Amir Garrett, a name synonymous with fiery competitiveness and athletic versatility, has carved a unique path in Major League Baseball (MLB). From his days as a two-sport athlete to his role as a left-handed relief pitcher, Garrett’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and passion for the game. 

This article delves into his career trajectory, recent developments, performance statistics, controversies, injuries, and the buzz surrounding him on platforms like YouTube, where fans seek insights into his journey.

Early Life and Dual-Sport Beginnings

Born on May 3, 1992, in Victorville, California, Amir Garrett grew up with a natural aptitude for athletics. His early years were marked by a dual passion for basketball and baseball, a rare combination that set him apart. As a high school standout at Findlay Prep in Henderson, Nevada, Garrett was a top basketball recruit, earning accolades for his skills on the court. He committed to St. John’s University to play basketball, showcasing his potential as a 6’6” forward with a knack for rebounding and defense.

However, baseball was never far from his mind. Despite focusing primarily on basketball during his senior year of high school, Garrett’s raw talent on the mound caught the attention of MLB scouts. His 95 mph fastball and extreme athleticism, displayed during showcase appearances, intrigued teams. 

In 2011, the Cincinnati Reds selected him in the 22nd round of the MLB Draft, offering a $1 million signing bonus to lure him away from a full-time basketball career. Garrett chose to pursue both sports initially, balancing college basketball at Cal State Northridge (after two years at St. John’s) with minor-league baseball during the offseason.

Transition to Baseball

Garrett’s decision to focus solely on baseball came as he recognized his potential to excel at the professional level. His athleticism, long-limbed frame, and powerful left arm made him a promising pitching prospect. The Reds saw him as a potential mid-rotation starter, with the possibility of transitioning to a relief role if his command needed refinement. This versatility would define much of his professional career.

MLB Career: Rise with the Cincinnati Reds

Garrett made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 2017, a significant milestone after years of honing his craft in the minors. His rookie season showed flashes of brilliance, with a 7.39 ERA over 70.2 innings in 16 appearances (14 starts). While his ERA was high, his ability to generate strikeouts (63 in 2017) and his electric fastball-slider combination hinted at his potential as a reliever.

Over the next few years, Garrett transitioned fully to the bullpen, where his high-energy style and competitive fire shone. From 2017 to 2021, he appeared in 243 games for the Reds, posting a 4.74 ERA with 305 strikeouts in 252.1 innings. His role as a left-handed reliever was crucial, often tasked with facing tough lefty hitters in high-leverage situations. His signature slider, paired with a mid-90s fastball, made him a formidable presence when on his game.

Trade to the Kansas City Royals

In March 2022, the Reds traded Garrett to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for pitcher Mike Minor and cash considerations. The move marked a new chapter for Garrett, who joined a Royals bullpen in need of left-handed depth. His 2022 season was solid, with a 4.96 ERA over 45.2 innings and 49 strikeouts in 60 appearances. Garrett’s ability to escape jams, as highlighted in an April 2022 game against the Minnesota Twins where he threw 13 pitches to retire Ryan Jeffers in a six-minute at-bat, showcased his grit and determination.

In 2023, Garrett continued with the Royals, posting a 3.33 ERA in 27 appearances before landing on the injured list with a left elbow valgus extension overload, a condition that sidelined him from late May to early July. Upon his return, he maintained a 3.00 ERA through 21 innings, showing his value in middle-relief roles.

Recent Developments: A New Chapter with the Blue Jays

Minor-League Deal with the Angels (2024) Garrett’s 2024 season was a challenging one. He signed a minor-league contract with the Los Angeles Angels, hoping to secure a spot in their bullpen. However, his performance at Triple-A Salt Lake was underwhelming, with a 5.08 ERA over an unspecified number of innings. He made just six appearances in the majors with the Angels, struggling to regain his form.

The Angels selected him from Triple-A in May 2024, but his stint was brief, and he was released later that year. Prior to that, Garrett had a short-lived tenure with the San Francisco Giants, signing a minor-league deal in early 2024. His spring training performance was lackluster, allowing nine earned runs in 6.1 innings with a 3:7 K:BB ratio, leading to his release in March 2024.

