Rick Ankiel’s journey with the St. Louis Cardinals is one of the most unusual and captivating stories in baseball. He was the first player since Babe Ruth to both win 10 games as a pitcher and hit 70 home runs as a position player. This remarkable feat showcases his unique talent and adaptability, making his career a topic of fascination for both baseball fans and casual observers.
Drafted by the Cardinals in the second round of the 1997 MLB June Amateur Draft, Ankiel made his major league debut on August 23, 1999, at just 20 years old.
His early years were marked by both promise and challenges, particularly his well-documented control issues as a pitcher. Yet Ankiel’s resilience and determination allowed him to transition to an outfielder role, where he continued to make significant contributions to the team.
Despite the ups and downs, Ankiel’s legacy with the St. Louis Cardinals remains impactful. His ability to overcome obstacles and succeed in two different positions on the field is a testament to his skill and tenacity. For fans of the sport, Ankiel’s story is not just about baseball; it’s about perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Learn more about his fascinating career and statistics from Baseball-Reference and Baseball Almanac.
Who Is Rick Ankiel?
Rick Ankiel, born Richard Alexander Ankiel on July 19, 1979, is a former American professional baseball player and current baseball announcer at a major network. He is well-known for his unique career, transitioning from a pitcher to an outfielder in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Where Did Rick Ankiel Grow Up?
Rick Ankiel grew up in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he attended Port St. Lucie High School. During his high school years, he was a standout baseball player.
In his senior season, he achieved an impressive 11-1 record and posted a 0.47 ERA. He struck out 162 batters in just 74 innings, making him one of the top prospects in the nation. Due to his exceptional performance, he was named the High School Player of the Year by USA Today.
Where Does Rick Ankiel Live?
As of now, Rick Ankiel resides in Florida, where he enjoys a quieter lifestyle away from the limelight. Although specific details about his current residence are not widely publicized, it is known that he values privacy.
Living in Florida allows him to stay connected with his roots and maintain a close bond with family and friends.
Who Is Rick Ankiel Married To?
Rick Ankiel is married to Lory Ankiel. The couple has been together for several years and shares a strong relationship. They have two sons together, providing Rick with a balance between his professional and personal life.
Lory has been a supportive partner throughout Rick’s career transitions, standing by him during his time as a player and now as a baseball announcer.
Rick Ankiel Baseball Career
Rick Ankiel’s baseball career is remarkable and diverse. He notably transitioned from a successful pitcher to a position player in the outfield, facing numerous challenges along the way.
Where Did Rick Ankiel Play College Baseball?
Rick Ankiel did not play college baseball. He was drafted right out of high school. In 1997, the St. Louis Cardinals selected him in the second round of the MLB Draft from Port St. Lucie High School in Florida.
His high school career was impressive, boasting an 11-1 record with a 0.47 ERA in his senior year. He was also named High School Player of the Year by USA Today.
Did Rick Ankiel Play In The MLB?
Yes, Rick Ankiel played in the MLB for multiple teams. He started his career as a pitcher with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1999.
Ankiel experienced early success but developed control problems, often referred to as the yips. Despite this setback, he reinvented himself as an outfielder. Over his career, he played for the Cardinals, Washington Nationals, Kansas City Royals, Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets.
He hit 76 home runs and had a .240 batting average in his MLB career.
Did Rick Ankiel Coach College Baseball?
Rick Ankiel did not coach college baseball. His career post-retirement has not included coaching at the college level. Instead, he has focused on other ventures, including writing a book about his experiences and working as a broadcaster.
His story remains inspirational for many young athletes, illustrating resilience and adaptability.
Did Rick Ankiel Coach In The MLB?
Rick Ankiel has not coached in the MLB either. While he has been involved in baseball as a commentator and analyst, he has not taken on a coaching role in the major leagues.
His insights into the game continue to influence and engage fans, reflecting his deep understanding and passion for baseball.
Rick Ankiel Professional Broadcasting Career
Rick Ankiel transitioned from being a professional baseball player to a career in broadcasting. His expertise and firsthand experience make his broadcasts especially insightful and engaging for viewers.
What Network Has Rick Ankiel Previously Worked For?
Rick Ankiel has previously worked for Fox Sports Midwest. He used his knowledge as a former MLB player to provide in-depth analysis and commentary.
His insights were focused mainly on the St. Louis Cardinals, his former team. Ankiel’s ability to break down plays and offer player perspectives made him a valuable asset. Viewers appreciated his straightforward style and the credibility he brought to discussions.
Working with Fox Sports Midwest let him share nuanced opinions based on his career experiences.
What Network Is Rick Ankiel Currently Working For?
Rick Ankiel is currently working for ESPN. This network is one of the largest and most reputable sports broadcasters in the world.
At ESPN, Ankiel covers a variety of baseball games and events, offering expert analysis and commentary. His transition to a national platform allows him to reach a broader audience.
