A.J. Pollock is an American baseball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Major League Baseball (MLB). He was born on December 5, 1987, in Hebron, Connecticut. He grew up in a family of athletes, with his father being a former football player and his mother a former top-level golfer. Despite having a strong passion for football and basketball, Pollock chose baseball and made it his career.
Playing Career
Pollock played college baseball for the University of Notre Dame from 2007 to 2009. In his 2009 season, he was named the Big East Player of the Year, batting .365 with 9 home runs, 52 RBI, and 34 steals in 47 games. He was then drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first round of the 2009 MLB draft.
Pollock made his Major League debut with the Diamondbacks in 2012, where he quickly became a fan favorite due to his impressive skills on the field. He was a two-time Gold Glove Award winner for his outstanding performance as a center fielder. He was also selected to the All-Star Team once in 2015 and won the Silver Slugger Award in 2018.
In 2019, Pollock signed a four-year contract worth $55 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite his injury-prone nature, he managed to make an impact on the Dodgers’ lineup, especially in the playoffs. His memorable performance during the 2020 National League Championship Series against the Atlanta Braves helped the Dodgers secure their spot in the World Series for the first time since 2018.
Playing Style
Pollock is known for his dynamic style of play on the field. He has impressive footwork and speed, which allows him to cover a lot of ground in center field. He also has an accurate arm that helps him throw runners out. Moreover, his aggressive baserunning style has helped him earn several stolen bases in his career.
At the plate, Pollock is known for his compact swing and quick hands. He has a great eye for the ball and is always willing to take advantage of any mistake made by the pitcher. He can hit for power as well as contact, making him a valuable asset to any team.
Off the field, Pollock is known for his humility and team-first mentality. He is always willing to help his teammates and puts the interests of the team before his own. He is a respected figure in the clubhouse and serves as a mentor to several young players.
Personal Life
Pollock is married to Kate Newall, whom he met while playing in the minor leagues. The couple has two children, a son named Maddox and a daughter named Maddie. In his free time, Pollock enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family.
Conclusion
A.J. Pollock is an unstoppable force in the world of baseball. His impressive skills both on and off the field have earned him the respect of his peers and the love of his fans. He continues to inspire young players with his commitment, hard work, and dedication to the game. As he continues to make his mark in the baseball world, one thing is for sure – A.J. Pollock is a name to remember.