Marcus Thames Tigers outfielder Marcus Thames knows a little something about perseverance.The 6-foot-2, 220-pounder did not start in baseball or football at Louisville High School in Mississippi until his senior year. Then after going to junior college in Mississippi and getting drafted by the New York Yankees, he did not make it to the major leagues until seven years after his high school graduation.
Upon reaching the big leagues in 2002, Thames still only saw limited action with the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers before signing as a free agent with the Tigers in 2004. He didn’t get his first extended stay in the major leagues until 2006, when he appeared in a career-high 110 games with Detroit.
When he finally got an opportunity, though, Thames burst onto the scene with a bang.
In the Tigers’ 2006 magical season that resulted in a World Series appearance, Thames walloped 26 home runs in only 348 at-bats. And in 2007, despite playing in only 86 games, he hit 18 home runs in a mere 269 at-bats.
As the 2008 Tigers’ season started in an unbelievable funk that lasted a third of the season, Thames found himself on the outside looking in as manager Jim Leyland searched for answers elsewhere – even playing players brought up from the minor leagues ahead of Thames.
The likeable Thames never brooded or copped an attitude, however.
To the 31-year-old slugger, baseball is merely a game. In comparison, Thames’ mother, Veterine, has been paralyzed from a car accident since Thames was 5.
“Whenever I think about being down, I think of what my mother has dealt with since I was a kid,” Thames said, adding that he draws inspiration from her. “So, not playing baseball as much as I would like is no big deal. My mother has had to fight for her life and she keeps fighting. So, when I get a chance to play, I’m doing all I can to take advantage of my opportunities.”
The soft-spoken Thames has done more that take advantage of his opportunities. During a recent hot streak, he hit a home run in five consecutive games to match a franchise record. During that impressive streak, he connected for nine home runs in 14 games.
Even more incredible is that during Thames’ career in Detroit, the club has posted a 51-19 record when he homers – and that includes a 12-1 mark in 2008.
“Marcus hits them when it means something; he hits the big ones,” Leyland said. “He has really loosened everyone up with his recent tear. He has really put on a show and it has given this team a much-needed spark. There’s not a player in the American League that has more raw power.”
Added veteran relief pitcher Todd Jones: “I don’t think I have ever seen a player get on a streak like this and I have played with Hall-of-Famers, MVP’s and All-Stars. I’ve played with some special players and his power stroke is as good as I’ve seen.”
Thames said he isn’t doing anything special at the plate. He hasn’t changed his habits, nor is he in the so-called zone.
“I’m going out there and doing the best I can do, trying to play baseball and help my team win some games,” he explained. “Basically, it comes down to me getting more at-bats and being patient at the plate and not chasing balls.
“The plate does not look bigger and the ball smaller. I always knew if I got a chance to play, sooner or later, I could put up some numbers.”
At one point in the season, the Tigers were 11 games behind the A.L. Central Division-leading Chicago White Sox, but with their recent turnaround, they have cut the White Sox lead to five games (as of June 30).
The linchpin for the recent Tigers’ surge?
Thames, who leads the team in home runs with 15.
Of course, none of Thames’ teammates are surprised by his recent power display.
“He’ been hitting the ball with power since I’ve known him,” catcher-third baseman Brandon Inge said. “I’m not surprised how he’s been able to carry this team.”
Added third baseman Carlos Guillen: “Everyone knows Marcus is a great power hitter. He’s been big for us.”
Slugger Gary Sheffield said he knew Thames had the ability to be a special power hitter as soon as he saw him play.
“Some want to label him as just a utility player, but Marcus can play the field,” Sheffield said. “All he needs is consistent opportunity.”
Thames acknowledged that he was a little frustrated when he didn’t play as much in 2007 after putting up huge numbers in the breakout 2006 season. But he was quick to add that it did not change his attitude or approach to the game.
“Any player in the major leagues should feel like they have the ability to play everyday,” he said.
Some have questioned Thames’ defense in the field, but the outfielder said he has always been a solid fielder and he does not know why he has been labeled a defensive liability.
Despite the label, Thames said he works extra hard with Tigers coach Andy Van Slyke to improve his fielding even more.
Such action is part of his makeup of being a hard worker with a positive attitude.
“Marcus is one of the most real guys you’ll ever meet,” center fielder Curtis Granderson said. “You always know where you stand with him, because his personality is always consistent.”
