Fred McGriff is an former professional first baseman. McGriff signed with the New York Yankees after being selected in the 9th round of the 1981 amateur draft. He received a $20,000 signing bonus.
McGriff played for six different MLB teams from 1986 through 2004. A power-hitting first baseman, he became a five-time All-Star and led both leagues in home runs in separate years – the AL in 1989 and the NL in 1992. McGriff finished his career with 493 home runs, tied with Hall of Fame player Lou Gehrig, and only seven homers away from joining the 500 home run club. He won a World Series title as a first baseman with the Atlanta Braves in 1995. McGriff is credited for hitting the first home run ever at the Sky Dome. McGriff ended his career having 10 seasons with at least 30 home runs. As of 2021, himself and Gary Sheffield are the only players ever to hit at least 30 home runs in one season for five different teams.
As of 2021, McGriff currently works in the Atlanta Braves' front office as Special Assistant to Baseball Operations. Also as of 2021, he hosts a radio show in Tampa and is an outspoken christian.
