Johnny Grubb

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John Maywood Grubb, Jr. (born August 4, 1948, in Richmond Virginia) is a former Major League Baseball outfielder, designated hitter and occasional first base man. Johnny established himself as among the top platoon players, regular starters and pinch hitters. At the three jobs, he excelled. He was released by the Detroit Tigers after the 1987 season after a disappointing season at 39 years old. Despite having arguably the best season of his career in 1986 the year before his final season. He played with the San Diego Padres (1972–1976), Cleveland Indians (1977–1978), Texas Rangers (1978–1982), and the Detroit Tigers (1983–1987).

Johnny Grubb was drafted by San Diego in 1971 as a first round pick, 24th overall. He was previously drafted by the Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and Atlanta Braves, but did not sign. In his 1973 rookie season he put up good numbers to earn himself the starting position in the outfield when he hit .311, 8 home runs, 37 RBIs, 52 runs scored, 121 hits in 389 at-bats. Johnny Grubb was a 1974 All-star member with San Diego in his sophomore season. After 1974 he would have some good years, and some pretty decent years. He didn't have many long hitting streaks, except a 21 game hitting streak in 1979.

He was also a member of the Detroit Tigers 1984 World Series Championship team where he and the Tigers defeated his former team the San Diego Padres 4 games to 1. In his 16 year career, he posted a solid .278 batting average, 99 home runs, 1153 hits, 475 RBI, and 553 runs scored in 4154 at bats. Johnny wiffed in his only all star at bat. Since retiring after the 1987 season, Grubb has kept a low profile in baseball.

Johnny Grubb has been recognized by some as the San Diego Padres' most dynamic and productive center fielder in their history. He is currently the varsity baseball coach at his alma mater, Meadowbrook High School in Richmond, Virginia. There he coached current San Diego Padre pitcher Cla Meredith.

He and his wife are very active in their church, Bethany Christian Church, (Disciples of Christ).