Russ Adams

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For the former Toronto Maple Leaf centre, see Russ Adam.

**Russ Adams**
Major League Baseball debut
Toronto Blue Jays — No. 8
Shortstop
Bats: Left	Throws: Right
September 3, 2004 for the Toronto Blue Jays
Selected MLB statistics (through October 15, 2006)
Batting Average	.249
Home Runs	15
RBI	101

Russ Moore Adams (born August 30, 1980 in Laurinburg, North Carolina) played second base for the Toronto Blue Jays. He played shortstop before being optioned to the Jays' Triple-A affiliate, the Syracuse Chiefs on May 25, 2006 (along with Josh Towers). On June 12th, 2006, he was recalled by the Blue Jays after playing 17 games for Syracuse. After having trouble with the bat since his call up, and due to teammate Aaron Hill's struggles at short, he was removed as the second baseman, with Hill switching over to second and utility man John McDonald taking the shortstop role previously occupied by Hill. Adams bats left-handed and throws with his right hand. He was optioned back to Syracuse on July 30 so that he could receive more playing time.

Adams played college ball at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His strong season in 2002, when he batted .370 with 45 steals, led to the Toronto Blue Jays drafting him in the 1st round (14th overall) in the 2002 amateur entry draft. He was also regarded as a strong defensive infielder. Adams was named to the New York - Penn League all-star team in 2002 while playing for Auburn.

Adams was brought up to the major league club late in the 2004 season and had his official rookie season in 2005. He was used primarily in the lead-off position in the lineup. Adams finished the 2005 season with a .256 batting average, .325 OBP, 27 Doubles, 5 Triples, 8 Home Runs and 11 Stolen Bases. He made 26 errors in the field for the Blue Jays and was often criticized for his throwing arm. Adams finished seventh in the AL in Sacrifice Flies and tenth in the American League in At Bats per Strikeout. Adams was named to the Topps Major League Rookie All-Star Team along with teammate Gustavo Chacín [1].

Adams is often known for his close friendship with teammate and fellow infielder Aaron Hill. This closeness was the root of an elaborate practical joke orchestrated by Blue Jays starting pitchers Roy Halladay and A.J. Burnett. The two pitchers arranged a mock wedding ceremony for the two young infielders during a Spring Training game. The "wedding" was complete with catered food, presents, a videographer, and the entire team present. This prank helped to strengthen the team's closeness within the clubhouse.

Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi has stated that Adams will begin the 2007 in Triple-A, and will have to earn his way back onto the team.