Jump to content

Greg Golson: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
Tags: Visual edit Mobile edit Mobile web edit
 
(37 intermediate revisions by 7 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|American baseball player (born 1985)}}
{{short description|American baseball player (born 1985)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox baseball biography
{{Infobox baseball biography
|name=Greg Golson
|name=Greg Golson
|image=Greg Golson on March 20, 2012.jpg
|image=Greg Golson on March 20, 2012.jpg
|image_size=
|image_size=
|caption=Golson with the [[Kansas City Royals]] in {{by|2012}} spring training
|caption=Golson with the [[Kansas City Royals]] in {{baseball year|2012}} spring training
|position=[[Outfielder]]
|position=[[Outfielder]]
|team=
|team=
Line 36: Line 37:


==Amateur career==
==Amateur career==
Golson attended [[John B. Connally High School]] in [[Austin, Texas]]. He committed to the University of Texas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MLB Draft Database |url=https://www.baseballamerica.com/draft-history/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Baseball America |language=en-US}}</ref> [[Baseball America]] ranked him as the 29th best player (and 11th best high school player) in the 2004 MLB Draft.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2004-06-08 |title=Phils take high schooler at No. 21 ** Greg Golson, a five-tool outfileder from Austin, Texas, was rated the best high school athlete in the draft with the second-best arm. |url=https://www.mcall.com/2004/06/08/phils-take-high-schooler-at-no-21-greg-golson-a-five-tool-outfileder-from-austin-texas-was-rated-the-best-high-school-athlete-in-the-draft-with-the-second-best-arm/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=The Morning Call |language=en-US}}</ref> Golson was named to [[USA Today All-USA High School Baseball Team|USA Today's All-USA High School Baseball Team]] alongside future MLB stars like [[Homer Bailey]], [[Justin Upton]], [[Neil Walker]], and [[Trevor Plouffe]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=USA Today High School Baseball Player of the Year {{!}} Baseball Almanac |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/awards/All-USA_Today_High_School_Baseball_Team_Award.shtml |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=www.baseball-almanac.com}}</ref>
Golson attended [[John B. Connally High School]] in [[Austin, Texas]]. He committed to the University of Texas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MLB Draft Database |url=https://www.baseballamerica.com/draft-history/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball America |language=en-US}}</ref> [[Baseball America]] ranked him as the 29th best player (and 11th best high school player) in the 2004 MLB Draft.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=June 8, 2004 |title=Phils take high schooler at No. 21 ** Greg Golson, a five-tool outfileder from Austin, Texas, was rated the best high school athlete in the draft with the second-best arm. |url=https://www.mcall.com/2004/06/08/phils-take-high-schooler-at-no-21-greg-golson-a-five-tool-outfileder-from-austin-texas-was-rated-the-best-high-school-athlete-in-the-draft-with-the-second-best-arm/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=The Morning Call |language=en-US}}</ref> Golson was named to [[USA Today All-USA High School Baseball Team|USA Today's All-USA High School Baseball Team]] alongside future MLB stars like [[Homer Bailey]], [[Justin Upton]], [[Neil Walker]], and [[Trevor Plouffe]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=USA Today High School Baseball Player of the Year {{!}} Baseball Almanac |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/awards/All-USA_Today_High_School_Baseball_Team_Award.shtml |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=www.baseball-almanac.com}}</ref>


In 2015, Golson's former high school retired #15, his former uniform number from when he played.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2015-02-25 |title=Baseball Retires Golson's #15 |url=https://connallycougars.org/2015/02/25/baseball-retires-golsons-15/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Connally High School |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 2015, Golson's former high school retired #15, his former uniform number from when he played.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=February 25, 2015 |title=Baseball Retires Golson's #15 |url=https://connallycougars.org/2015/02/25/baseball-retires-golsons-15/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Connally High School |language=en-US}}</ref>


==Professional career==
==Professional career==


===Philadelphia Phillies===
===Philadelphia Phillies===
The Philadelphia Phillies selected Golson with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the [[2004 Major League Baseball Draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 Philadelphia Phillies Draft Class - The Baseball Cube |url=https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/draft_class/2004~22/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=TheBaseballCube.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2004-06-08 |title=MLB 2004 Draft selections |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1817616 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> After drafting him, the Phillies assigned Golson to their [[Gulf Coast League]] affiliate in rookie ball.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=July 1, 2004 |title=Michaels is putting his bid in for center field job ** The outfielder has raised his average to .309 in his recent starts. |url=https://www.mcall.com/2004/07/01/michaels-is-putting-his-bid-in-for-center-field-job-the-outfielder-has-raised-his-average-to-309-in-his-recent-starts/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=The Morning Call |language=en-US}}</ref> He hit .295 with eight doubles, five triples, and 12 stolen bases in 47 games.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 GCL Phillies Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=c0e83d52 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> After the season, [[Baseball America]] ranked him as the fourth-best prospect in the Phillies system.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Filoromo |first=Victor |date=2016-01-08 |title=Phillies Top Prospect Lists: A Look Back |url=https://www.thegoodphight.com/2016/1/8/10728598/phillies-top-prospect-lists-a-look-back |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=The Good Phight |language=en}}</ref>
The Philadelphia Phillies selected Golson with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the [[2004 Major League Baseball Draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 Philadelphia Phillies Draft Class - The Baseball Cube |url=https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/draft_class/2004~22/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=TheBaseballCube.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=June 8, 2004 |title=MLB 2004 Draft selections |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1817616 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> After drafting him, the Phillies assigned Golson to their [[Gulf Coast League]] affiliate in rookie ball.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=July 1, 2004 |title=Michaels is putting his bid in for center field job ** The outfielder has raised his average to .309 in his recent starts. |url=https://www.mcall.com/2004/07/01/michaels-is-putting-his-bid-in-for-center-field-job-the-outfielder-has-raised-his-average-to-309-in-his-recent-starts/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=The Morning Call |language=en-US}}</ref> He hit .295 with eight doubles, five triples, and 12 stolen bases in 47 games.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 GCL Phillies Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=c0e83d52 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> After the season, [[Baseball America]] ranked him as the fourth-best prospect in the Phillies system.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Filoromo |first=Victor |date=January 8, 2016 |title=Phillies Top Prospect Lists: A Look Back |url=https://www.thegoodphight.com/2016/1/8/10728598/phillies-top-prospect-lists-a-look-back |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=The Good Phight |language=en}}</ref>


