Date of Birth: February 9, 1961
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Biography
John Martin Kruk is a retired American professional baseball player and sports analyst. Born on February 9, 1961, in Charleston, West Virginia, Kruk played in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a first baseman and outfielder. He is best known for his time with the San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, and Chicago White Sox. Kruk’s career began when he was drafted by the Padres in the third round of the 1981 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut in 1986 with the Padres and quickly became known for his hitting prowess and charismatic personality. Kruk’s most notable years came with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he played from 1989 to 1994. During this period, he became a key player and fan favorite, contributing significantly to the team’s success, including their 1993 National League pennant win. After retiring from baseball in 1995, Kruk transitioned to a career in broadcasting, providing commentary for ESPN and later for NBC Sports Philadelphia.
5 Interesting Facts about John Kruk
1. John Kruk was a three-time MLB All-Star, earning selections in 1991, 1992, and 1993.
2. He was a career .300 hitter, ending his MLB career with a batting average of .300.
3. Kruk famously hit a home run in his final at-bat before retiring from professional baseball.
4. He has been a prominent figure in baseball broadcasting, known for his insightful and often humorous commentary.
5. John Kruk wrote an autobiography titled “I Ain’t an Athlete, Lady,” which provides an in-depth look at his career and life.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Kruk
1. “I’m not an athlete, I’m a baseball player.”
2. “The only thing I can do is play baseball. I have to play baseball. It’s the only way I’m going to get to eat.”
3. “I ain’t an athlete, lady. I’m a baseball player.”
4. “I’d rather be a good person off the field than a good baseball player on the field.”
5. “I always enjoyed the game, but when my body and mind said it was time, it was time.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, John Kruk’s net worth was estimated to be around $4 million.
Children
John Kruk has two children: a daughter named Keira Kruk and a son named Kyle Kruk.
Relevant Links
1. [John Kruk’s Baseball Reference Page](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/krukjo01.shtml
2. [John Kruk on ESPN](https://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/2358/john-kruk
4. [John Kruk’s Career Highlights](https://www.mlb.com/news/john-kruk-s-career-highlights
5. [John Kruk on NBC Sports Philadelphia](https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/author/john-kruk