On ESPN, he has the chance to discuss all teams in Major League Baseball, not just the St. Louis Cardinals. This role has expanded his influence and showcased his comprehensive knowledge of the sport.
Who Is Rick Ankiel Broadcast Partner?
Rick Ankiel’s broadcast partner is frequently Dan Shulman. Dan Shulman is an experienced sportscaster with a long history in baseball broadcasting.
Together, Ankiel and Shulman make a dynamic team. Shulman’s play-by-play expertise complements Ankiel’s analytical depth. This partnership enhances the viewing experience, providing audiences with clear play descriptions and insightful analysis.
Their collaborative efforts bring a balanced and informed perspective to the games they cover.
Does Rick Ankiel Want To Cover The MLB?
Rick Ankiel has expressed a strong interest in continuing to cover Major League Baseball. His passion for the game remains evident in his work.
Ankiel enjoys breaking down games and sharing his insights with fans. This desire is evident in his thorough and engaging analysis.
Covering MLB allows him to stay connected to the sport he loves and share his extensive knowledge with others. Ankiel’s enthusiasm for MLB makes him a dedicated and effective broadcaster.
What Are Rick Ankiel Future Prospects?
Rick Ankiel’s future prospects in broadcasting appear bright. His expertise and popularity suggest he will continue to grow in this field.
Ankiel has the potential to take on more prominent roles within ESPN or other major networks. Additionally, he may be sought after for guest appearances on various sports shows. Given his background and skills, Ankiel might also explore opportunities in sports journalism or authoring more books. His future in broadcasting is ripe with possibilities.
Rick Ankiel Major Achievements And Awards
Rick Ankiel has received recognition for his broadcasting efforts. Though his primary awards are from his playing career, his transition to broadcasting has been well-received.
As a player, he was awarded the USA Today Minor League Player of the Year and was a finalist for the National League Rookie of the Year. His book, The Phenomenon: Pressure, the Yips, and the Pitch that Changed My Life, has also attracted positive attention.
His ability to succeed in multiple roles within baseball showcases his versatility and talent.
Similar Announcers To Rick Ankiel
Similar announcers to Rick Ankiel include John Smoltz and Alex Rodriguez. These former players, like Ankiel, have made seamless transitions to broadcasting.
John Smoltz, a former pitcher, provides in-depth game analysis and utilizes his pitching experience to explain complex plays. Alex Rodriguez, a former infielder, offers broad game insights and player evaluations.
Both Smoltz and Rodriguez bring a mix of professional playing experience and broadcasting skills to their roles, similar to Ankiel’s approach.
Does Rick Ankiel Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Yes, Rick Ankiel does participate in private speaking engagements. He often talks about his career, the pressures of professional sports, and overcoming adversity.
His experiences, particularly with “the yips,” provide valuable lessons on perseverance and mental strength. Ankiel’s storytelling abilities make him a sought-after speaker for sports events and corporate functions. His speeches are insightful and motivational, resonating with various audiences beyond just baseball fans.
Does Rick Ankiel Have A Podcast?
No, Rick Ankiel does not currently have a podcast. While he is an active broadcaster, he has not ventured into podcasting.
Fans looking for his insights must tune into his ESPN broadcasts or read his book. However, given his communication skills and vast knowledge, a podcast could be a potential avenue for future projects. Ankiel’s fans would likely appreciate more content from him in this format.
What Is Rick Ankiel Net Worth?
Rick Ankiel, a former MLB player turned announcer, has built a substantial net worth through his successful career in baseball and subsequent ventures. The details below explore his contract values and annual salary.
How Much Is Rick Ankiel’s Contract For?
Rick Ankiel’s contracts throughout his career have varied. His most notable contract was with the St. Louis Cardinals. Ankiel signed with the Cardinals in the 2nd round of the 1997 MLB Draft. The value of this contract started his career on a strong financial footing.
He also signed significant contracts with other teams like the Kansas City Royals and Atlanta Braves.
In 2008, Ankiel re-signed with the Cardinals for a one-year deal worth approximately $900,000. He later signed a $3.25 million contract with the Kansas City Royals in 2010, underlining his value as a player. Such contracts contributed significantly to his overall earnings.
How Much Does Rick Ankiel Make In Salary Per Year?
Rick Ankiel’s salary during his playing days varied based on performance and team contracts. At his peak, Ankiel earned around $3.25 million annually with the Kansas City Royals. This salary placed him among the higher earners in MLB for the years he played.
After his career on the field, Ankiel transitioned to being an announcer, which also adds to his income, though specific figures for his announcing salary are not widely disclosed. This role ensures he remains a respected figure in baseball while continuing to earn a substantial income.
Rick Ankiel’s impressive earnings from both playing and announcing have significantly contributed to his net worth, making him a notable figure in the sports industry.