Birthplace: Seattle,WA,USA
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220
Position: 1B
Bats/Throws: Left/Left
ML Debut: September 3, 1989
John Olerud, a native of Seattle came back here in the year 2000 and had a great year. He won a gold glove and lead the league in fielding % (.996). He recorded the first hit in Comerica Park with a double. In game 5 of the ALCS vs New York he hit a home run off reliever Jeff Nelson, right after Edgar Martinez to post back to back home runs, making them the first duo to hit back to back homers in the postseason twice. He is one of only 17 players to have made their ML debut in the majors without going to the minors first. Last year on June 16th vs San Diego he hit for the cycle for the second time in his career. Making him the second person to hit for the cycle in both leagues.
In 2002, John Olerud posted a .300 batting average, becoming the Mariners most consistent hitter. He now has a career batting average of .300, and is a guy you can always count on to get the job done. He ended the season with over 100 RBI's, and over 20 homeruns. He remained steady behind first base, committing only 5 errors and a .996 fielding %, winning the 2002 Gold GLove. John was named the Mariners Most Valuable Player by the BBWAA.
John had a 'dissapointing' season in 2001, and looks to improve this season. Lou is hoping to give him more rest this year, as he tends to tire in the second hafl of the season. He is having a great Spring Training!
John Olerud lives in Fall City, Washington with his wife Kelly and his son Garret and his daughter Jordan. Graduated from Washington State University and pitched for the cougars.