Curtis Granderson's Career in Pictures

Curtis Granderson's Career in Pictures

John Iacono/SI

Curtis Granderson hit 102 home runs in six seasons with the Detroit Tigers before joining the defending world champion New York Yankees for 2010.

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Granderson's prowess at the plate is matched by his great skill in centerfield, where his range has helped him make astonishing plays. He has a .993 career fielding percentage, and 28 career outfield assists.

Al Tielemans/SI

In 2007, Granderson became just the third player in baseball history to finish with at least 20 doubles, 20 triples, 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a single season, making his Tiger teammates very happy.

David Bergman/SI

For Granderson, a Chicago-area kid who played his college ball at University of Illinois-Chicago, meeting fellow Chicagoan and 44th President Barack Obama in 2009 was a thrill.

Chuck Solomon/SI

In 2009, Granderson was selected to the United States' roster for the World Baseball Classic, where he shared the spotlight with other Major League stars, like Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers.

John Iacono/SI

Before Granderson was scoring runs for the big league's biggest team, he was a high school standout in suburban Chicago.

Anthony J. Causi/Icon SMI

After four consecutive seasons in which he played at least 140 games, Granderson injured his groin just 23 games into the 2010 season, sidelining him for almost a month.

Robert Beck/SI

Known for his speed and nifty glove work in the field, Granderson has plenty of highlight reel material to his name.

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Now 29, Granderson's positive attitude and bright smile have helped him dismiss criticism throughout his career.

John Iacono/SI

It's no surprise Granderson is a favorite anywhere he goes -- his small-ball attitude and goofy personality make it easy for young fans to relate.

Chuck Solomon/SI

Granderson's speed on the basepaths makes him a nightmare for opposing pitchers and catchers. The speedster has 71 career stolen bases.

Andy Altenburger/Icon SMI

A renaissance man with universal appeal, Granderson has already parlayed his looks and charisma into appearances on TBS' playoff baseball coverage and a role as an ambassador for MLB International.