Golson's speed became a feature of his game, and went on to steal over 100&nbsp;bases in five minor-league seasons.<ref name="brefminors">{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=golson001gre|title=Greg Golson Minor League Statistics & History|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=2009-05-30}}</ref> In a 2008 interview, Golson said, regarding his success as a base-stealer, that "<nowiki>[you've]</nowiki> got to be real observant of what the pitcher is doing, if they fall into patterns, what the catcher is doing, the counts, the game situation—stuff like that&nbsp;... but speed is the big thing".<ref name="times">{{cite web |last=LeBlanc |first=Jay |date=2008-09-07 |title=Welcome to the show, Greg Golson |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/national-pastime/2008/sep/07/welcome-to-the-show-greg-golson/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017094319/http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/national-pastime/2008/sep/07/welcome-to-the-show-greg-golson/ |archive-date=October 17, 2012 |access-date=2009-05-30 |work=Washington Times}}</ref>
Golson's speed became a feature of his game, and went on to steal over 100&nbsp;bases in five minor-league seasons.<ref name="brefminors">{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=golson001gre|title=Greg Golson Minor League Statistics & History|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=May 30, 2009}}</ref> In a 2008 interview, Golson said, regarding his success as a base-stealer, that "<nowiki>[you've]</nowiki> got to be real observant of what the pitcher is doing, if they fall into patterns, what the catcher is doing, the counts, the game situation—stuff like that&nbsp;... but speed is the big thing".<ref name="times">{{cite web |last=LeBlanc |first=Jay |date=September 7, 2008 |title=Welcome to the show, Greg Golson |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/national-pastime/2008/sep/07/welcome-to-the-show-greg-golson/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017094319/http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/national-pastime/2008/sep/07/welcome-to-the-show-greg-golson/ |archive-date=October 17, 2012 |access-date=May 30, 2009 |work=Washington Times}}</ref>


In his second minor-league season, Golson was promoted to the [[Class A (baseball)|A-level]] [[Lakewood BlueClaws]] in [[Lakewood, New Jersey]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=From the Shore to the Show |url=https://www.milb.com/jersey-shore/team/shore-to-the-show |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=MiLB.com |language=en}}</ref> He continued to accumulate high strikeout numbers, with 106 in 375 at-bats, but he also posted a .264 average, hit 8 triples (a career-high), and stole 25 bases.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2005 Lakewood BlueClaws Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=72391786 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> After the 2005 season, Golson was named the second-best prospect in the Phillies' system by [[Baseball America]], the highest spot he would reach in those rankings.<ref name="cube">{{cite web |title=Greg Golson |url=http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/G/Greg-Golson.shtml |access-date=2009-05-30 |publisher=The Baseball Cube}}</ref> He was also ranked as the 14th best prospect in the [[South Atlantic League]].<ref>{{Cite book |title=Baseball America Almanac 2006 |publisher=Baseball America Inc. |isbn=1-932391-07-X |editor-last=Simpson |editor-first=Allan |location=Durham, North Carolina |pages=304 |language=English}}</ref> Most of the 2006 season was spent at Lakewood as well, with a late-season promotion to the [[Clearwater Threshers]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shenk |first=Larry |date=2016-11-07 |title=Minor League Notes |url=https://philliesinsider.mlblogs.com/minor-league-notes-574e02a53ef9 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Medium |language=en}}</ref> Between the two levels, Golson hit .233 and struck out 160 times. He hit 13 [[home run]]s and [[Run batted in|batted in]] 48 [[Run (baseball)|runs]]. Golson also accumulated 127 hits in 593 [[plate appearance]]s.<ref name="brefminors"/>
In 2007, his second minor-league season, Golson was promoted to the [[Class A (baseball)|A-level]] [[Lakewood BlueClaws]] in [[Lakewood, New Jersey]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=From the Shore to the Show |url=https://www.milb.com/jersey-shore/team/shore-to-the-show |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MiLB.com |language=en}}</ref> He continued to accumulate high strikeout numbers, with 106 in 375 at-bats, but he also posted a .264 average, hit 8 triples (a career-high), and stole 25 bases.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2005 Lakewood BlueClaws Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=72391786 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> After the 2005 season, Golson was named the third-best prospect in the Phillies' system by [[Baseball America]], the highest spot he would reach in those rankings.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |title=Baseball America 2007 Prospect Handbook |publisher=Baseball America Inc. |isbn=978-1-932391-14-5 |editor-last=Callis |editor-first=John |location=Durham, North Carolina |pages=334–335 |language=English}}</ref> He was also ranked as the 14th best prospect in the [[South Atlantic League]].<ref>{{Cite book |title=Baseball America Almanac 2006 |publisher=Baseball America Inc. |isbn=1-932391-07-X |editor-last=Simpson |editor-first=Allan |location=Durham, North Carolina |pages=304 |language=English}}</ref>


Most of the 2006 season was spent at Lakewood as well, with a late-season promotion to the [[Clearwater Threshers]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shenk |first=Larry |date=November 7, 2016 |title=Minor League Notes |url=https://philliesinsider.mlblogs.com/minor-league-notes-574e02a53ef9 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Medium |language=en}}</ref> Between the two levels, Golson hit .233 and struck out 160 times. He hit 13 [[home run]]s and [[Run batted in|batted in]] 48 [[Run (baseball)|runs]]. Golson also accumulated 127 hits in 593 [[plate appearance]]s.<ref name="brefminors" /> After the season, he was rated as the Phillies' 10th best prospect by Baseball America.<ref name=":2" />
⚫
Strikeouts continued to plague Golson as he began the 2007 season. Between Clearwater and the [[Reading Phillies]], Golson struck out 173 times in 607 plate appearances. He hit 15 home runs in 2007, with 32 doubles and 5 triples. His .273 average and .426 [[slugging percentage]] were a large improvement over the previous year.<ref name="brefminors"/> His prospect ranking dropped to seventh.<ref name=":1" />

⚫
Strikeouts continued to plague Golson as he began the 2007 season. Between Clearwater and the [[Reading Phillies]], Golson struck out 173 times in 607 plate appearances. He was a [[Florida State League]] All-Star that year and was promoted to Double-A in July.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lee |first=Demorris A |date=July 28, 2007 |title=PRIMED FOR MAJOR-LEAGUE AT-BAT |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2007/07/28/primed-for-major-league-at-bat/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}}</ref> Golson hit a combined 15 home runs in 2007, with 32 doubles and 5 triples. His .273 average and .426 [[slugging percentage]] were a large improvement over the previous year.<ref name="brefminors" /> His prospect ranking dropped to seventh.<ref name=":1" />


