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{{short description|Canadian former professional baseball player}} {{Short description|Canadian baseball player (born 1968)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2012}} {{Use mdy dates|date=October 2012}}
{{Infobox baseball biography {{Infobox baseball biography
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| debutyear = 1992 | debutyear = 1992
| debutteam = Montreal Expos | debutteam = Montreal Expos
|finalleague = MLB |final2league = MLB
| finaldate = July 22 | final2date = July 22
| finalyear = 2011 | final2year = 2011
| finalteam = Washington Nationals | final2team = Washington Nationals
|debut2league = NPB
| debut2date = June 15
| debut2year = 1993
| debut2team = Chunichi Dragons
|finalleague = NPB
| finaldate = October 18
| finalyear = 1993
| finalteam = Chunichi Dragons
|statleague = MLB |statleague = MLB
| stat1label = ] | stat1label = ]
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| stat3label = ] | stat3label = ]
| stat3value = 899 | stat3value = 899
|stat2league = NPB
| stat21label = Batting average
| stat21value = .250
| stat22label = Home runs
| stat22value = 6
| stat23label = Runs batted in
| stat23value = 23
| teams = | teams =
'''As player'''
* ] ({{mlby|1992}}–{{mlby|1993}}) * ] ({{mlby|1992}}–{{mlby|1993}})
* ] ({{mlby|1993}}) * ] ({{mlby|1993}})
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* ] ({{mlby|2010}}) * ] ({{mlby|2010}})
* ] ({{mlby|2011}}) * ] ({{mlby|2011}})
'''As coach'''
* ] ({{mlby|2017}})
* ] ({{mlby|2018}})
| awards = | awards =
* ] champion ({{wsy|2008}}) * ] champion ({{wsy|2008}})
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}} }}


'''Matthew Wade Stairs''' (born February 27, 1968) is a ] former ] ], ], and ], who holds the record for most ] ] in ] (MLB) history with 23.<ref> Reuters, August 22, 2010, accessed June 18, 2013.</ref> His pinch-hit home run in the eighth inning of ] in the ] off the ] ] ] was called "one of the most memorable home runs in Phillies history".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.phillies.mlb.com/news/article/4676068|title=Revisiting top 10 moments of '08 NLCS|last=Zolecki|first=Todd|work=MLB.com|date=May 11, 2009|accessdate=November 2, 2016}}</ref> '''Matthew Wade Stairs''' (born February 27, 1968) is a ] former ] ], ], and ], who holds the record for most ] ]s in ] (MLB) history with 23.<ref>{{Cite news|date=August 21, 2010|title=Stairs sets record for pinch hit home runs|language=en|work=]|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-baseball-padres-stairs-idUSTRE67L09420100822|access-date=June 18, 2013}}</ref> His pinch-hit home run in the eighth inning of ] in the ] off the ] ] ] was called "one of the most memorable home runs in Phillies history".<ref>{{cite web|last=Zolecki|first=Todd|date=May 11, 2009|title=Revisiting top 10 moments of '08 NLCS|url=http://m.phillies.mlb.com/news/article/4676068|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007002948/http://m.phillies.mlb.com/news/article/4676068/|archive-date=October 7, 2014|access-date=November 2, 2016|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref>


In his career, Stairs played for more teams than any position player in MLB history (12 — technically 13 teams, but 12 franchises, as he played for the ] and ]); ] holds the record for pitchers and all players at 14.<ref>. Espn.go.com (March 13, 2012).</ref> In his career, Stairs played for more teams than any position player in MLB history (12 – technically 13 teams, but 12 franchises, as he played for the ] and ]); ] holds the record for pitchers and all players at 14.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Stark|first=Jayson|date=March 13, 2012|title=Stark: Dotel knows all about changing places|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/spring2012/story/_/id/7677629/octavio-dotel-knows-all-changing-places|access-date=March 13, 2012|website=]|language=en}}</ref> Additionally he is one of only four Canadians to have played for both the ] and ], the others being ], ], and ].


He was the second Canadian-born player ever to hit more than thirty-five home runs in a season, and only the second to hit more than 25 home runs and drive in more than 100 runs in back-to-back seasons. He ranks either first or second in power hitting categories for Canadian major leaguers. Stairs also holds the all-time MLB record of home runs hit as a pinch-hitter with 23. His ability to pinch hit made him a valuable asset to several teams and earned him the nickname "Matt Stairs – Professional Hitter". Stairs, ], ], ], and ] are the only Canadian MLB players to hit at least 200 career home runs.<ref>. Baseball Reference.</ref> On February 4, 2015, Stairs was elected to the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article/108329010/carlos-delgado-matt-stairs-highlight-2015-canadian-hall-class|title=Delgado, Stairs highlight '15 Canadian Hall class|last=Chisholm|first=Gregor|work=MLB.com|date=February 4, 2015|accessdate=February 4, 2015}}</ref> He was the second Canadian-born player ever to hit more than thirty-five home runs in a season, and only the second to hit more than 25 home runs and drive in more than 100 runs in back-to-back seasons. He ranks either first or second in power hitting categories for Canadian major leaguers. Stairs also holds the all-time MLB record of home runs hit as a pinch-hitter with 23. His ability to pinch hit made him a valuable asset to several teams and earned him the nickname "Matt Stairs – Professional Hitter". Stairs, ], ], ], and ] are the only Canadian MLB players to hit at least 200 career home runs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Players by birthplace: Canada Baseball Stats and Info|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/bio/Canada_born.shtml|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref> On February 4, 2015, Stairs was elected to the ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Chisholm|first=Gregor|date=February 4, 2015|title=Delgado, Stairs highlight '15 Canadian Hall class|url=http://m.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article/108329010/carlos-delgado-matt-stairs-highlight-2015-canadian-hall-class|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204224846/http://m.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article/108329010/carlos-delgado-matt-stairs-highlight-2015-canadian-hall-class|archive-date=February 4, 2015|access-date=February 4, 2015|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref>


==Early life== ==Early life==
Growing up in ], New Brunswick, Stairs showed athletic ability at an early age, playing Beaver League baseball a year before his age eligibility; he also excelled in ]. After playing Bantam & Midget baseball, at age 16 and 17, he played for the local Marysville Royals of the ] and was voted "Rookie of The Year" in 1984 and the league's ] in 1985. He was also named ] MVP in 1987 and '88 while playing for the Fredericton Schooners. Born in ] and raised in ], New Brunswick, Stairs showed athletic ability at an early age, playing Beaver League baseball a year before his age eligibility; he also excelled in ]. After playing Bantam & Midget baseball at age 16 and 17, he played for the local Marysville Royals of the ] and was voted "Rookie of The Year" in 1984 and the league's ] in 1985. He was also named ] MVP in 1987 and '88 while playing for the Fredericton Schooners.


He attended the National Baseball Institute (NBI) in ] for one year and played for Canada at the 1987 World Amateur Championships in Italy where he was named to the "World All-Star" team. In 1988, he joined the Canadian Junior National team after graduating from ]. From there he went on to play for the Canadian Olympic Team at the ] in ], South Korea. He attended the National Baseball Institute (NBI) in ] for one year and played for Canada at the 1987 World Amateur Championships in Italy where he was named to the "World All-Star" team. In 1988, he joined the Canadian Junior National team after graduating from ]. From there he went on to play for the Canadian Olympic Team at the ] in ], South Korea.


