Births on March 21

Shawon Dunston, American baseball player

Shawon Donnell Dunston, born on March 21, 1963, is a name deeply etched into the annals of American professional baseball. Revered for his exceptional skills at shortstop, Dunston enjoyed a remarkably durable career in Major League Baseball (MLB), gracing the diamond from 1985 until his retirement in 2002, leaving an indelible mark on several storied franchises.

A Promising Start: From Top Draft Pick to Chicago Cub

Hailing from the bustling baseball landscape of the early 1980s, Shawon Dunston’s talent was undeniable, leading to his selection as the highly coveted first overall pick in the 1982 MLB draft. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon him by the venerable Chicago Cubs, setting the stage for much of his illustrious career. Following his draft, Dunston quickly ascended through the minor league system, making his much-anticipated Major League debut in 1985. He instantly became a key figure for the Cubs faithful, known for his electrifying defensive prowess and an arm that could unleash throws from seemingly impossible angles across the infield.

A Distinguished Career Spanning Eras and Teams

While perhaps most closely associated with the Windy City, Shawon Dunston was a well-traveled veteran, showcasing his considerable talents across numerous ballparks during his nearly two-decade-long career. His longest and most memorable tenure was undoubtedly with the Chicago Cubs, where he played for a remarkable eleven seasons across two stints (1985–1995 and a brief return in 1997). During his time at Wrigley Field, he became a fan favorite, celebrated for his exciting style of play and his knack for making highlight-reel plays. After his initial run with the Cubs, Dunston expanded his horizons, bringing his defensive wizardry and consistent bat to the sunny shores of the San Francisco Giants, where he enjoyed multiple tours of duty (1996, 1998, 2001–2002). His journey also included stops with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1997, a season where he split time between the Pirates and his second stint with the Cubs, demonstrating his value as a sought-after player in the league. The tenacious shortstop also lent his skills to the Cleveland Indians in 1998 and the storied St. Louis Cardinals for consecutive seasons in 1999 and 2000. Capping off his diverse career, Dunston also made an appearance for the New York Mets in 1999, further cementing his status as a respected and reliable presence throughout Major League Baseball.

Two-Time MLB All-Star Recognition

Shawon Dunston’s exceptional skills and significant impact on the game did not go unnoticed by the wider baseball community. His consistent performance and defensive brilliance earned him deserved selections as an All-Star on two separate occasions during his prime: first in 1988 and again in 1990. These prestigious nods underscored his reputation as one of the premier shortstops in Major League Baseball during his era, a testament to his high level of play and his ability to compete with the very best in the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shawon Dunston

Who is Shawon Dunston?

Shawon Donnell Dunston is a retired American professional baseball player who primarily played as a shortstop in Major League Baseball (MLB) for 18 seasons.

When did Shawon Dunston play in MLB?

Dunston’s impressive MLB career spanned from his debut in 1985 until his retirement in 2002.

What teams did Shawon Dunston play for?

He played for a variety of teams, including significant tenures with the Chicago Cubs (1985–1995, 1997) and the San Francisco Giants (1996, 1998, 2001–2002). He also played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (1997), Cleveland Indians (1998), St. Louis Cardinals (1999, 2000), and New York Mets (1999).

Was Shawon Dunston an MLB All-Star?

Yes, Shawon Dunston was a two-time MLB All-Star, receiving selections in both 1988 and 1990, recognizing his status as one of the league's top shortstops.

What was Shawon Dunston known for as a player?

Dunston was renowned for his spectacular defensive plays at shortstop, characterized by his incredibly strong arm, acrobatic fielding, and exciting style of play that made him a fan favorite throughout his career.