[[File:IMG 7902 Greg Golson.jpg|upright|thumb|right|Golson batting for the [[Reading Phillies]] in {{Baseball year|2008}}]]
[[File:IMG 7902 Greg Golson.jpg|upright|thumb|right|Golson batting for the [[Reading Phillies]] in {{Baseball year|2008}}]]
Golson remained at Reading for the 2008 season. A .282 average, 13 home runs, and 18 doubles were enough to catch the eye of the major league club, who called him up to the majors on August 31.<ref name="brefminors"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://fantasybaseball.usatoday.com/content/player_news.asp?sport=MLB&id=235&line=252212|title=Greg Golson|date=2008-08-31|work=USA Today|access-date=2009-05-30}}</ref> He made his debut on September 7, [[Pinch hit|pinch-hitting]] for [[catcher (baseball)|catcher]] [[Carlos Ruiz (baseball)|Carlos Ruiz]].<ref name="times"/> He made several appearances as a late-inning defensive replacement, which was fine with Golson. "You can really impact a game, where people will remember stuff … if you make a great catch that saves the game, people remember that for a long time."<ref name="times"/> With the Phillies, Golson went 0-for-6 in the last month of the 2008 season, scoring two runs and stealing a base.<ref name="bref">{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/golsogr01.shtml|title=Greg Golson Statistics and History|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=2009-05-30}}</ref> Golson was not part of the postseason roster for the 2008 Phillies, who went on to win the [[2008 World Series|World Series]], but he did travel with the team and was in uniform for all the club's playoff games.
Golson remained at Reading for the 2008 season. He was named an Eastern League All-Star<ref>{{Cite web |last=HICKLING |first=DAN |title=Eastern League All-Stars: Connecticut’s Martinez is top arm |url=https://www.norwichbulletin.com/story/sports/pro/2008/07/17/eastern-league-all-stars-connecticut/65046767007/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Norwich Bulletin |language=en-US}}</ref> and played in the All-Star Futures Game that year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 27, 2008 |title=Baseball unveils rosters for All-Star Futures game |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/allstar08/news/story?id=3462815 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> After hitting .282 with 13 home runs, 18 doubles, and 23 stolen bases, Golson was called up by the Phillies on September 1.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nationals 7-4 Phillies (Sep 1, 2008) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280901120 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218133848/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280901120 |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 18, 2024 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2008 Reading Phillies Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He made his debut on September 3, pinch-running for [[Pat Burrell]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nationals 9-7 Phillies (Sep 3, 2008) Box Score |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/boxscore/_/gameId/280903120 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> He made several appearances as a late-inning defensive replacement, which was fine with Golson. "You can really impact a game, where people will remember stuff … if you make a great catch that saves the game, people remember that for a long time."<ref name="times"/> With the Phillies, Golson went 0-for-6 in six games, scoring two runs and stealing a base.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Greg Golson 2008 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=golsogr01&t=b&year=2008 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He was not included on the postseason roster that year, instead being assigned to the team's Florida complex.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lawrence |first=Ryan |date=September 29, 2008 |title=Collision left Victorino bruised, not broken |url=https://www.delcotimes.com/2008/09/29/collision-left-victorino-bruised-not-broken/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Delco Times |language=en-US}}</ref>


===Texas Rangers===
===Texas Rangers===
On November 20, 2008, Golson was traded by the Phillies to the Texas Rangers for [[John Mayberry, Jr.]]<ref name="trade">{{cite web | last = Mandel | first = Ken | title = Phillies deal Golson to Rangers | work = mlb.com | date = 20 November 2008 | url = http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081120&content_id=3686936&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp | access-date = 27 January 2009}}</ref> Phillies general manager [[Rubén Amaro, Jr.]] called the trade a {{"'}}speed-for-power' swap".<ref name="trade"/>
On November 20, 2008, Golson was traded by the Phillies to the Texas Rangers for [[John Mayberry, Jr.]]<ref name="trade">{{cite web |last=Mandel |first=Ken |date=November 20, 2008 |title=Phillies deal Golson to Rangers |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081120&content_id=3686936&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102181713/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081120&content_id=3686936&vkey=hotstove2008&fext=.jsp |archive-date=November 2, 2012 |access-date=January 27, 2009 |work=mlb.com}}</ref> Phillies general manager [[Rubén Amaro, Jr.]] called the trade a {{"'}}speed-for-power' swap".<ref name="trade"/> Golson spent most of the season with the [[Oklahoma City Baseball Club|Oklahoma City RedHawks]] in Triple-A. He was called up on May 4, got one plate appearance, and was optioned again on May 9.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Athletics 9-4 Rangers (May 7, 2009) Box Score |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/boxscore/_/gameId/290507111 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Transactions |url=https://www.mlb.com/rangers/roster/transactions/2009/05 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> In 146 plate appearances, Golson hit .289 with five doubles, three triples, six stolen bases, and 40 RBI with Oklahoma City.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2009 Oklahoma City RedHawks |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=134eca5a |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-reference.com}}</ref>
Golson received one at-bat for the Rangers in 2009,<ref name="bref"/> spending most of his season at the [[Triple-A (baseball)|AAA level]] with the [[Oklahoma RedHawks]]. In 146 plate appearances, Golson accumulated a .289 average with five doubles and three triples. He also stole six bases and scored fourteen runs in the opening two months.<ref name="brefminors"/>


