Graig Nettles was a professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues for 22 seasons. He was known for his exceptional defensive skills, particularly at third base, and his ability to hit for power. Nettles played for several teams throughout his career, including the Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, and Montreal Expos.
Nettles began his career with the Cleveland Indians in 1967, but it wasn't until he was traded to the New York Yankees in 1973 that he really began to make a name for himself. He quickly became a fan favorite in New York, thanks in large part to his outstanding defense. Nettles won two Gold Glove Awards during his time with the Yankees, and he was a key part of the team's success in the late 1970s.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Nettles was also a solid hitter. He hit over 20 home runs in a season six times during his career, and he finished with a career batting average of .248. Nettles was particularly effective in the postseason, where he hit .267 with 14 home runs and 37 RBI in 65 games.
Nettles played for several other teams after leaving the Yankees, but he never quite recaptured the success he had in New York. He retired after the 1988 season with 390 career home runs and 1,314 RBI. He was also one of the best defensive third basemen of his era, and he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998.
Overall, Graig Nettles was a talented and versatile player who made a significant impact on the game of baseball. He was a key part of several successful teams throughout his career, and his defensive skills were unmatched. While he may not be as well-known as some of his contemporaries, Nettles was a true legend of the game, and his contributions to baseball will not be forgotten.
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