==Minor league career== ==Minor league career==
On January 17, 1989, Stairs was signed as an international free agent by the ]. Stairs was then assigned to low single-A ] where he played second and third base. He played Double-A ball in ] for the Harrisburg Senators where he led the league in hitting and was voted the ]'s 1991 Most Valuable Player. In 1992 and 1993, he moved up to Triple-A (] and ], respectively), with only brief appearances in the majors. Over his career, Stairs has played for six other minor league teams: The ] (Triple-A) in 1992, the ] (Triple-A) in 1993, the ] (Double-A) in 1994, the ] (Triple-A) in 1995, the ] (Triple-A) in 1996 and a few rehab games for the ] (Triple-A) in 2003. His totals in the minors include a .291 ] with 46 ]s and 237 ].<ref> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405112359/http://minors.baseball-reference.com/players.cgi?pid=13937 |date=April 5, 2008 }} ''Minors.baseball-reference.com''</ref> On January 17, 1989, Stairs was signed as an international free agent by the ]. Stairs was then assigned to low single-A ] where he played second and third base. He played Double-A ball in ] for the ], where he led the league in hitting and was voted the ]'s 1991 Most Valuable Player. In 1992 and 1993, he moved up to Triple-A (] and ], respectively), with only brief appearances in the majors. Over his career, Stairs has played for six other minor league teams: The ] (Triple-A) in 1992, the ] (Triple-A) in 1993, the ] (Double-A) in 1994, the ] (Triple-A) in 1995, the ] (Triple-A) in 1996 and a few rehab games for the ] (Triple-A) in 2003. His totals in the minors include a .291 ] with 46 ]s and 237 ].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=Matt Stairs Minor & Japanese Leagues Statistics & History|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=stairs001mat|access-date=April 5, 2008|website=]|language=en}}</ref>


On June 8, 1993, Stairs' contract was purchased by the ] of the ]. He played 60 games for the Dragons that season, hitting .250, with 6 home runs in 142 at bats. On June 8, 1993, Stairs' contract was purchased by the ] of the ]. He played 60 games for the Dragons that season, hitting .250, with six home runs and 23 RBI in 142 at bats.<ref name=":0"/>


==Major league career== ==Major league career==
===Montreal Expos=== ===Montreal Expos===
Stairs began his ] career in 1992 with the Montreal Expos, with whom he played sporadically throughout the season. On December 15, 1993, he was re-signed as a ] by Montreal. He ended up only playing in 19 games for the Expos from 1992 to 1993. He was sold on February 18, 1994 to the ] and assigned to Double-A New Britain for the 1994 season. Stairs began his ] career in 1992 with the Montreal Expos, with whom he played sporadically throughout the season. On December 15, 1993, he was re-signed as a ] by Montreal. He ended up only playing in 19 games for the Expos from 1992 to 1993.<ref name=":1" /> Stairs was sold on February 18, 1994, to the ] and assigned to the Double-A ] for the 1994 season, where he batted .309 with nine home runs and 61 RBI in 93 games.<ref name=":0"/>


===Boston Red Sox=== ===Boston Red Sox===
He started the 1995 season with the Pawtucket farm club until being called up to the major leagues in June 1995. He played in 39 games for the Red Sox, hitting .261 with 1 HR and 17 RBI. At the end of the season, he accepted an offer to play with the ] after becoming a free agent. He started the 1995 season with the Pawtucket farm club until being called up to the major leagues in June 1995. He played in 39 games for the Red Sox, hitting .261 with a home run and 17 RBI.<ref name=":1" /> At the end of the season, he accepted an offer to play with the ] after becoming a free agent.


===Oakland Athletics=== ===Oakland Athletics===
Stairs had the best years of his career playing for the Athletics. He was called up from Triple-A ] in 1996, after crushing ] pitching to a tune of a .344 average with 8 homeruns and 41 RBI over the first 51 games. In 1999, he finished 17th in the ] in the ] race with a .258 batting average, 38 home runs and 102 RBI. He played mostly in right field and as a ], alongside superstars ], ], and ], throughout his tenure in Oakland. Stairs had the best years of his career playing for the Athletics. He was called up from Triple-A ] in 1996, after crushing ] pitching to a tune of a .344 average with eight home runs and 41 RBI over the first 51 games.<ref name=":0"/> He played mostly in right field and as a ], alongside superstars ], ], and ], throughout his tenure in Oakland.


In his July 5, 1996 debut with Oakland, Stairs tied a major league record with six runs batted in during one inning. That first inning performance included a ] and a two-run single.<ref>, ''The New York Times'', July 06, 1996, accessed June 17, 2013.</ref> (subsequently broken by ] in 1999). In 1998, he finished 17th in the ] in the ] race with a .258 batting average, 38 home runs and 102 RBI. In his July 5, 1996 debut with Oakland, Stairs tied a major league record with six runs batted in during one inning. That first inning performance included a ] and a two-run single<ref>{{Cite news|last=|first=|date=July 6, 1996|title=BASEBALL;Matt Stairs and A's Have a Huge First|language=en-US|work=]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/07/06/sports/baseball-matt-stairs-and-a-s-have-a-huge-first.html|access-date=June 17, 2013|issn=0362-4331}}</ref> (subsequently broken by ] in 1999). In 1999, he finished 17th in the ] in the ] race with a .258 batting average, 38 home runs and 102 RBI in 146 games.<ref name=":1" />


After five seasons with the Athletics, during which he hit 122 home runs and drove in 315 RBI, he was traded on November 20, 2000 to the ] for minor league pitcher Eric Ireland. The trade was largely seen as a cost-cutting move by the cash-strapped Athletics—Stairs was set to earn $3.2 million for the 2001 season, and his production had dropped in 2000, hitting just .227 with 21 home runs and 81 RBI. After five seasons with the Athletics, during which he hit 122 home runs and drove in 315 RBI, he was traded on November 20, 2000, to the ] for minor league pitcher Eric Ireland.<ref>{{Cite news|last=|first=|date=November 21, 2000|title=PLUS: BASEBALL; A's Trade Stairs For Minor Leaguer|language=en-US|work=]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/11/21/sports/plus-baseball-a-s-trade-stairs-for-minor-leaguer.html|access-date=January 6, 2022|issn=0362-4331}}</ref> The trade was largely seen as a cost-cutting move by the cash-strapped Athletics—Stairs was set to earn $3.2 million for the 2001 season, and his production had dropped in 2000, hitting just .227 with 21 home runs and 81 RBI.<ref name=":1" />


===Chicago Cubs=== ===Chicago Cubs===
He was the ] for the Cubs in 2001. He had an OBP of .358 and hit 17 HRs and drove in 61 runs in 128 games. After 2001, he signed with the ] as a free agent for the 2002 season. On December 19, 2000, Stairs agreed to a one-year, $3.2 million contract with the Cubs to avoid arbitration.<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 19, 2000|title=Cubs Sign Matt Stairs|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cubs-sign-matt-stairs/|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|publisher=]|language=en-US}}</ref> He served as the ] for the Cubs in 2001. Stairs had an OBP of .358 and batted .250 with 17 home runs and 61 RBI in 128 games.<ref name=":1" /> He then became a free agent after the season.


