B.J. Upton

Guide Note:

Major League baseball player B.J. Upton is the centerfielder for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

Fast Facts:

1. Born: August 21, 1984
2. Full name: Melvin Emanuel Upton
3. Meaning of nickname "B.J.": "Bossman Junior"
4. Bats/Throws: Right
5. Drafted in 2002
6. Debuted in 2004
7. Excellent speed, power; hits for average as well
8. Brother, Justin plays for Arizona Diamondbacks

A highly touted prospect, Upton was drafted second overall in the 2002 draft and made his debut with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2004, becoming the youngest player in baseball at 19. Upton had to wait until 2007 to play his first full season, and he lived up to his hype, clubbing 24 home runs and 82 RBIs, and hitting exactly .300 in 129 games.

Upton possesses excellent speed, stealing 22 bases in 2007, and hits for power. He is also an excellent clutch hitter. His weaknesses are that he is considered below average defensively, and has been tried at various positions, including third base, shortstop, and centerfield.

B.J.'s brother, Justin Upton, was chosen first in the 2005 draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, making the brothers the most highly drafted siblings in baseball history. Upton made his debut for the Diamondbacks in 2008.