Style and Strengths
Tommy La Stella is known for his disciplined approach at the plate. Unlike many power hitters, La Stella’s strength lies in his ability to make contact and get on base. His batting style is characterized by a keen eye for pitches and a patient approach, allowing him to draw walks and avoid unnecessary strikeouts. This disciplined approach is not just about skill but also reflects his strategic mindset and deep understanding of the game.
One of La Stella’s standout qualities is his consistency. Throughout his career, he has maintained a commendable batting average, making him a reliable player in the lineup. His ability to deliver in clutch situations further elevates his reputation as a skilled hitter. His approach at the plate is methodical, often outthinking pitchers to gain an advantage. This mental aspect of his game has been crucial to his success and is often cited as a key factor in his enduring career.
Career Stats
La Stella’s career statistics reflect his prowess as a hitter. As of 2023, his career batting average stands at an impressive .270, with a significant number of home runs and RBIs to his name. His on-base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG) further highlight his all-around abilities at the plate. These numbers are a testament to his skill and dedication, underscoring his status as a top-tier hitter in the league.
During his All-Star season in 2019, La Stella posted career-high numbers, including a .295 batting average, 16 home runs, and 44 RBIs, despite playing in only 80 games due to an injury. These stats underscore his impact in the lineup and his ability to contribute significantly to his team’s success. Even when faced with setbacks, La Stella’s performance remained stellar, showcasing his resilience and determination to succeed at the highest level.
Impact on Teams
Consistency and Leadership
One of the key aspects of Tommy La Stella’s career is his consistency. Whether it’s his batting average or his ability to get on base, La Stella has been a reliable presence in every team he has played for. His experience and calm demeanor make him a leader on and off the field, providing guidance to younger players and setting an example with his work ethic. This leadership extends beyond statistics, as his influence often helps elevate team morale and performance.
His role as a mentor has been particularly significant in teams with younger rosters. By sharing his insights and experiences, La Stella has played a crucial part in nurturing the next generation of talent. His leadership is not just about providing advice but also about embodying the professional standards that aspiring players should aim to emulate. His presence in the clubhouse is often described as a stabilizing force, contributing to a positive team culture.
Versatility in the Field
Aside from his batting skills, La Stella’s versatility in the field has been a tremendous asset. Primarily a second baseman, he has also played at third base and even filled in at first base when needed. This flexibility allows teams to utilize him in various roles, maximizing his contribution to the team’s success. His ability to adapt to different positions without compromising performance is a testament to his athleticism and understanding of the game.
This versatility has also made La Stella an invaluable asset during roster changes and injury-induced lineup adjustments. His willingness to embrace new roles and challenges reflects a team-first mentality that is highly valued in professional sports. Whether it’s covering for an injured teammate or taking on a new position, La Stella’s adaptability ensures that his team always has a reliable option to turn to.
The Road Ahead
As Tommy La Stella continues his MLB journey, his focus remains on contributing to his team’s success and maintaining his high standards at the plate. With his wealth of experience and proven track record, La Stella is poised to remain a valuable asset in the league. His future in baseball is likely to be as impactful as his past, with fans and analysts alike eager to see what he will achieve next.
His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring baseball players, demonstrating that hard work, adaptability, and consistent performance are key to a successful career in professional sports. La Stella’s story is a reminder that talent, when combined with determination and resilience, can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. As he continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of MLB, La Stella’s legacy is set to inspire future generations of players.
Conclusion
Tommy La Stella’s journey in the MLB is a testament to his skills as a baseball hitter and his dedication to the sport. From his early days in New Jersey to becoming an All-Star in the MLB, La Stella’s career is marked by perseverance and excellence. His player statistics speak for themselves, but it’s his leadership and consistency that truly set him apart. As he continues to make his mark in the league, Tommy La Stella remains a player to watch, both for his current contributions and for what lies ahead in his illustrious career.
His story is one of triumph over challenges, showcasing the importance of perseverance and adaptability in professional sports. As La Stella continues to evolve as a player, his career serves as a beacon of inspiration, highlighting the impact of dedication and passion in achieving success at the highest levels of competition.
