Michael Andrew Yastrzemski Bio
Michael Andrew Yastrzemski, nicknamed ‘Yaz’, is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Atlanta Braves of Major League Baseball (MLB). He was born on August 23, 1990, in Andover, Massachusetts, and has previously played for the San Francisco Giants and Kansas City Royals. A graduate of St. John’s Preparatory School, he played college baseball at Vanderbilt University. Yastrzemski was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 2013 and made his MLB debut in 2019. He is known not only for his on-field prowess but also as the grandson of legendary Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski.
Early Life and Background
Michael Yastrzemski grew up in Andover, Massachusetts, where he attended St. John’s Preparatory School in Danvers. He played for the school’s baseball team and was named team captain in his senior year. Yastrzemski committed to attend Vanderbilt University on a college baseball scholarship, indicating his serious dedication to the sport from a young age. In the 2009 Major League Baseball draft, he was selected by the Boston Red Sox in the 36th round but chose to pursue his college education instead of signing.
Path to Baseball
At Vanderbilt University, Yastrzemski became a starter for the Commodores in the middle of his freshman year. He played collegiate summer baseball with the Cotuit Kettleers of the Cape Cod Baseball League in 2010 and 2011. After his junior year, he was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the 30th round of the 2012 MLB draft but opted to return to Vanderbilt for his senior year. His performance earned him All-Southeastern Conference honors, showcasing his talent and potential as a future professional player. In 2013, the Baltimore Orioles selected Yastrzemski in the 14th round of the MLB draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Michael Andrew Yastrzemski Career
Early Career (2013–2018)
After being drafted, Yastrzemski began his professional journey with the Aberdeen IronBirds in the Low-A New York–Penn League, where he had a .273 batting average and was named an NY-P mid-season All-Star. He continued to impress in the minor leagues, leading the South Atlantic League with 10 triples in 2014 and earning multiple All-Star selections. Yastrzemski spent several years developing his skills in the Orioles’ minor league system, overcoming injuries and working his way up through the ranks.
Breakthrough (2019–2025)
On March 22, 2019, Yastrzemski was traded to the San Francisco Giants, where he made his MLB debut on May 25, 2019. He quickly made an impact, hitting his first career home run against the Orioles and showcasing his power with 21 home runs in his rookie season. In 2020, he led the National League in triples and received All-MLB second team honors for his outstanding performance. Yastrzemski continued to excel, hitting his 100th career home run in 2024, becoming part of a unique grandfather-grandson duo in Major League history.
Notable Works and Milestones
Michael Yastrzemski’s signature work includes his impressive rookie season with the San Francisco Giants, where he tied for the most home runs on the team. He received the Willie Mac Award for being the Giants’ most inspirational player and was recognized for his contributions to the team’s success.
Michael Andrew Yastrzemski Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Michael Yastrzemski has received nominations for various awards, highlighting his impact on the field and recognition among his peers.
Michael Andrew Yastrzemski Awards Won
Yastrzemski has achieved notable accolades, including being named the National League triples leader in 2020, showcasing his speed and agility as an outfielder.
Michael Andrew Yastrzemski Family
Michael Yastrzemski comes from a family with a rich baseball legacy. His father, Carl Yastrzemski Jr., played college baseball and was drafted by the Atlanta Braves. His grandfather, Carl Yastrzemski, is a Hall of Famer, further emphasizing the family’s connection to the sport.
Personal Life
Michael Yastrzemski is married to Paige Cahill, whom he met at Vanderbilt University. The couple married in November 2018 and has two children together. Yastrzemski’s family background and personal experiences have shaped his journey in baseball, contributing to his dedication and success in the sport.