50 Facts About Charlie Blackmon

Early Life and Education

Charlie Blackmon's journey to MLB stardom began in Suwanee, Georgia. His early years were marked by a blend of academic and athletic excellence.

1. Blackmon was raised in Suwanee, Georgia, and attended North Gwinnett High School.
2. He excelled in baseball, basketball, and football during his high school years.
3. He was named Academic Player of the Year three times in high school.

College Baseball and Draft

Blackmon's college career was pivotal in shaping his future in baseball. His transition from pitcher to outfielder set the stage for his professional journey.

4. Blackmon enrolled at Young Harris College and played as a pitcher for two years.
5. During his time at Young Harris, he won 15 games and had 138 strikeouts in 127 innings.
6. In 2005, he played collegiate summer baseball in the Cape Cod Baseball League for the Cotuit Kettleers.
7. After his freshman season, he received a scholarship to Georgia Tech but returned to Young Harris for his sophomore season.
8. He transferred to Georgia Tech in the fall of 2006.
9. Blackmon excelled academically at Georgia Tech, receiving various honors including being named to the 2008 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America Second Team.
10. He graduated from Georgia Tech in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in finance.
11. Blackmon was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the second round of the 2008 amateur draft with the 72nd overall pick.

Minor League Career

Before making it to the majors, Blackmon honed his skills in the Rockies' minor league system, where he showcased his potential.

12. Blackmon spent more than five years in the Rockies' minor league system.
13. His minor league career was marked by mixed results, but he showed promise with solid plate skills and speed.

MLB Debut and Early Career

Blackmon's MLB debut was a significant milestone. His early years in the majors were a mix of achievements and challenges.

14. The Colorado Rockies called Blackmon up to the majors for the first time on June 6, 2011.
15. He recorded his first MLB hit on June 8, 2011, at Petco Park against Dustin Moseley of the San Diego Padres.
16. Blackmon recorded his first MLB RBI on June 11, 2011, against Matt Guerrier of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
17. He hit his first MLB home run on July 1, 2011 — his 25th birthday — in a pinch-hit at-bat against Joakim Soria.
18. In his initial stint with the Rockies, Blackmon played in 27 games and finished with a .255 batting average.
19. He suffered an injury that ended his season early.

Breakout Season and All-Star Selections

Blackmon's breakout season in 2014 marked his emergence as a key player for the Rockies. His consistent performance earned him multiple All-Star selections.

20. After the Rockies traded Dexter Fowler to the Houston Astros, Blackmon won the center field job in 2014.
21. In the 2014 season, Blackmon notched six hits from the leadoff spot in the Rockies' home opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
22. He was named to the roster as a reserve for the National League in the 2014 MLB All-Star Game.
23. In his first full season in the majors, Blackmon finished with a .288 batting average, 28 stolen bases, and 19 home runs.
24. He stole a career-high 43 bases in 2015 while maintaining a high batting average.
25. Blackmon won his first NL Player of the Month Award for May 2017.
26. He has won two Silver Slugger Awards, recognizing his excellence as a hitter in the National League.
27. In 2017, Blackmon became the National League batting champion with a .331 batting average.
28. Blackmon has been selected as an All-Star four times.

Career Milestones and Leadership

Blackmon's career is filled with significant milestones. His leadership and consistency have made him a cornerstone of the Rockies.

29. Blackmon reached 10 years of MLB service in June 2022.
30. His teammates recognized this achievement with speeches, hugs, and a 10-year-old bottle of whisky.
31. Despite changes in the Rockies' roster, Blackmon has remained a stable presence in the lineup and clubhouse.
32. He is first on the Rockies' career list with 54 triples and second to Todd Helton in hits, total bases, and games played.
33. Blackmon's walk-up song is "Your Love" by The Outfield.
34. Outside of baseball, Blackmon enjoys fishing and can juggle.
35. He is known for his professionalism and stability.
36. Blackmon has spoken highly of his time with Todd Helton, who served as a mentor.
37. He has played with several successful players, including Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez.
38. Blackmon reflected on his decision to become a hitter instead of a pitcher, noting that hitting is significantly more challenging and rewarding.

Injuries and Resilience

Blackmon's career has not been without its challenges. Injuries have tested his resilience, but he has always bounced back stronger.

39. Blackmon has faced several injuries, including a broken left foot in 2011 and turf toe in 2012.
40. Despite being cut from the team in Spring Training at age 26, Blackmon persevered and eventually made the Rockies' roster.

Legacy and Community Involvement

Blackmon's impact extends beyond his on-field performance. His involvement in the community and his legacy in Colorado are significant.

41. Blackmon's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics.
42. He has appeared in several commercials, including ones for UCHealth.
43. Blackmon has been involved in various community activities.
44. His ability to read pitches and maintain a high batting average is a testament to his high baseball IQ.
45. Blackmon has improved his plate discipline over the years.
46. Despite his lack of premium bat speed, Blackmon has shown the ability to pull the ball more often.
47. His above-average speed and sound instincts on base have made him a valuable asset in the outfield.
48. As of 2024, Blackmon's MLB career statistics include a .293 batting average, 226 home runs, 797 RBIs, and 148 stolen bases.
49. In the minor leagues, Blackmon has a .308 batting average, 39 home runs, 284 RBIs, and 94 stolen bases.
50. Blackmon's consistency over the years has been a key factor in his success.

Celebrating Charlie Blackmon's Legacy

Charlie Blackmon, known as "Chuck Nazty," has left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball. From his early days in Suwanee, Georgia, to becoming a cornerstone of the Colorado Rockies, Blackmon's journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and dedication. With four All-Star selections, two Silver Slugger Awards, and a National League batting title, his achievements speak volumes. Beyond stats, Blackmon's leadership, professionalism, and community involvement have made him a beloved figure in Colorado and beyond. His ability to balance power, speed, and plate discipline sets him apart. As he continues to inspire both teammates and fans, Blackmon's legacy in baseball remains strong. Whether it's his memorable walk-up song or his consistent performance, Charlie Blackmon's story is one of perseverance and excellence. Here's to celebrating a true baseball legend.