Lum has drawn a free base 366 times while fanning on 506 plate appearances. His OBP is .319 and he has a career OPS of .371. He has scored 404 runs in addition to having earned 431 runs batted in. He has gone deep 90 times, as well as 1,315 total bases and a .051 slugging percentage. For the 3,554 official at-bats in his pro career, Lum has earned a batting average of .247 with 877 hits.
When people think about the history of Major League Baseball (MLB), names like Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, and Willie Mays might come to mind. However, there are many players who have made significant contributions to the game, even if they aren’t household names. One such player is Mike Lum. With a career that spanned over a decade, Lum’s journey through MLB is a testament to dedication and passion for baseball.
Early Life and Introduction to Baseball
Mike Lum was born on October 27, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Growing up in the Aloha State, Lum was introduced to baseball at a young age. His early years were spent honing his skills on the diamond, driven by a love for the game that would eventually lead him to the major leagues.
College Baseball and Draft
Before stepping onto the professional stage, Lum attended Roosevelt High School in Honolulu, where he showcased his talent as a standout athlete. His prowess on the field caught the attention of scouts, and he eventually played college baseball. His performance in college made it clear that Lum had the potential to succeed at a higher level.
Mike Lum’s MLB Career
Mike Lum’s MLB career began when he was signed by the Milwaukee Braves in 1963. However, his major league debut came later, on September 12, 1967, with the team by then known as the Atlanta Braves. Lum’s versatility as a player was evident as he played both outfield and first base positions during his career.
Playing for the Atlanta Braves
Lum spent the majority of his career with the Atlanta Braves, a team that became synonymous with his name. His time with the Braves was marked by several memorable moments, including being part of the team’s lineup that featured legends like Hank Aaron. Lum’s ability to perform under pressure made him a reliable player for the Braves.
A Historic Achievement
One of Mike Lum’s most notable achievements came during a game against the San Diego Padres on May 22, 1969. During this game, Lum became the first player in MLB history to hit a pinch-hit grand slam in extra innings. This historic moment not only highlighted his batting skills but also cemented his place in baseball history.
Transition to Other Teams
After his stint with the Braves, Mike Lum continued his MLB journey with other teams. In 1976, he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds, where he played until 1979. Lum’s time with the Reds was another chapter in his career where he demonstrated his consistent performance and adaptability on the field.
Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs
Playing for the Reds allowed Lum to be part of a team that had a strong lineup and competitive edge in the league. After his tenure with the Reds, Lum joined the Chicago Cubs in 1981. Although his time with the Cubs was brief, it added another layer to his diverse MLB career.
Mike Lum’s Impact and Legacy
Mike Lum’s career in MLB was more than just statistics and achievements. He was a trailblazer in many ways, particularly as one of the few players of Asian descent in the league during his time. His presence and success in MLB paved the way for future generations of Asian and Pacific Islander players.
Beyond Playing: Coaching and Mentoring
After retiring from professional baseball, Lum continued to contribute to the sport through coaching and mentoring. His experience and knowledge of the game made him an invaluable resource for aspiring players. Lum’s dedication to baseball extended beyond his playing days, highlighting his lifelong commitment to the sport.
Conclusion: A Remarkable Journey
Mike Lum’s journey through MLB is a story of resilience, talent, and passion. While he may not be as widely recognized as some of the legends of the game, his contributions to baseball are significant. Lum’s career serves as an inspiration to those who dream of making it in the major leagues, proving that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible.
In remembering Mike Lum, we celebrate not just his achievements on the field but also his impact on the game of baseball and the doors he opened for future players. His legacy is one of perseverance and excellence, reminding us of the diverse tapestry that makes up the history of Major League Baseball.