MLB Player Profile: Matt Tolbert
Minnesota Twins’ short-stop, Matt Tolbert displayed a radiant performance in preceding games as he hit number of home-runs and RBIs during second half of regular season. He also rated himself in top short-stops throughout his MLB career. Born on May 4, 1982,
Tolbert is designated as a short-stop fielder in Twins’ roster and stands 6ft with a weight of 185 lbs.
The 29-year-old Tolbert has only three years of experience in his professional career. He was a natural sportsperson and had great talent in baseball. He joined University of Mississippi to start his baseball career and spent four years with them. Due to
his amazing efforts in college baseball, he was geared up to make his place in the 16th round of MLB Draft during 2004.
Tolbert did not sign any agreement after the MLB draft and become a free agent until the next four years. After playing his debut game in the 16th round, Tolbert earned fame due to his excellent performance against the rivals and was also named
in the top Baseball America’s lead-off hitters.
Twins’ officials kept an eye on Tolbert’s performance and added him in their 40-man MLB roster. He made his debut on similar day and performed particularly well throughout the Minor League season. In the following years, Tolbert was selected by different
leagues where he proved his spot by having a satisfying performance in respective games.
Tolbert executed extremely well in these leagues and became a renowned player in Minor Leagues. He served all three years of his career with the Twins. Tolbert was an ace for Twins roster due to his promising average. He also gave some incredible victories
to the Twins.
He also joined some double A’s to improve his batting tactics. Tolbert was little bit shaky with the bat at the end of 2007 as he suffered some minor injuries. After having a recovery from surgical treatment, he retained his form and was able to play the
spring training season.
Injury problems happened with nonstop interval for Tolbert as he experienced side meniscus in his right shoulder. He played a key role in his return game and smashed back-to-back home-runs to give Twins a persuasive win. Tolbert was sloppy at the start of
2008 but then he recovered his form by joining bull-pen sessions and had his first Major League hit during that year.
At the start of spring training season during 2008, he played superbly as he struck some valuable runs off the Los Angeles Angels’ starting pitcher, Joe Saunders. In a game against Kansas City Royals, Tolbert hit his initial RBI and boosted up his confidence.
During 2009, Tolbert batted with a full confidence and hit decisive RBIs with high grand slams. That season was most productive for him and the Twins. He had managed to raise his hitting average also during the 2009 season. Tolbert showed a stylish performance
in his fielding as well. He gave the Twins some unbelievable victories by making stunning catches at left and right-field.
Tolbert also saved some crucial runs for his team and played frequently for the Twins as their veteran players suffered some injuries at that time.
May 21, 2009 was a memorable day in his professional career as Tolbert struck his first home-run and gave the Twins an exciting win against the Chicago White Sox. He ended his 2009 season with an exemplary batting average.
Tolbert’s career has been a combination of both high and low. However, he has the potential of being a very competitive player. If he remains healthy, he can definitely contribute towards the Twins making it to the MLB post-season.
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