
Hall of Famer Al Kaline was drafted by the Detroit Tigers straight from high school in 1953, receiving a $15,000 signing bonus. A prolific player, he bypassed the minors and made his Major League Debut on June 25, 1953 at the age of 18. Kaline spent his entire 22-year career with the Tigers, earning the nickname “Mr. Tiger.” His achievements include 10 Gold Glove Awards, 3,007 hits, 399 home runs, 1,583 RBI, and a 1968 World Series title. He was the first Tiger to have his number retired, and a statue at Comerica Park honors his legacy.