Brad Ausmus, American baseball player and manager

Bradley David Ausmus, born on April 14, 1969, is a widely respected figure in Major League Baseball, recognized for his extensive career that has spanned roles as a durable catcher, a thoughtful manager, and currently, a strategic bench coach for the Oakland Athletics. His journey in professional baseball is marked by both exceptional longevity on the field and significant leadership positions off it, reflecting a deep commitment to the sport that has endured for decades.

A Unique Path: Ivy League and MLB

Ausmus's entry into professional baseball was rather unique for a future Major Leaguer. Drafted by the New York Yankees in 1987, he made the unconventional decision to pursue higher education concurrently with his burgeoning baseball career. He chose to alternate between attending the prestigious Dartmouth College and playing minor league baseball, a testament to his intellect and discipline. This distinctive foundation set the stage for an 18-year major league playing career that saw him don the uniforms of four different teams: the San Diego Padres, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Dodgers, carving out a reputation as one of the game's most reliable and intelligent catchers.

Distinguished Playing Career and Defensive Mastery

Throughout his extensive playing career from 1993 to 2010, Ausmus distinguished himself primarily through his exceptional defensive prowess behind home plate. His consistent excellence earned him widespread acclaim, including an All-Star selection in 1999, a testament to his overall impact on the game. He was also a three-time recipient of the coveted Gold Glove Award, an honor bestowed upon the best defensive players at each position, in 2001, 2002, and 2006, firmly establishing him as one of the premier defensive catchers of his era.

Beyond the accolades, Ausmus's statistical record further underscores his defensive mastery. He led his league an impressive five times in fielding percentage as a catcher, a key metric for defensive reliability. He also twice led the league in range factor, showcasing his ability to cover ground and make plays, and in percentage caught stealing, thwarting baserunners with a strong arm and quick release. Furthermore, he topped the league once each in putouts and assists, highlighting his active involvement in defensive plays. His quiet leadership and astute game-calling were invaluable assets to every pitching staff he worked with.

By the time he concluded his playing career in 2010, Ausmus had cemented his place in MLB history with several remarkable rankings for catchers. He finished third all-time in major league history with 12,839 putouts, trailing only the legendary Iván Rodríguez and durable Jason Kendall. He ranked seventh in games caught with 1,938, a testament to his longevity and endurance. Additionally, he stood 10th in both range factor per game (7.12) and fielding percentage (.994), underscoring his consistent excellence and dependability behind the plate over nearly two decades.

Cultural Impact and Recognition

Beyond his on-field achievements, Ausmus holds a significant place within the Jewish community in baseball. He ranks first all-time among all Jewish major leaguers in career games played (1,971), a remarkable milestone. He also stands fifth in hits (1,579) and eighth in runs batted in (607), directly behind fellow prominent Jewish catcher Mike Lieberthal. His contributions were further recognized with his induction into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2004, celebrating his impact as a Jewish athlete.

In 2007, Ausmus was honored with the prestigious Darryl Kile Award, an accolade presented annually to an MLB player who best exemplifies integrity and courage, both on and off the field. This award, named after the late pitcher Darryl Kile, speaks volumes about Ausmus's character and the respect he commanded throughout his career.

Transition to Management

After retiring as a player, Ausmus remained deeply involved in baseball. He spent several years in the San Diego Padres' front office as a special assistant from 2010 to 2013, gaining valuable experience in player evaluation, development, and organizational strategy. This period served as a crucial bridge, preparing him for the next chapter of his baseball journey: managing.

Managerial Stints with Tigers and Angels

In November 2013, Bradley Ausmus was named the 38th manager in the storied history of the Detroit Tigers, taking the reins from the highly respected Jim Leyland. He managed the Tigers for four seasons (2014-2017), leading the team through both competitive periods and, eventually, a rebuilding phase. His tenure was marked by a blend of veteran leadership and the development of younger talent.

Following his time in Detroit, Ausmus accepted the managerial position for the Los Angeles Angels in October 2018, becoming the 17th manager in their franchise history. However, his tenure with the Angels was brief, lasting only one season before he was fired in September 2019. Despite the short stint, he continued to be a sought-after baseball mind.

Beyond MLB, Ausmus has also demonstrated his commitment to the global growth of baseball by managing the Israel national baseball team, including their participation in international tournaments, further highlighting his dedication to the sport at various levels.

Current Role and Enduring Legacy

Today, Bradley Ausmus continues to contribute his vast knowledge and experience to Major League Baseball as the bench coach for the Oakland Athletics. In this crucial role, he works closely with the manager, offering strategic insights, player development guidance, and maintaining a vital link between the coaching staff and the players. His multifaceted career, spanning nearly two decades as a player and significant roles as a manager and coach, solidifies his legacy as a deeply knowledgeable and respected figure within the sport, admired for his intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the game of baseball.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Bradley Ausmus's current role in Major League Baseball?
Bradley Ausmus is currently serving as the bench coach for the Oakland Athletics in Major League Baseball.
Which MLB teams did Bradley Ausmus play for during his career?
During his 18-year MLB playing career, Ausmus played for the San Diego Padres, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Dodgers.
What were Bradley Ausmus's most notable accomplishments as a player?
As a player, Ausmus was a 1999 All-Star, a three-time Gold Glove Award winner (2001, 2002, 2006), and won the 2007 Darryl Kile Award. He also holds significant all-time defensive rankings for catchers, including third in putouts and seventh in games caught.
How long did Bradley Ausmus manage the Detroit Tigers?
Bradley Ausmus managed the Detroit Tigers for four seasons, from 2014 to 2017, after being appointed in November 2013.
What is the significance of the Darryl Kile Award?
The Darryl Kile Award is given annually to an MLB player who demonstrates integrity and courage, both on and off the field, embodying the spirit of the late pitcher Darryl Kile.
Is Bradley Ausmus in any Hall of Fame?
Yes, Bradley Ausmus was inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing his achievements as a prominent Jewish athlete in baseball.
Did Bradley Ausmus play college baseball before turning professional?
Bradley Ausmus uniquely alternated between attending Dartmouth College and playing minor league baseball after being drafted, balancing his academic pursuits with his professional athletic career.