Martin Prado is a former professional baseball player who played in the Major League Baseball (MLB) for over a decade. He was born on October 27, 1983, in Maracay, Venezuela, and began his baseball career in his home country before being signed by the Atlanta Braves in 2001.
Prado made his MLB debut with the Braves in 2006 and quickly established himself as a versatile player who could play multiple positions. He played primarily as a second baseman and third baseman but also played in the outfield and at first base during his career.
Prado's best season came in 2010 when he hit .307 with 15 home runs and 66 RBIs for the Braves. He was named to the National League All-Star team that year and finished 17th in the MVP voting.
In 2012, Prado was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he played for two seasons before being traded again to the New York Yankees in 2014. He played just 37 games for the Yankees before being traded once again, this time to the Miami Marlins.
Prado spent the majority of his career with the Marlins, playing for them from 2015 to 2019. He was a team leader and fan favorite during his time in Miami, known for his work ethic and professionalism. He was also a mentor to many of the team's younger players.
Prado's final season in the MLB was in 2019, during which he played in just 104 games due to injuries. He announced his retirement from baseball in February 2020, ending a 14-year career in the league.
Throughout his career, Prado was known for his consistency and versatility. He finished his career with a .287 batting average, 100 home runs, and 609 RBIs. He was also a two-time Gold Glove winner, earning the award in 2010 and 2012 for his defensive prowess at third base.
Off the field, Prado was known for his charitable work and community involvement. He was a two-time nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, which recognizes players who demonstrate a commitment to giving back to their communities.
In conclusion, Martin Prado was a versatile and consistent player who spent over a decade in the MLB. He was a team leader and fan favorite during his time with the Miami Marlins and was known for his work ethic and professionalism both on and off the field. He retired in 2020 with a legacy as one of the game's most respected players.
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