Mitchell Lynn Garver Bio
Mitchell Lynn Garver is an American professional baseball catcher and designated hitter who is currently a free agent. He has notably played for the Minnesota Twins, Texas Rangers, and Seattle Mariners throughout his Major League Baseball (MLB) career. Garver made his MLB debut in 2017 and earned a Silver Slugger Award in 2019. In 2023, he became a World Series champion with the Rangers before signing a contract with the Mariners in December 2023.
Early Life and Background
Mitchell Lynn Garver was born on January 15, 1991, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He attended La Cueva High School in Albuquerque, where he played for the school baseball team as a catcher. In addition to baseball, Garver was also a skilled center back for the soccer team, earning recognition for his athletic abilities. In 2009, he was named the Albuquerque Public Schools Male Athlete of the Year and received all-state honors in baseball. Garver batted .521 as a senior, hitting 10 home runs and contributing to his team’s success.
Path to Baseball
After high school, Garver attended the University of New Mexico, where he walked on to the Lobos baseball team. He played summer league baseball for the St. Cloud River Bats in 2010 and 2011. In 2012, he was named co-Mountain West Conference Player of the Year and a second-team All-American by Louisville Slugger. Garver set a Lobos record by starting 181 consecutive games, showcasing his durability and talent on the field. He was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the ninth round of the 2013 MLB Draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Mitchell Lynn Garver Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Garver made his MLB debut on August 19, 2017, after being promoted to the major leagues by the Minnesota Twins. In his debut season, he played in 23 games, batting .196 with 3 RBIs. The following year, he became the Twins’ primary catcher and hit his first home run on April 5, 2018. Garver had a breakout season in 2019, hitting 31 home runs and driving in 67 runs, which earned him the Silver Slugger Award for catchers in the American League. Despite injuries limiting his playing time, he established himself as a key player for the Twins.
Breakthrough (2020–2023)
The 2020 season was challenging for Garver, as he was limited to just 23 games due to a right intercostal strain. He rebounded in 2021, hitting .256 with 13 home runs in 68 games. On March 12, 2022, Garver was traded to the Texas Rangers, where he primarily served as a designated hitter. He had a solid 2023 season, hitting .270 with 19 home runs and contributing significantly to the Rangers’ success in the playoffs. Garver played a crucial role in the team’s World Series victory, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Garver has achieved significant milestones, including being a World Series champion in 2023 and winning the Silver Slugger Award in 2019. He has consistently demonstrated his power-hitting ability and has been recognized for his contributions to his teams.
Mitchell Lynn Garver Award Nominations
Over the course of his career, Mitchell Lynn Garver has received notable nominations, including the Silver Slugger Award, which he won in 2019 for his exceptional performance as a catcher in the American League.
Mitchell Lynn Garver Awards Won
Mitchell Lynn Garver has won several prestigious awards during his career, including the Silver Slugger Award in 2019 and the World Series championship in 2023.
Mitchell Lynn Garver Family
Garver is married and has two children. He met his wife during their sophomore year of high school, and she is a veterinarian. Their first child was born on July 22, 2021, and their second child was born on December 27, 2023.
Personal Life
In addition to his family life, Garver has been involved in charitable activities. He and his wife created an endowed scholarship at Oregon State University in honor of their late dog, Benny. Garver is also known for his nickname, which inspired the release of a beer called “Garv Sauce” by OMNI Brewing while he was with the Twins in 2020.