Ken Landreaux facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ken Landreaux |
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| Center fielder | |||
| Born: December 22, 1954 Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
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| debut | |||
| September 11, 1977, for the California Angels | |||
| Last appearance | |||
| October 4, 1987, for the Los Angeles Dodgers | |||
| MLB statistics | |||
| Batting average | .268 | ||
| Home runs | 91 | ||
| Runs batted in | 479 | ||
| Teams | |||
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| Career highlights and awards | |||
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Kenneth Francis Landreaux (born December 22, 1954) is a former American professional baseball player. He was a center fielder in Major League Baseball (MLB). Ken played for the California Angels, Minnesota Twins, and Los Angeles Dodgers. His career in MLB lasted from 1977 to 1987.
Contents
Ken Landreaux's Baseball Journey
Starting His Career
Ken Landreaux grew up in Compton, California. After high school, he was drafted by the Houston Astros in 1973. However, he decided to go to Arizona State University instead. While at Arizona State, he played in the College World Series in 1975 and 1976. He played alongside other future MLB stars.
In 1976, the California Angels chose Ken in the first round of the MLB draft. He made his big league debut on September 11, 1977. In that first game, he showed off his strong arm. He threw out three base runners from the outfield!
Becoming a Star Player
In 1979, Ken was traded to the Minnesota Twins. He was part of a trade that sent him and other players for Rod Carew. In 1980, Ken had an amazing season. He set a Minnesota Twins record with a 31-game hitting streak. This was one of the longest hitting streaks in the American League since 1949. He still holds this record for the Twins today.
World Series Champion
Ken was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981. He became a key part of the team. That same year, the Dodgers won the 1981 World Series. Ken caught the final out of the series. It was a fly ball hit to center field.
His best seasons were in 1982 and 1983. He often batted second in the lineup. He and Steve Sax were a great duo. Ken hit over .280 and stole at least 30 bases in both seasons. In 1983, he hit a career-high 17 home runs. He played for the Dodgers until he finished his career in 1987.
After Baseball
After his playing days, Ken Landreaux continued to be involved with baseball.
Giving Back to Baseball
He enjoys teaching young baseball players. He works at the Urban Youth Academy in Compton. This academy helps young athletes learn and grow.
Continuing His Education
Ken also went back to college. He returned to Arizona State University in 2012. He earned a Bachelor of Liberal Studies Degree in 2014.
Family Connections
Ken Landreaux has a famous cousin. His cousin is Enos Cabell, who also played in Major League Baseball. Enos was a third baseman.