===New York Yankees===
===New York Yankees===
On January 26, 2010, Golson was traded to the [[New York Yankees]] in exchange for minor league player Mitch Hilligoss and cash, after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers a few days earlier.<ref>{{cite news|title=New York Yankees acquire outfielder Greg Golson|url=http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20100126&content_id=7970090&vkey=pr_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=MLB.com|date=January 26, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Durrett|first1=Richard|title=Rangers get infielder Hilligoss, cash|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/mlb/news/story?id=4860151|work=ESPN.com|date=January 26, 2010}}</ref> Golson was used as primarily a defensive replacement. On September 14 against the [[Tampa Bay Rays]] at [[Tropicana Field]], Golson astonished players and spectators with a strong throw when threw out the speedy [[Carl Crawford]] in an attempt to reach third base after tagging up for the final out of the game.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Shpigel|first1=Ben|title=Surreal in the Moment, a Highlight Throw Will Be Hard to Forget|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/16/sports/baseball/16pins.html?_r=0|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=New York Times|date=September 15, 2010}}</ref> Golson would later be included on the Yankees' 2010 postseason roster until the team lost the [[2010 ALCS]] to the Texas Rangers.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Hoch|first1=Bryan|title=Yankees round out roster with Golson|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101005&content_id=15422924&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=MLB.com|date=October 6, 2010}}</ref> He spent most of the 2011 season with the Yankees' AAA affiliate, the [[Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees]]. He was released prior to the [[Rule 5 draft]] that offseason.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Axisa|first1=Michael|title=Yanks take one, trade for another in Rule 5 Draft|url=http://riveraveblues.com/2011/12/yanks-take-one-trade-for-another-in-rule-5-draft-60706/|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=River Avenue Blues|publisher=Yes Network|date=December 8, 2011}}</ref>
On January 26, 2010, Golson was traded to the [[New York Yankees]] in exchange for minor league player Mitch Hilligoss and cash, after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers a few days earlier.<ref>{{cite news |date=January 26, 2010 |title=New York Yankees acquire outfielder Greg Golson |url=http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20100126&content_id=7970090&vkey=pr_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100219120615/https://www.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20100126&content_id=7970090&vkey=pr_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy |archive-date=February 19, 2010 |access-date=August 8, 2014 |work=MLB.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Durrett|first1=Richard|title=Rangers get infielder Hilligoss, cash|url=https://www.espn.com/dallas/mlb/news/story?id=4860151|work=ESPN.com|date=January 26, 2010}}</ref> He was called up for the first time on May 4 and got his first major league hit on May 12 against the Detroit Tigers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yankees 8-0 Tigers (May 12, 2010) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300512306 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240218163604/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300512306 |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 18, 2024 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> After six appearances, he was sent back to Triple-A on May 18.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 18, 2010 |title=Yankees recall RHP Melancon, option OF Golson |url=https://www.columbian.com/news/2010/may/18/yankees-recall-rhp-melancon-option-of-golson/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=The Columbian |language=en-US}}</ref> Golson was recalled when roster expanded on September 1.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Transactions |url=https://www.mlb.com/yankees/roster/transactions/2010/09 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> Playing against the [[Tampa Bay Rays]] at [[Tropicana Field]] on September 14, Golson astonished players and spectators with a strong throw from right field to throw out the speedy [[Carl Crawford]] at third base for the final out of the game.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Shpigel|first1=Ben|title=Surreal in the Moment, a Highlight Throw Will Be Hard to Forget|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/16/sports/baseball/16pins.html?_r=0|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=New York Times|date=September 15, 2010}}</ref> Golson was included on the team's postseason roster.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hoch |first1=Bryan |date=October 6, 2010 |title=Yankees round out roster with Golson |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101005&content_id=15422924&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105165026/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20101005&content_id=15422924&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb |archive-date=November 5, 2012 |access-date=August 8, 2014 |work=MLB.com}}</ref>

He spent most of the 2011 season in Triple-A with the [[Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees]]. He was briefly called up on July 14 when Alex Rodriguez went on the disabled list.<ref>{{Cite web |last=George A. |first=King III |date=July 14, 2011 |title=Yankees call up Golson to replace A-Rod |url=https://nypost.com/2011/07/14/yankees-call-up-golson-to-replace-a-rod/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=New York Post |language=en-US}}</ref> Golson was again recalled when rosters expanded in September.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wassef |first=Mira |date=September 7, 2011 |title=Yankees' call-up Brackman glad he didn't give up on baseball |url=https://www.recordonline.com/story/sports/mlb/2011/09/07/yankees-call-up-brackman-glad/49912072007/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Times Herald-Record |language=en-US}}</ref> He was released on December 8.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Transactions |url=https://www.mlb.com/yankees/roster/transactions/2011/12 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>


===Kansas City Royals===
===Kansas City Royals===
The [[Kansas City Royals]] signed Golson to a minor league contract on December 13, 2011.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kagael|first1=Dick|title=Royals sign four to Minor League contracts|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111213&content_id=26155658&vkey=news_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=MLB.com|date=December 13, 2011}}</ref>
The [[Kansas City Royals]] signed Golson to a minor league contract on December 13, 2011.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kagael |first1=Dick |date=December 13, 2011 |title=Royals sign four to Minor League contracts |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111213&content_id=26155658&vkey=news_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809143513/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111213&content_id=26155658&vkey=news_kc&fext=.jsp&c_id=kc |archive-date=August 9, 2014 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |work=MLB.com}}</ref>


===Chicago White Sox===
===Chicago White Sox===
The Royals traded Golson to the [[Chicago White Sox]] for cash considerations on March 25, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kaegal|title=Giavotella optioned; Getz, Yuni to share second|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120325&content_id=27594312&vkey=news_kc&c_id=kc&partnerId=rss_kc|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=MLB.com|date=March 25, 2013}}</ref> Golson played in 2012 with Triple-A [[Charlotte Knights|Charlotte]], where in 109 games, he hit .276 with 6 HR, 52 RBI and 20 SB.
The Royals traded Golson to the [[Chicago White Sox]] for cash considerations on March 25, 2012.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kaegal |date=March 25, 2013 |title=Giavotella optioned; Getz, Yuni to share second |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120325&content_id=27594312&vkey=news_kc&c_id=kc&partnerId=rss_kc |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809113027/https://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120325&content_id=27594312&vkey=news_kc&c_id=kc&partnerId=rss_kc |archive-date=August 9, 2014 |access-date=August 8, 2014 |work=MLB.com}}</ref> Golson played in 2012 with Triple-A [[Charlotte Knights|Charlotte]], where he hit .276 with 6 HR, 52 RBI and 20 SB in 109 games.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 Charlotte Knights Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi?id=744b16b7 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


===Colorado Rockies===
===Colorado Rockies===
The [[Colorado Rockies]] signed Golson to a minor league contract on January 30, 2013.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Renck|first1=Troy E.|title=Rockies' Jordan Pacheco working to catch on behind the plate|url=http://www.denverpost.com/ci_22494967/pacheco-working-catch-behind-plate|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=Denver Post|date=February 1, 2013}}</ref> Golson began 2013 with Triple-A [[Colorado Springs Sky Sox|Colorado Springs]]. He played there until he was released on July 19.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.gazette.com/roxsox/2013/07/19/cook-golson-leave-sky-sox-francis-heads-to-bullpen/ |title=Cook, Golson leave Sky Sox; Galarraga arrives; Francis heads to bullpen |work=Colorado Springs Gazette |first=Joe |last=Paisley |date=July 19, 2013}}</ref> In 55 games with the Sky Sox, Golson hit .244 with 5 HR, 22 RBI and 12 SB.
The [[Colorado Rockies]] signed Golson to a minor league contract on January 30, 2013.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Renck|first1=Troy E.|title=Rockies' Jordan Pacheco working to catch on behind the plate|url=http://www.denverpost.com/ci_22494967/pacheco-working-catch-behind-plate|access-date=August 8, 2014|work=Denver Post|date=February 1, 2013}}</ref> Golson began 2013 with Triple-A [[Colorado Springs Sky Sox|Colorado Springs]]. In 55 games with the Sky Sox, Golson hit .244 with 5 HR, 22 RBI and 12 SB. He was released on July 19.<ref>{{cite web |last=Paisley |first=Joe |date=July 19, 2013 |title=Cook, Golson leave Sky Sox; Galarraga arrives; Francis heads to bullpen |url=http://blogs.gazette.com/roxsox/2013/07/19/cook-golson-leave-sky-sox-francis-heads-to-bullpen/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111101403/http://blogs.gazette.com/roxsox/2013/07/19/cook-golson-leave-sky-sox-francis-heads-to-bullpen/ |archive-date=November 11, 2013 |work=Colorado Springs Gazette}}</ref>