===Milwaukee Brewers=== ===Milwaukee Brewers===
In 2002, Stairs had a similar season to the previous one with the Cubs. He finished the season with 16 home runs, but still had a low batting average, hitting .244. He elected to sign with the ] the following season. On January 25, 2002, Stairs signed a one-year, $500,000 contract with the ] for the 2002 season.<ref>{{Cite web|date=January 25, 2002|title=Stairs agrees to one-year deal with Brewers|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/2002/0125/1317362.html|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> In 2002, Stairs had a similar season to the previous one with the Cubs. He finished the season with 16 home runs and 41 RBI in 107 games, but still had a low batting average, hitting .244.<ref name=":1" />


===Pittsburgh Pirates=== ===Pittsburgh Pirates===
2003 was a strong year for Stairs. He had the best batting average of his career, hitting .292 in 128 games playing as a first baseman and outfielder. He also hit 20 home runs and drove in 57 runs. Stairs' 2003 season included a 3-game series back in Canada against the Blue Jays. In the three games at ] (then called the Skydome), Stairs had 5 ] in 8 ]s which included 2 long home runs.<ref>. Sports.yahoo.com.</ref> On December 16, 2002, Stairs agreed to a one-year, $900,000 contract with the ].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Dvorchak|first=Robert|date=December 16, 2002|title=Pirates make a move to step up their offense by adding Stairs|url=https://old.post-gazette.com/pirates/20021216bucs1216p4.asp|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref> 2003 was a strong year for Stairs. He finished the year batting .292 with 20 home runs and 57 RBI in 128 games while playing as a first baseman and outfielder.<ref name=":1" /> Stairs' 2003 season included a three-game series back in Canada against the Blue Jays. In the three games at ] (then called the Skydome), Stairs had five ] in eight ]s, which included two long home runs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Matt Stairs 2003 Batting Splits|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/split.fcgi?id=stairma01&t=b&year=2003|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref>


===Kansas City Royals=== ===Kansas City Royals===
Stairs enjoyed three solid years with the ] after signing with them following the '03 season. Despite being on one of the worst teams in baseball, Stairs helped some of the younger players like ] and ] adjust to the majors. He hit 39 home runs in his two-and-a-half years in Kansas City. On July 31, 2006, at the trade deadline, Stairs was dealt to the ] for ]. On December 9, 2003, Stairs signed a one-year deal with the ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 9, 2003|title=Royals sign OF Stairs|url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2003/12/09/Royals-sign-OF-Stairs/58851070999882/|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref> He went on to enjoy three solid years with the Royals, hitting 39 home runs in his two-and-a-half years in Kansas City.<ref name=":1" /> Despite being on one of the worst teams in baseball, Stairs helped some of the younger players like ] and ] adjust to the majors. On July 31, 2006, at the trade deadline, Stairs was dealt to the ] for ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=July 31, 2006|title=Rangers trade for Matt Stairs|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/rangers-trade-for-matt-stairs-1.599925|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref>


===Texas Rangers=== ===Texas Rangers===
The Rangers hoped that Stairs could provide some veteran leadership on their club, but he just played in 26 games before being waived by the Rangers in 2006. He was picked up off waivers by the ] on September 15, 2006. The Rangers hoped that Stairs could provide some veteran leadership on their club, but he just played in 26 games, batting .210 with three home runs and 11 RBI before being waived by the Rangers.<ref name=":1" /> He was picked up off waivers by the ] on September 15, 2006.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|date=September 15, 2006|title=Tigers claim 1B-DH Stairs from Rangers|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=mlb&id=2589363|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref>


===Detroit Tigers=== ===Detroit Tigers===
On the day he was claimed, he immediately went to Detroit, arriving at ] halfway through the game and immediately taking ]'s place in the lineup. The Tigers picked up Stairs in hopes that his experience could help them hold their division lead. The Tigers lost their division lead on the final day of the season, but still clinched the ]. Since he was acquired after August 31, the deadline for play-off eligible players, he was unable to play for the Tigers during the playoffs. The Tigers went on to win the AL Pennant and lost in the ] to the ]. He did not re-sign with the Tigers following the season. On the day he was claimed, he immediately went to Detroit, arriving at ] halfway through the game and immediately taking ]'s place in the lineup. The Tigers picked up Stairs in hopes that his experience could help them hold their division lead.<ref name=":2"/> The Tigers lost their division lead on the final day of the season, but still clinched the ]. In 14 games with the Tigers, Stairs batted .244 with two home runs and 8 RBI.<ref name=":1" /> Since he was acquired after August 31, the deadline for play-off eligible players, he was unable to play for the Tigers during the playoffs. The Tigers went on to win the AL Pennant and lost in the ] to the ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=2006 World Series - St. Louis Cardinals over Detroit Tigers (4-1)|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2006_WS.shtml|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref> He did not re-sign with the Tigers following the season.


===Toronto Blue Jays=== ===Toronto Blue Jays===
On December 7, 2006, Stairs and the ] agreed to a one-year minor-league contract with an invitation to ]. He made the team and saw significant playing time as the fourth outfielder, replacing ] at first base during Overbay's time on the ]. The 2007 season rejuvenated Stairs' career, due to increased playing time following injuries to ] and Overbay. Unexpectedly playing every day, he performed well above expectations, providing consistency at the plate and a valuable veteran presence in the Toronto dugout; team manager ] publicly stated, "I don't know where we'd be without him."<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/228878 | work=The Star | location=Toronto | title=Stairs has another big day | first=Mark | last=Zwolinski | date=June 24, 2007 | accessdate=May 12, 2010}}</ref> As of September 4, Stairs had the highest ] on the Jays at .606 and the highest batting average at .312. On December 7, 2006, Stairs and the ] agreed to a one-year minor-league contract with an invitation to ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=December 12, 2006|title=Blue Jays finalize deals for Stairs, Smith|url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/blue-jays-finalize-deals-for-stairs-smith-1.627163|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref> He made the team and saw significant playing time as the fourth outfielder, replacing ] at first base during Overbay's time on the ]. The 2007 season rejuvenated Stairs' career, due to increased playing time following injuries to ] and Overbay. Unexpectedly playing every day, he performed well above expectations, providing consistency at the plate and a valuable veteran presence in the Toronto dugout; team manager ] publicly stated, "I don't know where we'd be without him."<ref>{{cite news|last=Zwolinski|first=Mark|date=June 24, 2007|title=Stairs has another big day|work=]|location=Toronto|url=https://www.thestar.com/Sports/article/228878|access-date=May 12, 2010}}</ref> As of September 4, Stairs had the highest ] on the Jays at .606 and the highest batting average at .312.


