Mike Sharperson facts for kids

Michael Tyrone Sharperson (born October 4, 1961 – died May 26, 1996) was a talented infielder in Major League Baseball. He played for three different teams: the Toronto Blue Jays (1987), the Los Angeles Dodgers (1987–1993), and the Atlanta Braves (1995). Mike Sharperson was right-handed, meaning he batted and threw with his right hand. He was born in Orangeburg, South Carolina.

During his eight years in professional baseball, Sharperson played in 557 games. He had a batting average of .280, which is quite good. He also hit 10 home runs and brought in 123 runs for his teams.

Mike Sharperson's Baseball Career

Mike Sharperson started his journey in baseball when the Toronto Blue Jays picked him in the first round of the 1981 amateur draft. This meant they chose him as one of the best young players to join their team. He first played in a Major League Baseball game with the Blue Jays in 1987. Later that same year, he moved to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers

Sharperson became an important part of the Los Angeles Dodgers team that won the 1988 World Series. This was a huge achievement in baseball! He was known as one of "The Stunt Men." This nickname was given to a group of players who could play many different positions on the field.

Mike Sharperson was very versatile. He often played third base and second base. But he could also play shortstop, first base, and even right field. This made him a valuable player for the Dodgers.

In 1990, Sharperson had a great season. He hit for a .297 batting average. He also achieved his highest number of hits in a season with 106. He played in 129 games that year, which was also a career high for him.

His best season came in 1992. That year, he hit for an impressive .300 batting average. He also had 21 doubles and scored 48 runs. All of these were personal bests for him. Because of his excellent performance, he was chosen to be part of the National League All-Star team. This is a big honor in baseball, as only the best players are selected.

Later Career and Retirement

After the 1993 season, the Dodgers decided to release Mike Sharperson. He then signed with the Red Sox and later with the Cubs. However, he did not play in any games for these teams.

In 1995, he played in seven games for the Atlanta Braves. After that season, he became a free agent. This means he was free to sign with any team he wanted. He then signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres. This meant he would play for one of their smaller teams, hoping to get back to the Major Leagues.

Remembering Mike Sharperson

In 1996, Mike Sharperson was playing for the Triple-A Las Vegas Stars. This was a minor league team for the San Diego Padres. He was on his way to the airport to join the Padres team in Montreal. Sadly, he was involved in a car accident and passed away. He was 34 years old.

Mike Sharperson is remembered as a skilled and versatile baseball player. He was a two-time World Series champion and an All-Star.

See also

• List of baseball players who died during their careers