An unheralded 2010 eighth-round pick out of Arizona State, Kole Calhoun was a stocky outfielder who looked more like a specialized power-hitter than a fleet-footed defender. However, he quickly proved that he was a high-frequency engine of energy, earning the nickname "Red Baron" for his fiery red hair and a playing style that bordered on reckless abandon.
After a brief introduction to the majors, Calhoun displayed a high-caliber breakout in 2014, his first full season as a starter. He demonstrated a high-frequency ability to reach base and provide specialized pop from the leadoff spot, batting .272 with 17 home runs.
During the 2015 campaign, he authored a season in which his glove was as prominent as his bat. He demonstrated comprehensive mastery of the right-field corner, earning the 2015 American League Gold Glove Award for his specialized ability to track down fly balls and deploy a high-caliber arm. Simultaneously, he sustained offensive consistency, achieving a career-high 161 hits and 26 home runs.
Calhoun’s last season in 2019 saw him set a personal best of 33 home runs. He signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2020, leaving behind 884 hits and 140 taters as an Angel.
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