On August 8, 2007, Stairs became the first Toronto Blue Jays player to hit five consecutive ] in five at-bats, and the first Major Leaguer to double in five straight at-bats in fourteen years since ] accomplished the feat in 1993.<ref>. Toronto.bluejays.mlb.com (June 19, 2012).</ref> As of September 8, 2007, Stairs was playing well for the Blue Jays, with a team-leading .315 average on the season and a .989 OPS. He finished the season batting .289 with 21 home runs and 64 RBIs—good numbers for a 39-year-old with only about 400 at bats in the year. On August 8, 2007, Stairs became the first Toronto Blue Jays player to hit five consecutive ] in five at-bats, and the first Major Leaguer to double in five straight at-bats in fourteen years since ] accomplished the feat in 1993.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bastian|first=Jordan|date=August 9, 2007|title=Jays back Halladay in big way|url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070808&content_id=2138199&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110518174521/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070808&content_id=2138199&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|archive-date=May 18, 2011|access-date=June 19, 2012|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> As of September 8, 2007, Stairs was playing well for the Blue Jays, with a team-leading .315 average on the season and a .989 OPS. He finished the season batting .289 with 21 home runs and 64 RBIs—good numbers for a 39-year-old with only about 400 at bats in the year.<ref name=":1" />


On November 2, 2007, Stairs and the Jays agreed on a two-year contract worth $3,250,000,<ref>. Toronto.bluejays.mlb.com (June 19, 2012).</ref> which included a $1.25 million signing bonus and $1 million in each of the 2 seasons. With performance bonuses, Stairs could make as much as $3.50 million based on plate appearances. On November 2, 2007, Stairs and the Blue Jays agreed on a two-year, $3.25 million contract, which included a $1.25 million signing bonus and a $1 million base salary in each of the two seasons.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|last=Bastian|first=Jordan|date=November 2, 2007|title=Stairs, Jays agree to two-year deal|url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071102&content_id=2291215&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071104005857/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071102&content_id=2291215&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|archive-date=November 4, 2007|access-date=June 19, 2012|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> With performance bonuses, Stairs could make as much as $3.5 million based on plate appearances.<ref name=":3" />


Though his age and increasingly poor speed earned him a reputation as a defensive liability in the outfield, he still possessed a strong throwing arm, and was considered a perfectly capable fielder at first. In 2008, Stairs initially platooned in left field with ]; however, upon the club's release of ], Stairs became the everyday DH for the ball club. Stairs was ] on August 28, 2008. Though his age and increasingly poor speed earned him a reputation as a defensive liability in the outfield, he still possessed a strong throwing arm, and was considered a perfectly capable fielder at first. In 2008, Stairs initially platooned in left field with ]; however, upon the club's release of ] on April 20 Stairs became the everyday DH for the ball club, although was later ] on August 28, 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bastian|first=Jordan|date=August 29, 2008|title=Jays designate Stairs for assignment|url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080828&content_id=3383904&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080831214614/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080828&content_id=3383904&vkey=news_tor&fext=.jsp&c_id=tor|archive-date=August 31, 2008|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref>


===Philadelphia Phillies=== ===Philadelphia Phillies===
On August 30, 2008, Stairs was traded to the ] for ].<ref>. Philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com.</ref> On August 30, 2008, Stairs was traded to the ] for ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=August 30, 2008|title=Phillies acquire Stairs|url=http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20080830&content_id=3390552&vkey=pr_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080903201650/http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20080830&content_id=3390552&vkey=pr_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|archive-date=September 3, 2008|access-date=September 3, 2008|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref>


Stairs hit his first career postseason home run on October 13, 2008 in Game 4 of the ] against the ] off ], allowing the Phillies to take the lead and win the game. In the 2009 season, he once again made it to the World Series.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=3618349 |title=Video of Matt Stairs' Home Run in Dodger Stadium in 2008 NLCS }}</ref> Stairs hit his first career postseason home run on October 13, 2008, in Game 4 of the ] against the ] off ], allowing the Phillies to take the lead and win the game.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mandel|first=Ken|date=October 14, 2008|title=Phillies rally late, grab 3-1 NLCS lead|url=http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20081013&content_id=3617330&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081015064646/http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/gameday_recap.jsp?ymd=20081013&content_id=3617330&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|archive-date=October 15, 2008|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref>


He won the first ] of his 16-year career on October 29, 2008, when the Phillies won the ] against the Rays, 4 games to 1. On April 12, 2009, Stairs' game-winning home run against the ] was the last home run called by legendary broadcaster ], who died unexpectedly less than 24 hours later. He won the first ] of his 16-year career on October 29, 2008, when the Phillies won the ] against the Rays, four games to one.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2008 World Series - Philadelphia Phillies over Tampa Bay Rays (4-1)|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2008_WS.shtml|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref> On April 12, 2009, Stairs' game-winning home run against the ] was the last home run called by broadcaster ], who died unexpectedly less than 24 hours later.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Kepner|first=Tyler|date=March 20, 2017|title=Matt Stairs Leaves the Booth to Try to Get the Phillies Hitting Again|language=en-US|work=]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/20/sports/baseball/matt-stairs-leaves-the-booth-to-try-to-get-the-phillies-hitting-again.html|access-date=January 6, 2022|issn=0362-4331}}</ref>


Stairs faced Broxton again in the ninth inning of Game Four of the 2009 NLCS rematch between the Phillies and Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Broxton pitched around Stairs, walking him on four pitches. The Phillies won the game later in the inning on a walk-off double by Jimmy Rollins, on which Stairs' ] ] scored. Stairs faced Broxton again in the ninth inning of Game 4 of the ] rematch between the Phillies and Dodgers at ] in Philadelphia. Broxton pitched around Stairs, walking him on four pitches.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|last=Zolecki|first=Todd|date=October 20, 2009|title=Rollins' walk-off has Phils win from Series|url=http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091019&content_id=7495068&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091023075453/http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091019&content_id=7495068&vkey=recap&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi|archive-date=October 23, 2009|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> The Phillies won the game later in the inning on a walk-off double by Jimmy Rollins, on which Stairs' ] ] scored.<ref name=":4"/> In the 2009 season, he once again made it to the World Series, but the Phillies lost to the ] in six games.<ref>{{Cite web|title=2009 World Series - New York Yankees over Philadelphia Phillies (4-2)|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2009_WS.shtml|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]|language=en}}</ref>


During his time with the team, T-shirts were marketed which touched on Stairs' pinch-hitting prowess in clutch situations. They used a warning which can be found in many ]s: "In Case of Emergency, Use Stairs."<ref> {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100802055943/http://www.birdland.bigcartel.com/product/moon-shot |date=August 2, 2010 }}</ref> During his time with the team, T-shirts were marketed which touched on Stairs' pinch-hitting prowess in clutch situations. They used a warning which can be found in many ]s: "In Case of Emergency, Use Stairs."<ref>{{Cite web|title=Birdland – Moon Shot|url=http://www.birdland.bigcartel.com/product/moon-shot|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100802055943/http://www.birdland.bigcartel.com/product/moon-shot|archive-date=August 2, 2010|access-date=August 2, 2010|website=The Birdland & Fightins}}</ref>


