James Outman Bio
James Matthew Outman (born May 14, 1997) is an American professional baseball center fielder for the Minnesota Twins of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He made his MLB debut in 2022. Outman is recognized for his powerful hitting and versatility on the field, making significant contributions to his teams since entering the league.
Early Life and Background
James Matthew Outman was born on May 14, 1997, in Redwood City, California. He attended Junípero Serra High School in San Mateo, California, where he excelled in baseball and football. In high school, he achieved a batting average of .305 with a .508 slugging percentage and a .962 fielding percentage. Outman was also a linebacker and tight end for the football team, showcasing his athletic versatility. Growing up, he was a fan of the San Francisco Giants, which fueled his passion for baseball.
Path to Baseball
After high school, Outman continued his baseball career at California State University, Sacramento, where he played for the Sacramento State Hornets. Over three seasons, he played in 147 games, hitting .249 with 23 home runs and 99 runs batted in (RBIs). His college career included stints with the Humboldt Crabs in 2016 and the Bethesda Big Train in 2017, where he was named Team MVP and the League Offensive Player of the Year. Outman’s performance in college and summer leagues helped him gain recognition among scouts.
James Outman Career
Early Career (2018–2021)
James Outman was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the seventh round of the 2018 MLB Draft. He began his professional career with the Ogden Raptors in 2018 and later played for the Great Lakes Loons in 2019. After missing the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to the Loons in 2021, where he hit .250 with nine home runs and 30 RBIs. His performance earned him a promotion to the Double-A Tulsa Drillers, where he continued to impress, hitting .289 with nine homers and 24 RBIs in just 39 games.
Breakthrough (2022–2023)
Outman made his Major League Baseball debut on July 31, 2022, after being called up to the Dodgers. He started as the right fielder in his debut game against the Colorado Rockies, where he hit a home run in his first at-bat, making an immediate impact. In his first two games, he became the first Dodgers player since Casey Stengel in 1912 to reach base seven or more times. In total, he appeared in four games in 2022, recording six hits in 13 at-bats, including two doubles and one home run.
Notable Works and Milestones
In 2023, Outman secured a spot on the Dodgers’ opening day roster as the starting center fielder. He had a notable performance against the Chicago Cubs, hitting two home runs, including a grand slam. Throughout the season, he played in 151 games, batting .248 with 23 home runs and 70 RBIs. Despite facing challenges at the plate, Outman’s ability to hit for power and drive in runs showcased his potential as a key player for the Dodgers.
James Outman Award Nominations
Throughout his career, James Outman has received recognition for his performances, including being named the National League Rookie of the Month for April 2023.
James Outman Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed, Outman’s achievements in college and professional baseball, including his selection as Team MVP and League Offensive Player of the Year, highlight his talent and contributions to the sport.
James Outman Family
Information regarding James Outman’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about James Outman’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed. His focus remains on his professional baseball career, and he continues to develop as a player in Major League Baseball.