Johnny Damon: MLB Leadoff Icon and Champion

 Johnny Damon: MLB Leadoff Icon and Champion

Johnny Damon, born November 5, 1973, in Fort Riley, Kansas, emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s most dynamic leadoff hitters and a two-time World Series champion. Known for his speed, durability, and charisma, Damon enjoyed an 18-year MLB career and left a lasting legacy on and off the field.

Early Promise and Breakout in Kansas City

A standout at Dr. Phillips High School in Orlando, Florida, Damon was named the top high school prospect by Baseball America, a USA Today High School All-America team member, and Florida’s Gatorade Player of the Year . Drafted 35th overall by the Kansas City Royals in 1992, he debuted in MLB in 1995 .

By 2000, Damon had become one of the league’s premier leadoff men, batting .327 that year, leading the American League with 136 runs and 46 stolen bases .

Boston: Breaking the “Curse of the Bambino”

In December 2001, Damon signed a four-year, $31 million contract with the Boston Red Sox . During his tenure, he led the league in triples (11) in 2002, and achieved a remarkable game in 2003 by recording three hits in a single inning—only the second player to do so since 1900 .

His crowning moment came in Game 7 of the 2004 ALCS—a grand slam followed by six RBIs—to complete the Red Sox’s historic comeback and carry them into a World Series win, ending an 86-year championship drought .

Yankees and Beyond

Damon joined the New York Yankees in 2006, signing a four-year, $52 million deal . His postseason heroics continued, including a key two-run double in Game 7 of the 2009 ALCS that helped lead the Yankees to their own World Series title .

Career Highlights & Legacy

Over 2,490 regular-season games, Johnny Damon compiled:

.284 batting average

2,769 hits

235 home runs

1,139 RBIs

408 stolen bases .

He remains ranked among MLB’s all-time leaders for hits, RBIs, and steals—and was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2025 .

Personality, Community & Cultural Impact

Damon’s long hair, beard, and energetic style made him an instant fan favorite. He enlivened the Yankees clubhouse with charisma and leadership, inspiring teammates and connecting deeply with fans . Off the field, Damon founded the Johnny Damon Foundation and supported organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children .

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Quick Links

Learn more about his [early years and minor league development on SABR](https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/johnny-damon/)

Explore a detailed [career timeline at Baseball-Reference](https://www.baseball-reference.com/)

See his [Missouri Sports Hall of Fame induction](https://mosportshalloffame.com/inductees/johnny-damon/)

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