===San Diego Padres=== ===San Diego Padres===
] in 2010.]] ] in 2010.]]
On January 23, 2010, Stairs agreed to a minor league contract with the ] with an invite to spring training hoping to crack their 25-man roster out of spring as a left-handed bat off the bench.<ref>. Sports.espn.go.com (January 23, 2010).</ref><ref>. Sandiego.padres.mlb.com.</ref> On August 21, Stairs hit his 21st home run as a ] to break a tie with ] for the Major League record. On January 23, 2010, Stairs agreed to a minor league contract with the ] with an invite to spring training hoping to crack their 25-man roster out of spring as a left-handed bat off the bench.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Crasnick|first=Jerry|date=January 23, 2010|title=Stairs agrees to minor league deal with Padres|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=4852323|access-date=January 23, 2010|website=]|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Brock|first=Corey|date=January 23, 2010|title=Padres ink Stairs to Minors deal|url=http://sandiego.padres.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100123&content_id=7959426&vkey=news_sd&fext=.jsp&c_id=sd|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100128102741/http://sandiego.padres.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100123&content_id=7959426&vkey=news_sd&fext=.jsp&c_id=sd|archive-date=January 28, 2010|access-date=January 28, 2010|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> During the offseason, he lost nearly 40 pounds, which helped him make the team out of spring training.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Caple|first=Jim|date=March 17, 2010|title=Caple: Matt Stairs slims down|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?sportCat=mlb&page=caple/100317|access-date=March 17, 2010|website=]}}</ref> When he joined the Padres, he became the only player in MLB history to play for all four of the ] (the Padres, Royals, Expos, and Brewers). On August 21, Stairs hit his 21st home run as a ] to break a tie with ] for the Major League record.<ref>{{Cite news|date=August 22, 2010|title=Padres' Matt Stairs sets record for most pinch-hit homers|language=en-CA|work=]|url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/baseball/2010/08/22/padres_matt_stairs_sets_record_for_most_pinchhit_homers.html|access-date=January 6, 2022|issn=0319-0781}}</ref>


===Washington Nationals=== ===Washington Nationals===
On December 14, 2010, the ] signed Stairs to a non-guaranteed minor league contract, which included an invitation to Major League Spring training.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2010/12/nationals_sign_matt_stairs.html | work=The Washington Post | title=Nationals sign Matt Stairs}}</ref><ref>. Mlb.mlb.com.</ref> After spring training, he was placed on the 25-man roster and went north with the team. Mostly used as a ], with four appearances at first base, in 65 at-bats he had 10 hits and two RBIs.<ref>. Baseball Reference.</ref> He was ] on July 27, 2011.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/6809561/washington-nationals-designate-matt-stairs-add-jonny-gomes-roster |title=Nationals DFA veteran Matt Stairs |date=July 27, 2011 |accessdate=July 28, 2011 |publisher=ESPN}}</ref> He was released on August 1<ref>{{cite web|last=Dierkes|first=Tim|title=Nationals Release Matt Stairs|url=http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/08/nationals-release-matt-stairs.html|work=MLBTradeRumors.com|accessdate=August 1, 2011}}</ref> and announced his retirement two days later.<ref>Links, Zach. (August 3, 2011) . MLBTradeRumors.com.</ref> On December 14, 2010, the ] signed Stairs to a non-guaranteed minor league contract, which included an invitation to Major League Spring training.<ref>{{cite news|last=Kilgore|first=Adam|date=December 14, 2010|title=Nationals sign Matt Stairs|newspaper=]|url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2010/12/nationals_sign_matt_stairs.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011093104/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2010/12/nationals_sign_matt_stairs.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 11, 2012|access-date=December 14, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=December 14, 2010|title=Nationals agree to terms with OF/1B Matt Stairs|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20101214&content_id=16317610&vkey=pr_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110107222036/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20101214&content_id=16317610&vkey=pr_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was|archive-date=January 7, 2011|access-date=January 7, 2011|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref> After spring training, he was placed on the 25-man roster and went north with the team. Mostly used as a ], with four appearances at first base, in 65 at-bats he had 10 hits and two RBIs.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Matt Stairs Stats|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stairma01.shtml|access-date=|website=]|language=en}}</ref> He was ] on July 27, 2011.<ref>{{cite news|date=July 27, 2011|title=Nationals DFA veteran Matt Stairs|work=]|publisher=]|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/6809561/washington-nationals-designate-matt-stairs-add-jonny-gomes-roster|access-date=July 28, 2011}}</ref> He was released on August 1<ref>{{cite web|last=Dierkes|first=Tim|date=August 1, 2011|title=Nationals Release Matt Stairs|url=http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/08/nationals-release-matt-stairs.html|access-date=August 1, 2011|work=MLB Trade Rumors}}</ref> and announced his retirement two days later.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Links|first=Zachary|date=August 3, 2011|title=Matt Stairs Retires|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/08/matt-stairs-retires.html|access-date=August 3, 2011|website=MLB Trade Rumors|language=en-US}}</ref>


==Coaching career== ==Coaching career==
On November 2, 2016, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/sports/phillies/Matt-Stairs-is-new-Phillies-hitting-coach.html|title=Matt Stairs named Phillies hitting coach|last=Breen|first=Matt|work=philly.com|date=November 2, 2016|accessdate=November 2, 2016}}</ref> On November 2, 2016, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the ].<ref name=":5">{{cite web|last=Breen|first=Matt|date=November 2, 2016|title=Matt Stairs named Phillies hitting coach|url=http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/sports/phillies/Matt-Stairs-is-new-Phillies-hitting-coach.html|access-date=November 2, 2016|work=]}}</ref>


On October 30, 2017, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.padres.mlb.com/news/article/259826520/padres-hire-matt-stairs-as-hitting-coach/?topicId=27118400|title=Padres hire Stairs as hitting coach|last=Cassavell|first=AJ|work=padres.com|date=October 30, 2017|accessdate=October 30, 2017}}</ref> He was fired after one season.<ref>http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24943195/san-diego-padres-fire-hitting-coach-matt-stairs-lackluster-year</ref> On October 30, 2017, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Cassavell|first=AJ|date=October 27, 2017|title=Padres hire Stairs as hitting coach|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-hire-matt-stairs-as-hitting-coach-c259826520#:~:text=SAN%20DIEGO%20%2D%2D%20Matt%20Stairs,and%20general%20manager%20A.J.%20Preller.|access-date=October 30, 2017|work=]|publisher=]}}</ref> He was fired after one season.<ref>{{Cite web|date=October 9, 2018|title=Padres fire hitting coach Stairs after subpar year|url=http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24943195/san-diego-padres-fire-hitting-coach-matt-stairs-lackluster-year|access-date=October 9, 2018|website=]|publisher=]}}</ref>

In 2024, Stairs was hired to the ] as the program’s Academy Coaching Staff as the Dawgs Hitting Coordinator.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dawgs Add Hitting Legend Matt Stairs To Academy Coaching Staff {{!}} Okotoks Dawgs Baseball |url=https://dawgsbaseball.ca/news/2024-08-26-dawgs-add-hitting-legend-matt-stairs-to-academy-coaching-staff/ |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=Dawgs Baseball |language=en}}</ref>


==Career perspective== ==Career perspective==
Noted baseball analysts ] and ] have theorized that Stairs is probably a far more talented hitter than his career stats suggest. Stairs didn't have 500 plate appearances until age 29, at which point he recorded 100 RBI seasons and an ] of over 130 two years in a row—and never saw 500 at-bats again. James contends, "You put him in the right park, right position early in his career ... he's going to hit a LOT of bombs." Possibly, Posnanski contends, enough to have been worthy of Hall of Fame consideration.<ref>James, quoted by Joe Posnanski, "The Hall of Could have Been" Tuesday, April 24, 2007 http://thesoulofbaseball.blogspot.com/2007/04/hall-of-could-have-been.html</ref> Noted baseball analysts ] and ] have theorized that Stairs is probably a far more talented hitter than his career stats suggest. Stairs didn't have 500 plate appearances until age 30, at which point he recorded 100 RBI seasons and an ] of over 130 two years in a row—and never exceeded 500 plate appearances again after 3 straight seasons of 500 or more from 1998-2000. James contends, "You put him in the right park, right position early in his career ... he's going to hit a LOT of bombs." Possibly, Posnanski contends, enough to have been worthy of Hall of Fame consideration.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Posnanski|first=Joe|date=April 24, 2007|title=The Hall of Could Have Been|url=https://thesoulofbaseball.blogspot.com/2007/04/hall-of-could-have-been.html|access-date=April 24, 2007|website=The Soul of Baseball}}</ref>