===Lancaster Barnstormers ===
===Lancaster Barnstormers ===
Golson signed with the [[Lancaster Stormers|Lancaster Barnstormers]] of the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball]] on July 27, 2013. He homered in his first at-bats.<ref name=":0" />
On July 27, 2013, Golson signed with the [[Lancaster Stormers|Lancaster Barnstormers]] of the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball]]. He homered in his first at-bat.<ref name=":0" />


===Atlanta Braves===
===Atlanta Braves===
Days after signing with the Barnstormers, Golson was signed to a minor league contract for the [[Atlanta Braves]] on July 31, 2013. He was assigned to Triple-A Gwinnett.<ref name=":0">{{cite news|title=Atlanta Braves sign Lancaster Barnstormers outfielder Greg Golson|url=http://lancasteronline.com/sports/atlanta-braves-sign-lancaster-barnstormers-outfielder-greg-golson/article_0930ef10-6f02-5ad7-8b5e-58cf23f4db20.html|access-date=August 8, 2014|publisher=Lancaster Online|date=July 31, 2013}}</ref>
On July 31, 2013, Golson joined the [[Atlanta Braves]] on a minor league contract. He was assigned to Triple-A Gwinnett.<ref name=":0">{{cite news|title=Atlanta Braves sign Lancaster Barnstormers outfielder Greg Golson|url=http://lancasteronline.com/sports/atlanta-braves-sign-lancaster-barnstormers-outfielder-greg-golson/article_0930ef10-6f02-5ad7-8b5e-58cf23f4db20.html|access-date=August 8, 2014|publisher=Lancaster Online|date=July 31, 2013}}</ref>


===Milwaukee Brewers===
===Milwaukee Brewers===
Golson signed a minor league contract for the [[Milwaukee Brewers]] in January 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Vaswani|first1=Navin|title=Jeff Francis, Delmon Young highlight Monday's minor-league signings|url=https://www.thescore.com/news/406968|access-date=August 8, 2014|publisher=theScore|date=January 13, 2011}}</ref> He was released in March.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-03-28 |title=Minor Moves: Duncan, Manzella, Russell, Rauch |url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/03/minor-moves-fontenot-butler-golson.html |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=MLB Trade Rumors |language=en-US}}</ref>
Golson signed a minor league contract with the [[Milwaukee Brewers]] in January 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Vaswani|first1=Navin|title=Jeff Francis, Delmon Young highlight Monday's minor-league signings|url=https://www.thescore.com/news/406968|access-date=August 8, 2014|publisher=theScore|date=January 13, 2011}}</ref> He was released in March.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 28, 2014 |title=Minor Moves: Duncan, Manzella, Russell, Rauch |url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/03/minor-moves-fontenot-butler-golson.html |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB Trade Rumors |language=en-US}}</ref>


===Lancaster Barnstormers===
===Lancaster Barnstormers (second stint)===
He signed with the [[Lancaster Barnstormers]] and appeared in 51 games for them.
In 2014, he signed with the [[Lancaster Barnstormers]] and hit .312 with two homers and 20 RBI in 51 games. During the playoffs, he hit .273, homering twice and driving in nine runs, as the Barnstormers won the championship that year.<ref name=":3" />


===Rojos del Aguila de Veracruz===
===Rojos del Aguila de Veracruz===
Golson signed with Rojos del Aquila de Veracruz of the [[Mexican League]] for the 2015 season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-04-30 |title=Minor Moves: Teaford, Cooney, Abreu, Golson |url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/04/minor-moves-cooney-abreu-golson.html |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=MLB Trade Rumors |language=en-US}}</ref>
On April 28, 2015, Golson signed with Rojos del Aquila de Veracruz of the [[Mexican League]] for the 2015 season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 30, 2015 |title=Minor Moves: Teaford, Cooney, Abreu, Golson |url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/04/minor-moves-cooney-abreu-golson.html |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB Trade Rumors |language=en-US}}</ref> In 22 games he hit .278/.323/.333 with 0 home runs, 8 RBIs and 8 stolen bases.


===Tigres de Quintana Roo===
===Tigres de Quintana Roo===
On May 26, 2015, he was traded to [[Tigres de Quintana Roo]] for right fielder [[Ramón Ramírez (Dominican pitcher)|Ramon Ramirez]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Greg Golson Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/greg-golson-449172 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>
On May 26, 2015, he was traded to [[Tigres de Quintana Roo]] for right fielder [[Ramón Ramírez (Dominican pitcher)|Ramon Ramirez]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Greg Golson Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/greg-golson-449172 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> In 58 games he hit .335/.416/.457 with 2 home runs, 38 RBIs and 13 stolen bases.

===New Britain Bees===
On March 18, 2016, Golson returned to the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball|Atlantic League]] when he signed a one-year deal with the [[New Britain Bees]]. In 96 games he hit .292/.338/.379 with 3 home runs, 38 RBIs and 18 stolen bases.

He was the team's first player with MLB experience.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 18, 2016 |title=Bees Sign MLB Veteran Greg Golson |url=http://www.atlanticleague.com/news/index.html?article_id=472 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=www.atlanticleague.com |language=en}}</ref> Golson re-signed with the [[New Britain Bees]] for the 2017 season<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bees Re-Sign Outfielder Greg Golson |url=http://www.atlanticleague.com/news/index.html?article_id=672 |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=www.atlanticleague.com |language=en}}</ref> but shortly after asked for his release to play in Mexico.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ashmore |first=Mike |date=May 27, 2017 |title=Former MLB player Golson expected to fill a need for Patriots |url=https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/sports/baseball/patriots/2017/05/27/former-mlb-player-golson-expected-fill-need-patriots/351427001/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Courier News |language=en-US}}</ref>


===Tigres de Quintana Roo (second stint)===
On March 18, 2016, Golson returned to the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball|Atlantic League]] when he signed a one-year deal with the [[New Britain Bees]]. He was the team's first player with MLB experience.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 18, 2016 |title=Bees Sign MLB Veteran Greg Golson |url=http://www.atlanticleague.com/news/index.html?article_id=472 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=www.atlanticleague.com |language=en}}</ref> Golson re-signed with the [[New Britain Bees]] for the 2017 season but shortly after asked for his release.
⚫
On April 10, 2017, Golson signed with the [[Tigres de Quintana Roo]] of the [[Mexican Baseball League]]. He was released on May 5, 2017.<ref name=":4" /> In 27 games he hit .260/.351/.300 with 0 home runs, 9 RBIs and 5 stolen bases.


