Aaron Miles

Aaron Miles never fit the prototype of a power-hitting major league infielder, and that was precisely his strength. Built like a fireplug, the switch-hitter made his living on defense and contact. He was the player managers trusted to make the routine play look easy at second base, and to spoil pitches until he could poke a single through the infield. Undrafted out of the University of Texas, his path to the majors was a testament to sheer persistence. He debuted with the White Sox in 2003, but found his most significant role with the St. Louis Cardinals from 2006 to 2007, where his steady presence helped the team to a World Series title in his first season. Miles was a journeyman in the truest sense, playing for five different clubs, always valued as a dependable utility player and positive clubhouse presence. After his playing days, he smoothly transitioned to coaching, demonstrating a deep understanding of the game’s fundamentals that he lived by on the field.