==Other work and personal life== ==Other work and personal life==
In January 2012, Stairs accepted a job with the ] sports news station to work as a ] studio analyst.<ref>. Bangordailynews.com (January 30, 2012).</ref> On February 11, 2014, the Phillies announced that Stairs and fellow former-Phillie ] would join the team's television broadcasting crew as color analysts, following the dismissal of ] and ]. Stairs worked with play-by-play commentator ] and in-game reporter Gregg Murphy, and occasionally with ],<ref>http://www.mcall.com/sports/mc-phillies-broadcast-moyer-stairs-20140211,0,4243902.story {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222035652/http://www.mcall.com/sports/mc-phillies-broadcast-moyer-stairs-20140211%2C0%2C4243902.story |date=February 22, 2014 }}</ref> before moving to the Phillies' dugout as the team's hitting coach starting with the 2017 season. In January 2012, Stairs accepted a job with the ] sports news station to work as a ] studio analyst.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mahoney|first=Larry|date=January 30, 2012|title=Bangor's Matt Stairs gets NESN job as Red Sox studio analyst|url=http://bangordailynews.com/2012/01/30/sports/baseball/bangors-matt-stairs-gets-nesn-job-as-red-sox-studio-analyst/|access-date=January 31, 2012|website=]|language=en-US}}</ref> On February 11, 2014, the Phillies announced that Stairs and fellow former-Phillie ] would join the team's television broadcasting crew as color analysts, following the dismissal of ] and ]. Stairs worked with play-by-play commentator ] and in-game reporter Gregg Murphy, and occasionally with ],<ref>{{Cite web|date=February 11, 2014|title=Jamie Moyer and Matt Stairs to join Phillies broadcast booth|url=http://www.mcall.com/sports/mc-phillies-broadcast-moyer-stairs-20140211,0,4243902.story|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222035652/http://www.mcall.com/sports/mc-phillies-broadcast-moyer-stairs-20140211%2C0%2C4243902.story|archive-date=February 22, 2014|access-date=February 22, 2014|website=]}}</ref> before moving to the Phillies' dugout as the team's hitting coach starting with the 2017 season.<ref name=":5" />

⚫ He is married to Lisa Astle of ] with whom he has three daughters, Nicole, Alicia and Chandler.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Official Site of the Toronto Blue Jays|url=http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/team/player_career.jsp?player_id=122644|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080625073743/http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/team/player_career.jsp?player_id=122644|archive-date=June 25, 2008|access-date=June 19, 2012|website=]}}</ref> He lives in Fredericton and was named coach of the ] ice hockey team in 2012, a job he had often referred to as his dream.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Stubits|first=Brian|date=November 18, 2012|title=Video: Former MLB player Matt Stairs coaching high school hockey team|url=http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/21041349/video-former-mlb-player-matt-stairs-coaching-high-school-hockey-team|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140506100902/http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/21041349/video-former-mlb-player-matt-stairs-coaching-high-school-hockey-team|archive-date=May 6, 2014|access-date=May 6, 2014|website=]}}</ref>

Stairs was inducted into the ] in June 2012.<ref>{{Cite web|date=March 1, 2012|title=Matt Stairs leads Sports Hall of Fame inductees|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/matt-stairs-leads-sports-hall-of-fame-inductees-1.1276911|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref>


On June 15, 2015, Stairs was inducted into the ].<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 13, 2015|title=New Brunswick's Matt Stairs heads to Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/new-brunswick-s-matt-stairs-heads-to-canadian-baseball-hall-of-fame-1.3111180|access-date=January 6, 2022|website=]}}</ref>
⚫ He is married to Lisa Astle of ] with whom he has three daughters, Nicole, Alicia and Chandler.<ref>. Toronto.bluejays.mlb.com (June 19, 2012).</ref> He lives in Fredericton and was named coach of the ] ice hockey team in 2012, a job he had often referred to as his dream.<ref>http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21041349/video-former-mlb-player-matt-stairs-coaching-high-school-hockey-team</ref>


Stairs was inducted into the ] in June 2012. In November 2016, Stairs was among those nominated and placed on the ] for the ];<ref>http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2016/11/21/pat-burrell-matt-stairs-make-first-appearance-on-2017-baseball-hall-of-fame-ballot Retrieved November 22, 2016</ref> he did not receive enough votes to appear on future ballots. In November 2016, Stairs was among those nominated and placed on the ] for the ];<ref>{{Cite web|date=November 21, 2016|title=Burrell, Stairs Make 1st Appearance On 2017 Baseball HOF Ballot|url=https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2016/11/21/pat-burrell-matt-stairs-make-first-appearance-on-2017-baseball-hall-of-fame-ballot/|access-date=November 22, 2016|website=]|language=en-US}}</ref> he did not receive enough votes to appear on future ballots.


==See also== ==See also==
* ] * ]
⚫ * ]


==References== ==References==
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==External links== ==External links==
{{baseballstats|mlb=122644|espn=2690|br=s/stairma01|fangraphs=1384|brm=stairs001mat|retro=S/Pstaim001}} *{{baseballstats|mlb=122644|espn=2690|br=s/stairma01|fangraphs=1384|brm=stairs001mat|retro=S/Pstaim001}}
*{{SABR Baseball Biography Project|7f30112b}}
* at SABR (Baseball BioProject)
*{{COC profile|matthew-stairs|Matthew Stairs}} *{{Olympedia|901109|Matt Stairs}}
*{{IOC profile|matthew-stairs|Matthew Stairs}} *{{Team Canada|matthew-stairs|Matthew Stairs}}
*{{Olympics.com|matthew-stairs|Matthew Stairs}}
:<br>


{{s-start-collapsible|header={{S-ach}}}} {{s-start-collapsible|header={{S-ach}}}}
{{succession box | before = ] | title = Oldest Player in the<br>] | years = 2011 | after=]}} {{succession box | before = ] | title = Oldest Player in the<br>] | years = 2011 | after=]}}
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{{2008 Philadelphia Phillies}} {{2008 Philadelphia Phillies}}
{{Canada roster 2009 World Baseball Classic}} {{Canada roster 2009 World Baseball Classic}}
{{Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame}}


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Latest revision as of 03:18, 27 September 2024

Canadian baseball player (born 1968)

Baseball player
Matt Stairs
Stairs with the Washington Nationals in 2011
Outfielder / Designated hitter / First baseman
Born: (1968-02-27) February 27, 1968 (age 56)
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Batted: LeftThrew: Right
Professional debut
MLB: May 29, 1992, for the Montreal Expos
NPB: June 15, 1993, for the Chunichi Dragons
Last appearance
NPB: October 18, 1993, for the Chunichi Dragons
MLB: July 22, 2011, for the Washington Nationals
MLB statistics
Batting average.262
Home runs265
Runs batted in899
NPB statistics
Batting average.250
Home runs6
Runs batted in23
Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata
Teams
As player

As coach

Career highlights and awards
Member of the Canadian
Baseball Hall of Fame
Induction2015

Matthew Wade Stairs (born February 27, 1968) is a Canadian former professional baseball outfielder, first baseman, and designated hitter, who holds the record for most pinch-hit home runs in Major League Baseball (MLB) history with 23. His pinch-hit home run in the eighth inning of Game 4 in the 2008 National League Championship Series off the Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Jonathan Broxton was called "one of the most memorable home runs in Phillies history".