===Somerset Patriots===
⚫
On April 10, 2017, Golson signed with the [[Tigres de Quintana Roo]] of the [[Mexican Baseball League]]. He was released on May 5, 2017.
⚫
On May 26, 2017, Golson signed with the [[Somerset Patriots]] of the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Russinoff |first=Marc |date=March 27, 2017 |title=Somerset Patriots Add Former MLB Outfielder Greg Golson |url=https://www.tapinto.net/towns/hillsborough/sections/sports/articles/somerset-patriots-add-former-mlb-outfielder-greg |website=Tap into Hillsborough}}</ref> He became a free agent following the season. In 43 games he hit .255/.290/.406 with 4 home runs, 26 RBIs and 4 stolen bases.


===Wichita Wingnuts===
⚫
On May 26, 2017, Golson signed with the [[Somerset Patriots]] of the [[Atlantic League of Professional Baseball]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Russinoff |first=Marc |date=March 27, 2017 |title=Somerset Patriots Add Former MLB Outfielder Greg Golson |url=https://www.tapinto.net/towns/hillsborough/sections/sports/articles/somerset-patriots-add-former-mlb-outfielder-greg |website=Tap into Hillsborough}}</ref> He became a free agent following the season.
On March 9, 2018, Golson signed with the [[Wichita Wingnuts]] of the [[American Association of Independent Professional Baseball|American Association]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=American Association of Professional Baseball - 2018 Transactions |url=https://aabaseball.com/transactions/2018-transactions/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=American Association of Professional Baseball |language=en-US}}</ref>


===Texas AirHogs===
On March 9, 2018, Golson signed with the [[Wichita Wingnuts]] of the [[American Association of Independent Professional Baseball|American Association]]. He was traded to the [[Texas AirHogs]] on March 28, 2018. He was released on March 5, 2019.
He was traded to the [[Texas AirHogs]] on March 28, 2018. On October 8, Texas exercised its option to keep Golson for the 2019 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=American Association of Professional Baseball - 2018 Transactions |url=https://aabaseball.com/transactions/2018-transactions/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=American Association of Professional Baseball |language=en-US}}</ref> He was released on March 5, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=American Association of Professional Baseball - 2019 Transactions |url=https://aabaseball.com/transactions/2019-transactions/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=American Association of Professional Baseball |language=en-US}}</ref> In 43 games he hit .259/.318/.333 with 1 home run and 11 RBIs.


===Lancaster Barnstormers (third stint)===
On May 27, 2019, Golson signed with the [[Lancaster Barnstormers]] of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GOLSON RETURNS TO LANCASTER |url=https://www.lancasterstormers.com/golson-returns-to-lancaster/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=lancasterstormers.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
On May 27, 2019, Golson signed with the [[Lancaster Barnstormers]] of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=GOLSON RETURNS TO LANCASTER |url=https://www.lancasterstormers.com/golson-returns-to-lancaster/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=lancasterstormers.com |language=en-US}}</ref> In 54 games he hit .267/.309/.341 with 2 home runs, 16 RBIs and 3 stolen bases.


Golson retired following the 2019 season and later was hired by the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]] in their pro scouting department.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Preciado |first=Daniel |date=2020-02-04 |title=Dodgers Add Greg Golson to Pro Scouting Department |url=https://dodgersnation.com/dodgers-add-greg-golson-to-pro-scouting-department/2020/02/04/ |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Dodgers Nation |language=en-us}}</ref>
Golson retired following the 2019 season and later was hired by the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]] in their pro scouting department.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Preciado |first=Daniel |date=February 4, 2020 |title=Dodgers Add Greg Golson to Pro Scouting Department |url=https://dodgersnation.com/dodgers-add-greg-golson-to-pro-scouting-department/2020/02/04/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=Dodgers Nation |language=en-us}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 137: Line 151:
[[Category:Texas Rangers players]]
[[Category:Texas Rangers players]]
[[Category:Tigres de Quintana Roo players]]
[[Category:Tigres de Quintana Roo players]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American sportspeople]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American sportsmen]]
[[Category:20th-century African-American people]]
[[Category:20th-century African-American sportsmen]]

Latest revision as of 17:31, 6 November 2024

Greg Golson
Golson with the Kansas City Royals in 2012 spring training
Outfielder
Born: (1985-09-17) September 17, 1985 (age 39)
Austin, Texas, U.S.
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
MLB debut
September 3, 2008, for the Philadelphia Phillies
Last MLB appearance
September 28, 2011, for the New York Yankees
MLB statistics
Batting average.195
Home runs0
Runs batted in2
Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata
Teams

Gregory Joseph Golson (born September 17, 1985) is an American former professional baseball outfielder. A first round selection (21st overall) in the 2004 Major League Baseball draft by the Philadelphia Phillies, Golson played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Phillies (2008), Texas Rangers (2009), and New York Yankees (2010–2011).

Amateur career

[edit]

Golson attended John B. Connally High School in Austin, Texas. He committed to the University of Texas.[1] Baseball America ranked him as the 29th best player (and 11th best high school player) in the 2004 MLB Draft.[2] Golson was named to USA Today's All-USA High School Baseball Team alongside future MLB stars like Homer Bailey, Justin Upton, Neil Walker, and Trevor Plouffe.[3]

In 2015, Golson's former high school retired #15, his former uniform number from when he played.[4]

Professional career

[edit]

Philadelphia Phillies

[edit]

The Philadelphia Phillies selected Golson with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2004 Major League Baseball Draft.[5][6] After drafting him, the Phillies assigned Golson to their Gulf Coast League affiliate in rookie ball.[7] He hit .295 with eight doubles, five triples, and 12 stolen bases in 47 games.[8] After the season, Baseball America ranked him as the fourth-best prospect in the Phillies system.[9]

Golson's speed became a feature of his game, and went on to steal over 100 bases in five minor-league seasons.[10] In a 2008 interview, Golson said, regarding his success as a base-stealer, that "[you've] got to be real observant of what the pitcher is doing, if they fall into patterns, what the catcher is doing, the counts, the game situation—stuff like that ... but speed is the big thing".[11]

In 2007, his second minor-league season, Golson was promoted to the A-level Lakewood BlueClaws in Lakewood, New Jersey.[12] He continued to accumulate high strikeout numbers, with 106 in 375 at-bats, but he also posted a .264 average, hit 8 triples (a career-high), and stole 25 bases.[13] After the 2005 season, Golson was named the third-best prospect in the Phillies' system by Baseball America, the highest spot he would reach in those rankings.[14] He was also ranked as the 14th best prospect in the South Atlantic League.[15]

