Will Middlebrooks
Boston Red Sox
In just 75 games played with the Red Sox in his 2012 rookie season (due to a hand injury), he made a name for himself hitting 15 homeruns, 54 RBIs, and playing solid defense at third base. Middlebrooks, a fan favorite, was a part of the 2013 World Series Champion Red Sox team.
Born on September 9, 1989, Middlebrooks grew up in Texarkana, Texas and attended Liberty-Eylau High School. Here he began his topnotch athletic career playing football, basketball and baseball. After high school, Middlebrooks committed to play baseball and football at Texas A&M University but opted out when the Red Sox drafted him in 2007.
Middlebrooks, willing to make adjustments, was converted into a third baseman in the minor leagues. Constantly improving and being promoted through the minors, he earned a spot in the 2011 All-Star Futures Game and in November, he was added to the Red Sox 40-man roster. Heading into the 2012 season, Middlebrooks was looked at by many as being the Red Sox’ best prospect.
The power hitter was officially promoted to the major leagues and made his debut on May 2, 2012. Just four days later, he hit his first major league homerun, which was a game-tying grand slam in a 17 inning loss to the Orioles. Not only is he a great offensive player, but he came in and filled the starting spot at third base with ease. Middlebrooks officially retired in 2019 after spending time in the San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers, and Philadelphia Phillies organizations. After baseball, he has featured as a part of the CBS Sports HQ panel on the MLB and currently works as a Red Sox Analyst for NESN.