In his career, Stairs played for more teams than any position player in MLB history (12 – technically 13 teams, but 12 franchises, as he played for the Montreal Expos and Washington Nationals); Edwin Jackson holds the record for pitchers and all players at 14. Additionally he is one of only four Canadians to have played for both the Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Expos, the others being Denis Boucher, Rob Ducey, and Shawn Hill.

He was the second Canadian-born player ever to hit more than thirty-five home runs in a season, and only the second to hit more than 25 home runs and drive in more than 100 runs in back-to-back seasons. He ranks either first or second in power hitting categories for Canadian major leaguers. Stairs also holds the all-time MLB record of home runs hit as a pinch-hitter with 23. His ability to pinch hit made him a valuable asset to several teams and earned him the nickname "Matt Stairs – Professional Hitter". Stairs, Larry Walker, Justin Morneau, Jason Bay, and Joey Votto are the only Canadian MLB players to hit at least 200 career home runs. On February 4, 2015, Stairs was elected to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

Early life

Born in Saint John and raised in Tay Creek, New Brunswick, Stairs showed athletic ability at an early age, playing Beaver League baseball a year before his age eligibility; he also excelled in hockey. After playing Bantam & Midget baseball at age 16 and 17, he played for the local Marysville Royals of the New Brunswick Senior Baseball League and was voted "Rookie of The Year" in 1984 and the league's Most Valuable Player in 1985. He was also named Nova Scotia Senior Baseball League MVP in 1987 and '88 while playing for the Fredericton Schooners.

He attended the National Baseball Institute (NBI) in Vancouver, British Columbia for one year and played for Canada at the 1987 World Amateur Championships in Italy where he was named to the "World All-Star" team. In 1988, he joined the Canadian Junior National team after graduating from Fredericton High School. From there he went on to play for the Canadian Olympic Team at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.

Minor league career

On January 17, 1989, Stairs was signed as an international free agent by the Montreal Expos. Stairs was then assigned to low single-A Jamestown Expos where he played second and third base. He played Double-A ball in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for the Harrisburg Senators, where he led the league in hitting and was voted the Eastern League's 1991 Most Valuable Player. In 1992 and 1993, he moved up to Triple-A (Indianapolis and Ottawa, respectively), with only brief appearances in the majors. Over his career, Stairs has played for six other minor league teams: The Indianapolis Indians (Triple-A) in 1992, the Ottawa Lynx (Triple-A) in 1993, the New Britain Red Sox (Double-A) in 1994, the Pawtucket Red Sox (Triple-A) in 1995, the Edmonton Trappers (Triple-A) in 1996 and a few rehab games for the Nashville Sounds (Triple-A) in 2003. His totals in the minors include a .291 batting average with 46 home runs and 237 RBI.

On June 8, 1993, Stairs' contract was purchased by the Chunichi Dragons of the NPB. He played 60 games for the Dragons that season, hitting .250, with six home runs and 23 RBI in 142 at bats.

Major league career

Montreal Expos

Stairs began his Major League career in 1992 with the Montreal Expos, with whom he played sporadically throughout the season. On December 15, 1993, he was re-signed as a free agent by Montreal. He ended up only playing in 19 games for the Expos from 1992 to 1993. Stairs was sold on February 18, 1994, to the Boston Red Sox and assigned to the Double-A New Britain Red Sox for the 1994 season, where he batted .309 with nine home runs and 61 RBI in 93 games.

Boston Red Sox

He started the 1995 season with the Pawtucket farm club until being called up to the major leagues in June 1995. He played in 39 games for the Red Sox, hitting .261 with a home run and 17 RBI. At the end of the season, he accepted an offer to play with the Oakland Athletics after becoming a free agent.

Oakland Athletics

Stairs had the best years of his career playing for the Athletics. He was called up from Triple-A Edmonton in 1996, after crushing International League pitching to a tune of a .344 average with eight home runs and 41 RBI over the first 51 games. He played mostly in right field and as a designated hitter, alongside superstars Rickey Henderson, Mark McGwire, and Jose Canseco, throughout his tenure in Oakland.

In his July 5, 1996 debut with Oakland, Stairs tied a major league record with six runs batted in during one inning. That first inning performance included a grand slam and a two-run single (subsequently broken by Fernando Tatís in 1999). In 1999, he finished 17th in the American League in the MVP race with a .258 batting average, 38 home runs and 102 RBI in 146 games.

After five seasons with the Athletics, during which he hit 122 home runs and drove in 315 RBI, he was traded on November 20, 2000, to the Chicago Cubs for minor league pitcher Eric Ireland. The trade was largely seen as a cost-cutting move by the cash-strapped Athletics—Stairs was set to earn $3.2 million for the 2001 season, and his production had dropped in 2000, hitting just .227 with 21 home runs and 81 RBI.

Chicago Cubs

On December 19, 2000, Stairs agreed to a one-year, $3.2 million contract with the Cubs to avoid arbitration. He served as the first baseman for the Cubs in 2001. Stairs had an OBP of .358 and batted .250 with 17 home runs and 61 RBI in 128 games. He then became a free agent after the season.

Milwaukee Brewers

On January 25, 2002, Stairs signed a one-year, $500,000 contract with the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2002 season. In 2002, Stairs had a similar season to the previous one with the Cubs. He finished the season with 16 home runs and 41 RBI in 107 games, but still had a low batting average, hitting .244.

Pittsburgh Pirates

On December 16, 2002, Stairs agreed to a one-year, $900,000 contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. 2003 was a strong year for Stairs. He finished the year batting .292 with 20 home runs and 57 RBI in 128 games while playing as a first baseman and outfielder. Stairs' 2003 season included a three-game series back in Canada against the Blue Jays. In the three games at Rogers Centre (then called the Skydome), Stairs had five hits in eight at-bats, which included two long home runs.

Kansas City Royals

On December 9, 2003, Stairs signed a one-year deal with the Kansas City Royals. He went on to enjoy three solid years with the Royals, hitting 39 home runs in his two-and-a-half years in Kansas City. Despite being on one of the worst teams in baseball, Stairs helped some of the younger players like John Buck and David DeJesus adjust to the majors. On July 31, 2006, at the trade deadline, Stairs was dealt to the Texas Rangers for Joselo Díaz.

Texas Rangers

The Rangers hoped that Stairs could provide some veteran leadership on their club, but he just played in 26 games, batting .210 with three home runs and 11 RBI before being waived by the Rangers. He was picked up off waivers by the Detroit Tigers on September 15, 2006.

Detroit Tigers

On the day he was claimed, he immediately went to Detroit, arriving at Comerica Park halfway through the game and immediately taking Marcus Thames's place in the lineup. The Tigers picked up Stairs in hopes that his experience could help them hold their division lead. The Tigers lost their division lead on the final day of the season, but still clinched the Wild Card. In 14 games with the Tigers, Stairs batted .244 with two home runs and 8 RBI. Since he was acquired after August 31, the deadline for play-off eligible players, he was unable to play for the Tigers during the playoffs. The Tigers went on to win the AL Pennant and lost in the World Series to the St. Louis Cardinals. He did not re-sign with the Tigers following the season.