Most of the 2006 season was spent at Lakewood as well, with a late-season promotion to the Clearwater Threshers.[16] Between the two levels, Golson hit .233 and struck out 160 times. He hit 13 home runs and batted in 48 runs. Golson also accumulated 127 hits in 593 plate appearances.[10] After the season, he was rated as the Phillies' 10th best prospect by Baseball America.[14]

Strikeouts continued to plague Golson as he began the 2007 season. Between Clearwater and the Reading Phillies, Golson struck out 173 times in 607 plate appearances. He was a Florida State League All-Star that year and was promoted to Double-A in July.[17] Golson hit a combined 15 home runs in 2007, with 32 doubles and 5 triples. His .273 average and .426 slugging percentage were a large improvement over the previous year.[10] His prospect ranking dropped to seventh.[9]

Golson batting for the Reading Phillies in 2008

Golson remained at Reading for the 2008 season. He was named an Eastern League All-Star[18] and played in the All-Star Futures Game that year.[19] After hitting .282 with 13 home runs, 18 doubles, and 23 stolen bases, Golson was called up by the Phillies on September 1.[20][21] He made his debut on September 3, pinch-running for Pat Burrell.[22] He made several appearances as a late-inning defensive replacement, which was fine with Golson. "You can really impact a game, where people will remember stuff … if you make a great catch that saves the game, people remember that for a long time."[11] With the Phillies, Golson went 0-for-6 in six games, scoring two runs and stealing a base.[23] He was not included on the postseason roster that year, instead being assigned to the team's Florida complex.[24]

Texas Rangers

[edit]

On November 20, 2008, Golson was traded by the Phillies to the Texas Rangers for John Mayberry, Jr.[25] Phillies general manager Rubén Amaro, Jr. called the trade a "'speed-for-power' swap".[25] Golson spent most of the season with the Oklahoma City RedHawks in Triple-A. He was called up on May 4, got one plate appearance, and was optioned again on May 9.[26][27] In 146 plate appearances, Golson hit .289 with five doubles, three triples, six stolen bases, and 40 RBI with Oklahoma City.[28]

New York Yankees

[edit]

On January 26, 2010, Golson was traded to the New York Yankees in exchange for minor league player Mitch Hilligoss and cash, after being designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers a few days earlier.[29][30] He was called up for the first time on May 4 and got his first major league hit on May 12 against the Detroit Tigers.[31] After six appearances, he was sent back to Triple-A on May 18.[32] Golson was recalled when roster expanded on September 1.[33] Playing against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on September 14, Golson astonished players and spectators with a strong throw from right field to throw out the speedy Carl Crawford at third base for the final out of the game.[34] Golson was included on the team's postseason roster.[35]

He spent most of the 2011 season in Triple-A with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees. He was briefly called up on July 14 when Alex Rodriguez went on the disabled list.[36] Golson was again recalled when rosters expanded in September.[37] He was released on December 8.[38]

Kansas City Royals

[edit]

The Kansas City Royals signed Golson to a minor league contract on December 13, 2011.[39]

Chicago White Sox

[edit]

The Royals traded Golson to the Chicago White Sox for cash considerations on March 25, 2012.[40] Golson played in 2012 with Triple-A Charlotte, where he hit .276 with 6 HR, 52 RBI and 20 SB in 109 games.[41]

Colorado Rockies

[edit]

The Colorado Rockies signed Golson to a minor league contract on January 30, 2013.[42] Golson began 2013 with Triple-A Colorado Springs. In 55 games with the Sky Sox, Golson hit .244 with 5 HR, 22 RBI and 12 SB. He was released on July 19.[43]

Lancaster Barnstormers

[edit]

On July 27, 2013, Golson signed with the Lancaster Barnstormers of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. He homered in his first at-bat.[44]

Atlanta Braves

[edit]

On July 31, 2013, Golson joined the Atlanta Braves on a minor league contract. He was assigned to Triple-A Gwinnett.[44]

Milwaukee Brewers

[edit]

Golson signed a minor league contract with the Milwaukee Brewers in January 2014.[45] He was released in March.[46]

Lancaster Barnstormers (second stint)

[edit]

In 2014, he signed with the Lancaster Barnstormers and hit .312 with two homers and 20 RBI in 51 games. During the playoffs, he hit .273, homering twice and driving in nine runs, as the Barnstormers won the championship that year.[47]

Rojos del Aguila de Veracruz

[edit]

On April 28, 2015, Golson signed with Rojos del Aquila de Veracruz of the Mexican League for the 2015 season.[48] In 22 games he hit .278/.323/.333 with 0 home runs, 8 RBIs and 8 stolen bases.

Tigres de Quintana Roo

[edit]

On May 26, 2015, he was traded to Tigres de Quintana Roo for right fielder Ramon Ramirez.[49] In 58 games he hit .335/.416/.457 with 2 home runs, 38 RBIs and 13 stolen bases.

New Britain Bees

[edit]

On March 18, 2016, Golson returned to the Atlantic League when he signed a one-year deal with the New Britain Bees. In 96 games he hit .292/.338/.379 with 3 home runs, 38 RBIs and 18 stolen bases.

He was the team's first player with MLB experience.[50] Golson re-signed with the New Britain Bees for the 2017 season[51] but shortly after asked for his release to play in Mexico.[52]

Tigres de Quintana Roo (second stint)

[edit]

On April 10, 2017, Golson signed with the Tigres de Quintana Roo of the Mexican Baseball League. He was released on May 5, 2017.[49] In 27 games he hit .260/.351/.300 with 0 home runs, 9 RBIs and 5 stolen bases.

Somerset Patriots

[edit]

On May 26, 2017, Golson signed with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.[53] He became a free agent following the season. In 43 games he hit .255/.290/.406 with 4 home runs, 26 RBIs and 4 stolen bases.

Wichita Wingnuts

[edit]

On March 9, 2018, Golson signed with the Wichita Wingnuts of the American Association.[54]

Texas AirHogs

[edit]

He was traded to the Texas AirHogs on March 28, 2018. On October 8, Texas exercised its option to keep Golson for the 2019 season.[55] He was released on March 5, 2019.[56] In 43 games he hit .259/.318/.333 with 1 home run and 11 RBIs.

Lancaster Barnstormers (third stint)

[edit]

On May 27, 2019, Golson signed with the Lancaster Barnstormers of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.[47] In 54 games he hit .267/.309/.341 with 2 home runs, 16 RBIs and 3 stolen bases.

