MLBbro Michael Brantley: Return Of “The Professional”, Season 14

Houston Astros outfielder Michael Brantley is the true definition of a hard worker. And that is why he continues to be a success on the field in his 14th season. The five-time All-Star is in his fourth season with the Astros and has quickly become a fan favorite.

The 34-year-old looks to be in good physical condition and has not lost a step out there. Through seven games this season, he’s hitting just .241 with two RBI and two runs scored, but his track record indicates that he’s sure to pick it up. 

Last season, Brantley had one of the best seasons of his career as he helped the Astros to a World Series appearance. He finished the 2021 regular season with a .311 batting average with eight home runs and 47 RBI. During the postseason, he posted a .319 batting average with nine RBI. Brantley will look to continue to have that success at the plate this season.

 

 

 

 

This man is well respected amongst his teammates and opponents. In an article from the Houston Chronicle, Brantley’s teammates talked about the type of player he is and how he continues to impact the game.

“Professional is something that I think maybe gets thrown around a little bit haphazardly in this business, and while we’re all professionals, I think Mike epitomizes what being a professional baseball player is all about,” catcher Jason Castro said.

“I always knew he was a very good hitter just from playing against him. But when you see the way he goes about his work and he’s very methodical about everything he’s doing and trying to feel on a daily basis, it’s probably one of the most impressive things I’ve seen.”

Watching Brantley hit is a sight to see and the way he’s able to make adjustments at the plate is remarkable.

 

 

 

 

“Facing him, I hated it. Love/hate. You know you’re always going to get an unbelievably professional at-bat, and that is the best compliment I can give. He knows what he’s doing, I know what I’m doing, and it’s going to be a battle. He never gives in. It’s a lot of fun but frustrating as hell. Over the years, I loved to hate him,” Justin Verlander said.

“Being his teammate, I think he’s remarkably even-keeled and does a great job of helping those around him be even-keeled. Which seems easy. But in this game, it’s one of the most difficult things you could do, especially as a hitter, because it’s so hard to be successful. It’s a game of failure for them. He’s imparted some of that in me as well, just whether it’s through the way you think about things or your routine or the attention to detail. All of those little things matter, and he does and teaches all of those things extremely well.”

The Astros have a special and talented player in Brantley. Having the .298 career hitter in the middle of the Astros order makes them one of the more offensively-efficient teams in baseball. The Professional continues to show why he’s one of the best hitters in the game today.