Births on February 14

Brad Halsey, American baseball player (d. 2014)

Bradford Alexander Halsey: A Left-Handed Pitcher's MLB Journey

Bradford Alexander Halsey, born on February 14, 1981, and who sadly passed away on October 31, 2014, was a talented American professional left-handed pitcher. His career highlights include playing in Major League Baseball (MLB) across three distinct seasons for prominent franchises: the New York Yankees in 2004, the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005, and the Oakland Athletics in 2006.

Early Career and MLB Debut with the New York Yankees

Halsey's path to the big leagues commenced when the storied New York Yankees selected him in the 8th round of the 1999 MLB draft. As a promising left-handed arm, he meticulously honed his skills and progressed through the Yankees' robust minor league system. This dedication culminated in his highly anticipated Major League debut with the Yankees during the 2004 season. During his time with the Yankees, Halsey made a notable impact, appearing in eight games, including five starts, showcasing his potential on one of baseball's most iconic teams.

Pivotal Trades and Subsequent MLB Seasons with Arizona and Oakland

Following his inaugural MLB season, Bradford Halsey became a central figure in a blockbuster trade. In January 2005, he was famously included in a significant package – alongside catcher Dioner Navarro and pitcher Javier Vázquez – that the Yankees sent to the Arizona Diamondbacks. In return, the Yankees acquired the legendary five-time Cy Young Award winner, Randy Johnson. This high-profile transaction, often referred to as the "Arizona Trade," marked a pivotal moment in Halsey's burgeoning career. With the Diamondbacks in 2005, he experienced his most active MLB season, making 19 starts and pitching 107.1 innings, which proved invaluable for his development as a starting pitcher.

Halsey's tenure with the Diamondbacks was followed by another strategic move. Prior to the 2006 season, he was acquired by the Oakland Athletics in a trade that sent pitcher Juan Cruz to Arizona. During what would be his final season in Major League Baseball, Halsey continued to contribute to the Athletics, making 15 appearances, including 12 starts. Throughout his MLB career, Halsey accumulated a respectable record of 4 wins and 13 losses with an earned run average (ERA) of 5.43 over 187.1 innings pitched.

Beyond MLB: A Continuing Professional Baseball Journey

Although his Major League Baseball career concluded in 2006, Bradford Halsey's passion for the game kept him on the professional circuit for several additional years. He continued to pitch in various independent leagues, such as the Atlantic League and the Golden Baseball League, and even expanded his experience to international baseball, playing in Taiwan and Venezuela until 2011. His unwavering commitment to the sport underscored his dedication as a professional baseball player. Halsey's passing in 2014, at the age of 33, was a moment of reflection for those who followed his journey on the baseball diamond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bradford Halsey

Who was Bradford Alexander Halsey?

Bradford Alexander Halsey was an American left-handed professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for three different teams between 2004 and 2006: the New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Oakland Athletics.

When was Bradford Halsey born and when did he pass away?

Bradford Halsey was born on February 14, 1981, and sadly passed away on October 31, 2014, at the age of 33.

Which MLB teams did Halsey play for?

Halsey played for the New York Yankees in 2004, the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005, and the Oakland Athletics in 2006.

What was Halsey's role in the Randy Johnson trade?

In January 2005, Bradford Halsey was a key prospect included in the trade package from the New York Yankees to the Arizona Diamondbacks, along with Dioner Navarro and Javier Vázquez, in exchange for the legendary pitcher Randy Johnson.

Did Halsey play professional baseball after his MLB career ended?

Yes, after his final MLB season in 2006, Halsey continued to play professional baseball in various independent leagues and internationally in countries like Taiwan and Venezuela until 2011, demonstrating his commitment to the sport.