Ivan Rodriguez Gold Gloves

Lore & Background

Rodríguez won the American League MVP in 1999, the 2003 World Series with the Florida Marlins, and played in the 2006 World Series with the Tigers. He set an MLB record for most games caught (2,427) when he caught his 2,227th game in 2009, passing Carlton Fisk (2,226). He holds the best career caught-stealing percentage (45.68%) and had nine seasons with a caught-stealing rate of 50% or higher. He recorded 2,844 hits, the most of any catcher in MLB history. In October 2024, he was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame.

In Their Own Story

The lights hummed above the stadium as Ivan Rodriguez crouched in his stance, mask pulled down tight against the night air. The pitcher nodded toward him, seeking a signal amidst the roar of the crowd. A runner on first took a lead; Pudge's eyes darted instantly to the bag before returning to the incoming ball. With a sharp snap of his wrist and a thunderous throw, he froze the runner in mid-stride. The umpire signaled out, but Rodriguez barely moved, already preparing for the next pitch, embodying the calm authority that had earned him thirteen Gold Gloves.

Reader's Guide

Rodríguez made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers on June 20, 1991, at age 19. He played for the Rangers from 1991 to 2002, then later returned for a second stint. He also played for the Florida Marlins, Detroit Tigers, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Washington Nationals. His number 7 was retired by the Rangers and displayed at Globe Life Park before being moved to Globe Life Field.

Did You Know?

• Rodríguez won 10 consecutive Gold Gloves with the Rangers from 1992 to 2001.
• He holds the record for most games caught (2,427), with Carlton Fisk second (2,226).
• At age 8, he moved from pitcher and third baseman to catcher because his father thought he threw too hard.
• His favorite player growing up was Johnny Bench.