A unique athlete, Eric Hosmer’s leadership abilities in the clubhouse has unarguably established him as a formidable force in the Major Baseball League (MLB). From his days in the minor league ranks to his ascension into the MLB, the first baseman has recorded exhilarating results. In other words, he is considered a hot talent-lava with potential and intensity who has turned into major league rock. More so, Hosmer is valued because he brings prestige and completeness to the game. Here’s how the MLB star became one of the league’s most beloved players.
Early Life
A Floridian, Eric Hosmer was born on October 1989. Though his hometown is South Miami, Hosmer grew up in Cooper City. The MLB star’s athletic skills were evident from an early age and with support from his family, Eric honed his baseball skills through dedicated practice with an instructor and also by watching MLB team games.
Eric Hosmer began recording stellar performances on the field during his high school days at American Heritage School, Plantation, Florida. It was during this time that he joined the minor league ranks and helped his team to victory in some state championships. Hosmer’s skills and intensity could not go unnoticed and soon established him as one of the top major league prospects. In fact, he clinched a couple of awards back in his high school days. Notably, Hosmer was a recipient of the American Amateur Baseball Congress Connie Mack MVP award and was also named the Baseball Player of the Year twice.
Professional Accomplishments
Eric Hosmer’s golden chance for the professional play came in 2008 when he graduated from the minor league ranks and was drafted into the MLB as the third overall in the first round by Kansas City Royals. He made his MLB debut as a first baseman for the Royals in May 2011.
He spent the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the Royals and was a pillar of the team. The first baseman remarkably helped the Royals team to victory at the 2015 World Series before eventually hitting free agency. The World Series win was major for the Royals as the last time they clinched the title was since 1985. Eric Hosmer’s work at first base hasn’t been without honours. Notably, in the course of his career so far, the first baseman has won four Gold Gloves, a Silver Slugger Award and a 2016 Midsummer Classic All-Star Game MVP Award.
Hosmer currently plays for the San Diego Padres after he signed an eight-year, $144 million pact with the team in 2018. By implication, the deal which is the largest in franchise history will have the Padres pay Hosmer an annual sum of $21 million from 2018 to 2022. Thereafter, the infielder can then opt out with the Pads or settle for another $39 million through 2025.
His Family
Eric Hosmer is the younger of two sons born to Mike and Illeana Hosmer. Eric and his older brother Mike Hosmer Jr. have very supportive parents who helped them in their chosen career paths. While the younger of the Hosmer boys earn a living as a sportsman and an MLB star, his big brother Mike Jr, found success in the business/financial sector where he currently works as a stockbroker.
Who’s The Girlfriend Kacie McDonnell?
Eric Hosmer has had an interesting dating history. Although the MLB first baseman is not yet married, he is perhaps just a few steps away from walking down the aisle with his heartthrob. The woman who is currently behind Hosmer’s smiles is a broadcaster, Kacie McDonnell. The lovebirds became an item in June 2015 and have been together since then.
Although Eric and Kacie have not let fans in on the next steps in their relationship, fans hope their relationship ends happily ever after! The pair continues to wax strong together and are presumed to be living their best lives yet. Prior to McDonnell, the MLB star was romantically linked to a lady named Kimberly Figueroa.
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How Tall is He?
Eric Hosmer has impressive physical features. The MLB first baseman towers at a height of 6 feet 4 inches, complemented by the weight of about 102 kg. His other body measurements have not been disclosed but judging by his look over the years, it is apparent that Hosmer puts in quite an effort to maintain his athletic build.
Other Interesting Facts About Eric Hosmer
1. It is uncommon knowledge that Hosmer initially earned a scholarship to play collegiate baseball at Arizona State University, but he later ditched the offer when he was drafted into the major league by the Kansas City Royals.
2. In 2018, Eric Hosmer lost a former Royals teammate and friend Yordano Ventura. He, therefore, chose to change his jersey number to #30 as a memorial nod to Ventura.
3. Eric Hosmer is active on social media. While he may not be present on all popular social networking sites, the MLB star has amassed a strong fanbase on Twitter and Instagram.