Jason Bartlett
United StatesJason Bartlett is a former professional baseball player from the United States known for his role as a shortstop. Born on October 30, 1979, in Mountain View, California, Bartlett made his mark in Major League Baseball (MLB) primarily with the Minnesota Twins and the Tampa Bay Rays.
Early Life and Education
Bartlett sharpened his skills at St. Mary's High School in California, where he showcased his talent as a member of the baseball team. He further honed his game at the collegiate level while attending the University of Oklahoma.Minor League Journey
Selected by the San Diego Padres in the 13th round of the 2001 amateur draft, Bartlett began his professional journey in the minors. He played for various teams, including the Eugene Emeralds, Lake Elsinore Storm, and the Rochester Red Wings. His time in the minor leagues laid the foundation for his eventual ascent to the majors.Major League Career
Bartlett made his MLB debut on August 3, 2004, with the Minnesota Twins. Although he didn't become a regular starter until 2006, he quickly became part of a notable group of players known for their speed and strategic play, dubbed "The Piranhas." This nickname was coined by Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillén, referring to Bartlett and his teammates, including Jason Tyner, Luis Castillo, and Nick Punto.In 2007, he faced challenges, leading all major league shortstops with 26 errors. However, a significant career move occurred on November 28, 2007, when he was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays alongside Matt Garza and Eduardo Morlan in exchange for Delmon Young.