Early Life and Background
Brandon Laird was born on September 11, 1987, in Cypress, California. He hails from a family with a strong background in sports, as his father, Gerald Laird Jr., was also a professional baseball player. Laird grew up surrounded by the game and developed a passion for baseball at a young age.
Professional Career
Laird began his professional baseball career in 2007 when he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 27th round of the MLB Draft. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Yankees’ minor league system, showcasing his power hitting and defensive skills along the way.
In 2011, Laird made his MLB debut with the Yankees, appearing in 11 games and hitting his first career home run. He continued to impress with his performance on both offense and defense, solidifying his place in the major leagues.
Transition to Japan
After spending several seasons in the minor leagues and bouncing around various MLB teams, Laird made the decision to take his talents overseas to Japan. In 2015, he signed with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
During his time in Japan, Laird continued to excel, earning accolades for his offensive production and defensive prowess. He became a fan favorite and a key player for the Fighters, helping lead them to success on the field.
Family Life
Off the field, Laird is a devoted husband to his wife Lana Victoria Laird and a loving father to their son Sebastian Kai Laird. The Laird family enjoys spending quality time together and supporting each other in their respective endeavors.
Supportive Parents
Laird credits much of his success to his parents, Victoria Holguín and Gerald Laird Jr., who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for the game of baseball. They have been unwavering in their support of Laird throughout his career.
Awards and Achievements
Throughout his career, Laird has received numerous accolades for his performance on the field. He has been named an All-Star multiple times and has won awards for his offensive production and defensive skills.
2012 Season
In 2012, Laird had a standout season with the Fighters, hitting .280 with 32 home runs and 98 RBIs. He was named an All-Star and received recognition for his contributions to the team’s success.
Return to the United States
After several successful seasons in Japan, Laird made the decision to return to the United States to continue his baseball career. In 2019, he signed with the Detroit Tigers organization and has since been working towards making an impact in the MLB once again.
Current Status
As of 2021, Laird continues to pursue his passion for baseball and is focused on making an impact at the highest level of the sport. He remains dedicated to improving his skills and helping his team succeed on the field.
Personal Traits
Laird is known for his strong work ethic, determination, and leadership qualities both on and off the field. He is respected by teammates and coaches alike for his professionalism and commitment to excellence.
Mentorship Role
Laird takes pride in mentoring younger players and sharing his knowledge and experience with them. He believes in paying it forward and helping others succeed in their own careers.
Future Prospects
As Laird continues to hone his skills and make an impact in baseball, many are optimistic about what lies ahead for him. With his talent, dedication, and experience, he has the potential to achieve even greater success in the years to come.
Fan Support
Laird has garnered a loyal following of fans who admire his talent and appreciate his contributions to the sport. They continue to cheer him on as he pursues his dreams on the baseball diamond.
