MLB Athlete Number 31 - Mike Piazza

This one was a tough decision. Two players could be considered for the best MLB athlete to ever wear the number 31. If you are going by the best all-around athlete, I'd give it to Dave Winfield. (He was, after all, drafted by four professional sports teams). However, for the best MLB athlete, going by the best statistics and impact on the game of baseball on the field, I give it to Mike Piazza.

Mike Piazza is often considered the best hitting catcher ever in major league baseball. Piazza's career batting average was .308. His best years, by batting average, are as follows:

• .362 in 1997
• .348 in 1998
• .346 in 1995
• .336 in 1996
• .324 in 2000

As you probably know, Piazza also had quite a bit of power, in addition to being able to hit for average. He had 427 career home runs, and twice reached 40 single season homers (1997 and 1999).

Did you know.......Mike Piazza was the 1,390th pick in the 1988 MLB amateur draft?