Toronto Blue Jays

On December 7, 2006, Stairs and the Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a one-year minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training. He made the team and saw significant playing time as the fourth outfielder, replacing Lyle Overbay at first base during Overbay's time on the DL. The 2007 season rejuvenated Stairs' career, due to increased playing time following injuries to Reed Johnson and Overbay. Unexpectedly playing every day, he performed well above expectations, providing consistency at the plate and a valuable veteran presence in the Toronto dugout; team manager John Gibbons publicly stated, "I don't know where we'd be without him." As of September 4, Stairs had the highest slugging average on the Jays at .606 and the highest batting average at .312.

On August 8, 2007, Stairs became the first Toronto Blue Jays player to hit five consecutive doubles in five at-bats, and the first Major Leaguer to double in five straight at-bats in fourteen years since Charles Johnson accomplished the feat in 1993. As of September 8, 2007, Stairs was playing well for the Blue Jays, with a team-leading .315 average on the season and a .989 OPS. He finished the season batting .289 with 21 home runs and 64 RBIs—good numbers for a 39-year-old with only about 400 at bats in the year.

On November 2, 2007, Stairs and the Blue Jays agreed on a two-year, $3.25 million contract, which included a $1.25 million signing bonus and a $1 million base salary in each of the two seasons. With performance bonuses, Stairs could make as much as $3.5 million based on plate appearances.

Though his age and increasingly poor speed earned him a reputation as a defensive liability in the outfield, he still possessed a strong throwing arm, and was considered a perfectly capable fielder at first. In 2008, Stairs initially platooned in left field with Shannon Stewart; however, upon the club's release of Frank Thomas on April 20 Stairs became the everyday DH for the ball club, although was later designated for assignment on August 28, 2008.

Philadelphia Phillies

On August 30, 2008, Stairs was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies for Fabio Castro.

Stairs hit his first career postseason home run on October 13, 2008, in Game 4 of the 2008 National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers off Jonathan Broxton, allowing the Phillies to take the lead and win the game.

He won the first World Series ring of his 16-year career on October 29, 2008, when the Phillies won the series against the Rays, four games to one. On April 12, 2009, Stairs' game-winning home run against the Colorado Rockies was the last home run called by broadcaster Harry Kalas, who died unexpectedly less than 24 hours later.

Stairs faced Broxton again in the ninth inning of Game 4 of the 2009 NLCS rematch between the Phillies and Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Broxton pitched around Stairs, walking him on four pitches. The Phillies won the game later in the inning on a walk-off double by Jimmy Rollins, on which Stairs' pinch runner Eric Bruntlett scored. In the 2009 season, he once again made it to the World Series, but the Phillies lost to the New York Yankees in six games.

During his time with the team, T-shirts were marketed which touched on Stairs' pinch-hitting prowess in clutch situations. They used a warning which can be found in many elevators: "In Case of Emergency, Use Stairs."

San Diego Padres

Stairs batting for the San Diego Padres in 2010.

On January 23, 2010, Stairs agreed to a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres with an invite to spring training hoping to crack their 25-man roster out of spring as a left-handed bat off the bench. During the offseason, he lost nearly 40 pounds, which helped him make the team out of spring training. When he joined the Padres, he became the only player in MLB history to play for all four of the 1969 expansion teams (the Padres, Royals, Expos, and Brewers). On August 21, Stairs hit his 21st home run as a pinch hitter to break a tie with Cliff Johnson for the Major League record.

Washington Nationals

On December 14, 2010, the Washington Nationals signed Stairs to a non-guaranteed minor league contract, which included an invitation to Major League Spring training. After spring training, he was placed on the 25-man roster and went north with the team. Mostly used as a pinch hitter, with four appearances at first base, in 65 at-bats he had 10 hits and two RBIs. He was designated for assignment on July 27, 2011. He was released on August 1 and announced his retirement two days later.

Coaching career

On November 2, 2016, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the Philadelphia Phillies.

On October 30, 2017, Stairs was hired as the hitting coach for the San Diego Padres. He was fired after one season.

In 2024, Stairs was hired to the Okotoks Dawgs Baseball Club as the program’s Academy Coaching Staff as the Dawgs Hitting Coordinator.

Career perspective

Noted baseball analysts Bill James and Joe Posnanski have theorized that Stairs is probably a far more talented hitter than his career stats suggest. Stairs didn't have 500 plate appearances until age 30, at which point he recorded 100 RBI seasons and an adjusted OPS of over 130 two years in a row—and never exceeded 500 plate appearances again after 3 straight seasons of 500 or more from 1998-2000. James contends, "You put him in the right park, right position early in his career ... he's going to hit a LOT of bombs." Possibly, Posnanski contends, enough to have been worthy of Hall of Fame consideration.

Other work and personal life

In January 2012, Stairs accepted a job with the NESN sports news station to work as a Boston Red Sox studio analyst. On February 11, 2014, the Phillies announced that Stairs and fellow former-Phillie Jamie Moyer would join the team's television broadcasting crew as color analysts, following the dismissal of Gary Matthews and Chris Wheeler. Stairs worked with play-by-play commentator Tom McCarthy and in-game reporter Gregg Murphy, and occasionally with Ben Davis, before moving to the Phillies' dugout as the team's hitting coach starting with the 2017 season.

He is married to Lisa Astle of Fredericton with whom he has three daughters, Nicole, Alicia and Chandler. He lives in Fredericton and was named coach of the Fredericton High School ice hockey team in 2012, a job he had often referred to as his dream.

Stairs was inducted into the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame in June 2012.

On June 15, 2015, Stairs was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

In November 2016, Stairs was among those nominated and placed on the 2017 ballot for the Baseball Hall of Fame; he did not receive enough votes to appear on future ballots.

See also

References

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External links

Awards and achievements
Preceded byJamie Moyer Oldest Player in the
National League
2011 		Succeeded byJamie Moyer
Eastern League Most Valuable Player
Canada roster – 2006 World Baseball Classic
Philadelphia Phillies 2008 World Series champions
4 Eric Bruntlett
5 Pat Burrell
6 Ryan Howard
7 Pedro Feliz
8 Shane Victorino
10 Geoff Jenkins
11 Jimmy Rollins
12 Matt Stairs
16 J. C. Romero
19 Greg Dobbs
26 Chase Utley
27 Chris Coste
28 Jayson Werth
35 Cole Hamels (NLCS and World Series MVP)
37 Chad Durbin
39 Brett Myers
43 J. A. Happ
47 Scott Eyre
50 Jamie Moyer
51 Carlos Ruiz
54 Brad Lidge
55 Clay Condrey
56 Joe Blanton
63 Ryan Madson
99 So Taguchi
Manager 41 Charlie Manuel
Third Base Coach 2 Steve Smith
First Base Coach 15 Davey Lopes
Catching Instructor 17 Mick Billmeyer
Bench Coach 22 Jimy Williams
Hitting Coach 25 Milt Thompson
Interim Bullpen Coach 29 Roly de Armas
Pitching Coach 30 Rich Dubee
Bullpen Coach 31 Ramon Henderson
General Manager Pat Gillick
Regular season
National League Division Series
National League Championship Series
Canada roster – 2009 World Baseball Classic
Members of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame
Players, managers,
and coaches
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