Golson retired following the 2019 season and later was hired by the Los Angeles Dodgers in their pro scouting department.[57]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "MLB Draft Database". Baseball America. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  2. ^ "Phils take high schooler at No. 21 ** Greg Golson, a five-tool outfileder from Austin, Texas, was rated the best high school athlete in the draft with the second-best arm". The Morning Call. June 8, 2004. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  3. ^ "USA Today High School Baseball Player of the Year | Baseball Almanac". www.baseball-almanac.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  4. ^ "Baseball Retires Golson's #15". Connally High School. February 25, 2015. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  5. ^ "2004 Philadelphia Phillies Draft Class - The Baseball Cube". TheBaseballCube.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  6. ^ "MLB 2004 Draft selections". ESPN.com. June 8, 2004. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  7. ^ "Michaels is putting his bid in for center field job ** The outfielder has raised his average to .309 in his recent starts". The Morning Call. July 1, 2004. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  8. ^ "2004 GCL Phillies Statistics". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  9. ^ a b Filoromo, Victor (January 8, 2016). "Phillies Top Prospect Lists: A Look Back". The Good Phight. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  10. ^ a b c "Greg Golson Minor League Statistics & History". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved May 30, 2009.
  11. ^ a b LeBlanc, Jay (September 7, 2008). "Welcome to the show, Greg Golson". Washington Times. Archived from the original on October 17, 2012. Retrieved May 30, 2009.
  12. ^ "From the Shore to the Show". MiLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  13. ^ "2005 Lakewood BlueClaws Statistics". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  14. ^ a b Callis, John (ed.). Baseball America 2007 Prospect Handbook. Durham, North Carolina: Baseball America Inc. pp. 334–335. ISBN 978-1-932391-14-5.
  15. ^ Simpson, Allan (ed.). Baseball America Almanac 2006. Durham, North Carolina: Baseball America Inc. p. 304. ISBN 1-932391-07-X.
  16. ^ Shenk, Larry (November 7, 2016). "Minor League Notes". Medium. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  17. ^ Lee, Demorris A (July 28, 2007). "PRIMED FOR MAJOR-LEAGUE AT-BAT". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  18. ^ HICKLING, DAN. "Eastern League All-Stars: Connecticut's Martinez is top arm". Norwich Bulletin. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  19. ^ "Baseball unveils rosters for All-Star Futures game". ESPN.com. June 27, 2008. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  20. ^ "Nationals 7-4 Phillies (Sep 1, 2008) Game Recap". ESPN. Archived from the original on February 18, 2024. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  21. ^ "2008 Reading Phillies Statistics". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  22. ^ "Nationals 9-7 Phillies (Sep 3, 2008) Box Score". ESPN. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  23. ^ "Greg Golson 2008 Batting Game Logs". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  24. ^ Lawrence, Ryan (September 29, 2008). "Collision left Victorino bruised, not broken". Delco Times. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  25. ^ a b Mandel, Ken (November 20, 2008). "Phillies deal Golson to Rangers". mlb.com. Archived from the original on November 2, 2012. Retrieved January 27, 2009.
  26. ^ "Athletics 9-4 Rangers (May 7, 2009) Box Score". ESPN. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  27. ^ "Transactions". MLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  28. ^ "2009 Oklahoma City RedHawks". Baseball-reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  29. ^ "New York Yankees acquire outfielder Greg Golson". MLB.com. January 26, 2010. Archived from the original on February 19, 2010. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  30. ^ Durrett, Richard (January 26, 2010). "Rangers get infielder Hilligoss, cash". ESPN.com.
  31. ^ "Yankees 8-0 Tigers (May 12, 2010) Game Recap". ESPN. Archived from the original on February 18, 2024. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  32. ^ "Yankees recall RHP Melancon, option OF Golson". The Columbian. May 18, 2010. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  33. ^ "Transactions". MLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  34. ^ Shpigel, Ben (September 15, 2010). "Surreal in the Moment, a Highlight Throw Will Be Hard to Forget". New York Times. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  35. ^ Hoch, Bryan (October 6, 2010). "Yankees round out roster with Golson". MLB.com. Archived from the original on November 5, 2012. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  36. ^ George A., King III (July 14, 2011). "Yankees call up Golson to replace A-Rod". New York Post. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  37. ^ Wassef, Mira (September 7, 2011). "Yankees' call-up Brackman glad he didn't give up on baseball". Times Herald-Record. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  38. ^ "Transactions". MLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  39. ^ Kagael, Dick (December 13, 2011). "Royals sign four to Minor League contracts". MLB.com. Archived from the original on August 9, 2014. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  40. ^ Kaegal (March 25, 2013). "Giavotella optioned; Getz, Yuni to share second". MLB.com. Archived from the original on August 9, 2014. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  41. ^ "2012 Charlotte Knights Statistics". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  42. ^ Renck, Troy E. (February 1, 2013). "Rockies' Jordan Pacheco working to catch on behind the plate". Denver Post. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  43. ^ Paisley, Joe (July 19, 2013). "Cook, Golson leave Sky Sox; Galarraga arrives; Francis heads to bullpen". Colorado Springs Gazette. Archived from the original on November 11, 2013.
  44. ^ a b "Atlanta Braves sign Lancaster Barnstormers outfielder Greg Golson". Lancaster Online. July 31, 2013. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  45. ^ Vaswani, Navin (January 13, 2011). "Jeff Francis, Delmon Young highlight Monday's minor-league signings". theScore. Retrieved August 8, 2014.
  46. ^ "Minor Moves: Duncan, Manzella, Russell, Rauch". MLB Trade Rumors. March 28, 2014. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  47. ^ a b "GOLSON RETURNS TO LANCASTER". lancasterstormers.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  48. ^ "Minor Moves: Teaford, Cooney, Abreu, Golson". MLB Trade Rumors. April 30, 2015. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  49. ^ a b "Greg Golson Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News". MLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  50. ^ "Bees Sign MLB Veteran Greg Golson". www.atlanticleague.com. March 18, 2016. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  51. ^ "Bees Re-Sign Outfielder Greg Golson". www.atlanticleague.com. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  52. ^ Ashmore, Mike (May 27, 2017). "Former MLB player Golson expected to fill a need for Patriots". Courier News. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  53. ^ Russinoff, Marc (March 27, 2017). "Somerset Patriots Add Former MLB Outfielder Greg Golson". Tap into Hillsborough.
  54. ^ "American Association of Professional Baseball - 2018 Transactions". American Association of Professional Baseball. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  55. ^ "American Association of Professional Baseball - 2018 Transactions". American Association of Professional Baseball. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  56. ^ "American Association of Professional Baseball - 2019 Transactions". American Association of Professional Baseball. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
  57. ^ Preciado, Daniel (February 4, 2020). "Dodgers Add Greg Golson to Pro Scouting Department". Dodgers Nation. Retrieved February 18, 2024.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Greg Golson.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Greg_Golson&oldid=1255784645"