Signing with the Toronto Blue Jays (2025)

In February 2025, Garrett signed another minor-league contract, this time with the Toronto Blue Jays. The deal, reported by Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, offers Garrett a chance to compete for a roster spot during spring training. At 33 years old (as of May 3, 2025), Garrett faces an uphill battle to make the Opening Day roster, with Triple-A Buffalo as a likely starting point if he doesn’t impress in camp.

Garrett expressed his desire for a return to Cincinnati via a post on X in February 2025, responding to a fan’s suggestion with, “I would love that. All I need is an invite. I’ll take care of the rest.” However, with the Reds bolstering their bullpen with other additions, a reunion seems unlikely.

Controversies: The Fiery Side of Amir Garrett

The Infamous Reds-Pirates Brawl (2019) One of the defining moments of Garrett’s career came on July 30, 2019, during a game between the Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates. In the ninth inning, with tensions already high, Garrett took exception to a comment from the Pirates’ dugout. 

In a moment that became an iconic MLB meme, he charged the dugout, throwing punches, including one at pitcher Trevor Williams, sparking a massive bench-clearing brawl. The incident, one of the wildest in recent Reds history, led to ejections, including that of Yasiel Puig in his final game as a Red.

Garrett later expressed remorse, acknowledging the impact on young fans. “It won’t happen again,” he told MLB.com. “We’re athletes and kids are very impressionable. We want to set a good example for them.” His apology highlighted his awareness of his role as a public figure, despite his competitive intensity.

Drink-Throwing Incident (2022)

In August 2022, while with the Royals, Garrett faced a three-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for throwing a drink at a spectator during a game against the Chicago White Sox. The incident occurred on August 2 at Guaranteed Rate Field, prompting Garrett to issue an apology on X: “My actions were uncalled for.” The suspension underscored the challenges of managing his fiery temperament, a trait that fuels his competitiveness but occasionally leads to controversy.

Puking on the Mound (2023)

Garrett made headlines again in May 2023 after an unusual incident during a Royals game against the White Sox. After striking out Elvis Andrus, Garrett vomited on the mound, an event that resurfaced the 2019 Reds-Pirates brawl meme among fans. While not a controversy in the traditional sense, the moment added to Garrett’s reputation as a player who wears his emotions and physical reactions on his sleeve.

FAQs

What is Amir Garrett’s MLB career history?

Garrett made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds on April 7, 2017. Over the years, he has also played for the Kansas City Royals and the Los Angeles Angels. In 2025, he signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays and was assigned to their Triple-A affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons. As of now, he is on the 60-day injured list.

What is Amir Garrett’s pitching style?

Garrett is known for his high-velocity fastball and slider combination. His fastball can reach the mid-90s mph, and he uses his slider to generate swings and misses. He is also recognized for his intense demeanor on the mound, often displaying a fiery competitive spirit.

Has Amir Garrett been involved in any notable incidents?

Yes, Garrett has been involved in a few notable incidents during his career. In 2021, while with the Kansas City Royals, he was suspended for three games and fined for throwing a drink at a spectator in the stands during a game against the Chicago White Sox. 

What is Amir Garrett’s current status with the Blue Jays?

Garrett is currently on the 60-day injured list with the Toronto Blue Jays. He signed a minor league contract with the team in February 2025 and was assigned to the Buffalo Bisons. As of now, there are no updates on his return to the major league roster. 

What are Amir Garrett’s future prospects in MLB?

Garrett’s future in MLB will depend on his recovery from injury and performance in the minor leagues. If he can return to form, he may have an opportunity to rejoin the major league roster. His experience and competitive nature make him a valuable asset to any bullpen.

In Summary

Amir Garrett’s journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to resilience, intensity, and raw athleticism. From a two-sport collegiate athlete to a seasoned MLB reliever, he has showcased not only physical talent but a fierce competitive spirit that’s made him a memorable figure on the mound. 

Now with the Toronto Blue Jays organization and recovering from injury, Garrett is aiming to reignite his career and make another impact at the highest level. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if his next chapter includes a return to MLB dominance. Whether it’s his signature strikeouts or passionate presence, Amir Garrett remains a pitcher to keep an eye on in 2025 and beyond. 

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