Coleman has raked .264 for his career in addition to 849 scored runs and an OPS of .441. During his time in professional baseball, he stepped up to bat 5,970 times and came through with a base base hit 1,425 times. He has compiled a slugging percentage of .117 in addition to earning 1,863 bases. For his professional baseball career, Coleman has hit 28 balls out of the park while knocking in 346 runs. He has struck out 960 times and earned a walk on 477 occasions, contributing to a .324 OBP.
Vince Coleman
Vince Coleman MLB Baseball Hitter
When discussing the history of Major League Baseball (MLB), the name Vince Coleman often comes up, particularly when the conversation revolves around speed and base stealing. Coleman was not just any player; he was a game-changer. His outstanding ability to steal bases made him a formidable opponent on the field and a legend in the annals of baseball history.
Who is Vince Coleman?
Vincent Maurice Coleman, known as Vince Coleman, was born on September 22, 1961, in Jacksonville, Florida. He is best known for his incredible speed and prowess as a base stealer during his time in MLB. Coleman played primarily as a left fielder and was one of the most electrifying players in the league during the 1980s.
Early Life and Path to the MLB
Before making his mark in Major League Baseball, Coleman attended Florida A&M University. There, he excelled in both football and baseball, showcasing his athletic versatility. However, it was baseball that would become his calling. The St. Louis Cardinals recognized his potential and drafted him in the 10th round of the 1982 MLB Draft.
Vince Coleman’s MLB Career
Vince Coleman made his MLB debut with the St. Louis Cardinals on April 18, 1985. His impact was immediate and profound. Coleman brought an aggressive base-running style that revitalized the Cardinals’ game.
Rookie of the Year
In his debut year, Vince Coleman showcased his extraordinary talent by stealing a staggering 110 bases, which earned him the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 1985. This achievement was just the beginning of a remarkable career.
Stolen Base Records
Coleman’s speed on the bases was unparalleled. He led the National League in stolen bases for six consecutive seasons, from 1985 to 1990. During this period, he accumulated over 100 stolen bases in three different seasons, a feat only achieved by a select few in baseball history.
- 1985: 110 stolen bases
- 1986: 107 stolen bases
- 1987: 109 stolen bases
These numbers not only made him one of the most feared base runners of his time but also secured his place as one of the greatest base stealers in MLB history.
Career Highlights
- All-Star Appearances: Vince Coleman was selected to the MLB All-Star Game twice in his career.
- Silver Slugger Award: Though primarily known for his speed, Coleman also demonstrated batting prowess, earning him the Silver Slugger Award.
- World Series: Coleman played in the World Series in 1985 and 1987 with the Cardinals, though the team fell short of winning the championship.
Vince Coleman’s Player Profile
Batting and Fielding
Though Vince Coleman is renowned for his base-stealing abilities, his overall contributions to the game were substantial. As a hitter, Coleman had a career batting average of .264. While not the most powerful hitter, his ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities was invaluable to his teams.
In the outfield, Coleman was known for his speed and agility, which allowed him to cover significant ground. His defensive skills complemented his offensive capabilities, making him a well-rounded player.
Teams Played For
- St. Louis Cardinals (1985-1990): This was where Coleman made his mark as a premier base stealer.
- New York Mets (1991-1993): Coleman continued to display his base-stealing talent with the Mets.
- Kansas City Royals (1994-1995): Although he played fewer games, his impact was still felt.
- Seattle Mariners (1995): A brief stint but notable for his veteran presence.
- Cincinnati Reds (1996): Part of the Reds’ lineup towards the end of his career.
- Detroit Tigers (1997): Coleman concluded his MLB journey with the Tigers.
Vince Coleman’s Legacy
Vince Coleman’s legacy in Major League Baseball is defined by his extraordinary speed and base-stealing records. His style of play was a throwback to the days when speedsters ruled the bases, and it helped to rekindle an appreciation for base stealing in an era dominated by power hitters.
Post-MLB Career
After retiring from professional baseball, Vince Coleman remained involved in the sport, contributing as a coach and mentor to younger players. His knowledge and experience have been invaluable to those looking to improve their base-running skills.
Career Stats
- Batting Average: .264
- Home Runs: 28
- Runs Batted In (RBIs): 346
- Stolen Bases: 752
These statistics underscore Coleman’s role as a catalyst for his teams, emphasizing speed and strategy over sheer power.
Conclusion
Vince Coleman’s career is a testament to the impact a player can have beyond traditional power metrics. His ability to change the dynamics of a game with his speed made him an invaluable asset to every team he played for. Coleman’s contributions to Major League Baseball continue to be celebrated, and his records serve as a benchmark for aspiring base stealers.
In the world of baseball, Vince Coleman will always be remembered as a dynamic player who brought excitement and strategy to the forefront of the game. His legacy endures, inspiring future generations to appreciate the art of base stealing and the broader strategic elements of baseball.