Nick Stavinoha, American baseball player
Nicholas Lee Stavinoha, born on May 3, 1982, is an American former professional baseball outfielder whose journey saw him reach the pinnacle of the sport: Major League Baseball.
Early Life and Professional Beginnings
Hailing from the United States, Stavinoha developed his skills as an outfielder, a crucial defensive position tasked with fielding balls hit into the expansive outfield and often contributing offensively with hitting and base running. Like many aspiring athletes, his path to the major leagues involved navigating through the rigorous minor league system, a testament to his dedication and talent in a highly competitive sport.
Major League Baseball Tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals
Stavinoha realized the dream of many young ballplayers when he made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut. He proudly wore the iconic uniform of the St. Louis Cardinals, a franchise steeped in rich baseball history and known for its passionate fanbase, for three seasons. His tenure with the Cardinals spanned from 2008 to 2010, a period where he showcased his abilities on the grandest stage of American baseball, competing against the best players in the world.
The Role of an Outfielder in MLB
As an outfielder, Stavinoha played a vital role in the Cardinals' defensive alignment, typically positioned in left field, center field, or right field. This demanding position requires a blend of speed, a strong throwing arm, and excellent hand-eye coordination to track fly balls, make crucial catches often in challenging conditions, and prevent extra-base hits. Offensively, he contributed with his bat, striving to get on base and drive in runs for the team, embodying the dual responsibilities of an MLB player.
Concluding His Playing Career
Following his time in Major League Baseball, Nicholas Stavinoha concluded his professional playing career. Like many athletes, he transitioned from the competitive fields of MLB to new endeavors, carrying with him the invaluable experience and memories gained from years in professional baseball.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Nicholas Stavinoha's full name and birthdate?
- His full name is Nicholas Lee Stavinoha, and he was born on May 3, 1982.
- What position did Nicholas Stavinoha play in baseball?
- He played as a professional baseball outfielder.
- Which MLB team did Stavinoha play for?
- Nicholas Stavinoha played exclusively for the St. Louis Cardinals during his Major League Baseball career.
- During which years did he play in Major League Baseball?
- He played in MLB from 2008 to 2010.
- What is an outfielder's primary role in baseball?
- An outfielder is a defensive player positioned in the expansive outfield area, responsible for catching fly balls, fielding ground balls, and throwing them back to the infield to prevent runs or get outs. They also contribute offensively as part of the batting lineup, aiming to hit for power or average and get on base for their team.