Just Hit It, Frank Thomas: The Life and Career of a Baseball Legend

Just Hit It

by Frank Thomas

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	367 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	122 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Frank Thomas, affectionately known as 'The Big Hurt,' is an American former professional baseball player who played 19 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, and Toronto Blue Jays.

Standing at 6'5" and weighing 240 pounds, Thomas was an imposing figure at the plate. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest designated hitters (DH) in MLB history, with a career batting average of .301, 521 home runs, 1,704 runs batted in (RBIs),and an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .955.

Early Life and Career

Frank Thomas was born on May 27, 1968, in Columbus, Georgia. He attended Columbus High School, where he was a standout football and basketball player. However, it was on the baseball field where he truly excelled.

Thomas was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the fifth round of the 1989 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut in 1990 and quickly established himself as a force at the plate. In his rookie season, he hit .333 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs, earning him a spot on the American League (AL) All-Star team.

The Big Hurt

Thomas's power and consistency at the plate earned him the nickname 'The Big Hurt' from White Sox fans. He led the AL in home runs in 1994 (38),1996 (40),and 1997 (43). In 1994, he also won the AL batting title with a .353 average.

Thomas was a key member of the White Sox team that won the AL Central Division title in 1993 and 1994. He was named AL MVP in 1993 and 1994, becoming the first player in MLB history to win the award as a DH.

Later Career

After spending 12 seasons with the White Sox, Thomas signed with the Oakland Athletics as a free agent in 2006. He spent two seasons with the A's before joining the Toronto Blue Jays in 2008. Thomas retired from MLB after the 2008 season.

In 2014, Thomas was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. He received 83.7% of the vote, making him the first DH to be elected to the Hall of Fame.

Legacy and Impact

Frank Thomas is considered one of the greatest hitters in MLB history. His combination of power, consistency, and longevity makes him one of the most feared batters of his era.

Thomas's impact on the game of baseball goes beyond his individual accomplishments. He helped to change the perception of the DH position, proving that a player could be a valuable contributor to a team without playing in the field.

Thomas's legacy as a baseball legend is secure. He is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, a five-time AL All-Star, and one of the most beloved players in Chicago White Sox history.

Frank Thomas's career is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. He is one of the greatest designated hitters in MLB history, and his accomplishments on and off the field have left an enduring mark on the game of baseball.

Whether you remember him as 'The Big Hurt' crushing home runs at Wrigley Field or as a respected elder statesman of the game, Frank Thomas is a true baseball icon whose legend will continue to inspire generations of fans.

Just Hit It

by Frank Thomas

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	367 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	122 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE