Orlando Hudson

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**Orlando Hudson**
Major League Baseball debut
Arizona Diamondbacks — No. 1
Second Baseman
Bats: Switch	Throws: Right
August 24, 2002 for the Toronto Blue Jays
Selected MLB statistics (through 2006)
AVG	.275
RBI	268
HR	50
Former teams
Toronto Blue Jays (2002-2005) Arizona Diamondbacks (2006-present)

Orlando Thill Hudson (born December 12, 1977 in Darlington, South Carolina) is a major league second baseman for the National League's Arizona Diamondbacks. He is popularly known by his nickname "O-Dog". Hudson was drafted in the 43rd round by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 1997 MLB Draft.

Hudson is renowned around the major leagues for his fielding prowess, known for making spectacular lunging catches and diving stabs at grounders. His defensive talents were recognized in 2005, when he won his first American League Gold Glove Award while with the Toronto Blue Jays.

In 2005, he was traded to the Diamondbacks along with pitcher Miguel Batista for slugging third baseman Troy Glaus and shortstop prospect Sergio Santos.

In the 2006 season, his first with Arizona, Hudson set career-highs in batting average with a .287, in home runs with 15, in RBI with 67, and runs scored with 87.

After the 2006 season, Hudson became the recipent of his second career Gold Glove Award, as announced on November 3. Hudson became only the sixth infielder in major league history to win a Gold Glove award in both the American and National Leagues.

Hudson is a favorite of ESPN's program, Baseball Tonight, where his hustle and great defense make him loved by the analysts. He is often given the "Gem of the Night" replay, and as a Blue Jay, often made predictions with his teamates during the game which one was the "gem".

Many analysts, scouts, and fans believe Hudson will make a big run at the record set by Roberto Alomar of Gold Gloves at Second Base (10) and looks as if he'll have an excellent future with his bat.

[edit] High school career

At Darlington High School in Darlington, South Carolina, Hudson was a three sport standout in baseball, football, and basketball. In baseball, he was the Player of the Year and an All-State selection.