Luke Scott

Luke Scott – Life, Career, and Memorable Moments

Learn about Luke Scott (born June 25, 1978) — former American MLB outfielder/designated hitter. Explore his early life, baseball journey, achievements, controversies, and legacy.

Introduction

Luke Brandon Scott is a former American professional baseball player, known primarily for his power hitting and roles as an outfielder/designated hitter. Born on June 25, 1978, he played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 2005 through 2013, and also briefly in the KBO (Korea Baseball Organization). His career includes standout seasons with the Baltimore Orioles and moments of both triumph and controversy.

Early Life and Education

Luke Scott was born in De Leon Springs, Florida. DeLand High School in DeLand, Florida, where he was a strong hitter — batting averages of around .460 and .420 in his junior and senior years, respectively.

After high school, he went on to Oklahoma State University, where he played collegiate baseball and earned All-Big 12 Conference honors. Cape Cod Baseball League with the Falmouth Commodores and in the Valley Baseball League.

He was first drafted in 2000 by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (45th round) but did not sign.

Professional Baseball Career

Minor Leagues & MLB Debut

Scott began his professional career in the Indians’ farm system. MLB debut on April 5, 2005, for the Houston Astros.

Houston Astros (2005–2007)

• In his rookie years, Scott showed flashes of power.

• In 2006, he produced a strong performance: batting average of .336, on-base percentage of .426, slugging .621.

• He also became the first Astros rookie to hit for the “unnatural cycle” (home run, triple, double, and single in that order) in a game on July 28, 2006.

Baltimore Orioles (2008–2011)

Scott was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for the 2008 season.

• 2008 was a solid season: he played 148 games, batting .257 with 23 home runs and 65 RBIs.

• In July 2009, he had a career-high 7 RBIs in a game (3-for-4 with single, triple, and home run).

• In 2010, he was named Most Valuable Oriole for his contributions that season.

• However, in 2011 his performance dipped: batting .220 with 9 home runs in 64 games.

Tampa Bay Rays & Later Moves (2012–2015)

• In 2012, Scott signed with the Tampa Bay Rays (one-year deal with a player option).

• In 2013, he dealt with injuries (calf strain, back spasms) that limited his play.

• After 2013, he went overseas: in 2014 signed with SK Wyverns in KBO, although he was cut midseason after a dispute with the coach.

• In 2015, he played briefly in Mexican League with Pericos de Puebla, then signed a minor league deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, before being released.

Playing Style & Statistics

• Batting / Throwing: Bats left, throws right.

• Height / Weight: 6 ft 0 in, 220 lbs approximately.

• Career MLB stats:
    • Batting average: .258   • Home runs: 135   • Runs batted in (RBIs): 436

Scott was known as a power hitter, often deployed as a designated hitter (DH) rather than full-time outfielder.

Controversies & Personal Views

Luke Scott has made headlines not only for baseball, but for outspoken views, particularly on political and social topics:

• He has been a vocal gun rights advocate, making statements such as: “Gun control means control. It means control for the government…”

• In 2010, during the controversy about President Obama’s birth certificate, Scott publicly expressed skepticism, saying Obama had “dodged questions” about his origins.

• He is a hunting and firearms enthusiast.

These positions have attracted both criticism and support, reflecting Scott’s willingness to speak his mind off the field.

Legacy & Impact

Luke Scott’s career is significant in several respects:

• He is remembered as a solid power hitter who delivered several strong seasons, especially with the Orioles.

• His example shows how players can extend careers via the DH role when fielding becomes limiting.

• His public persona—unafraid to voice controversial opinions—makes him stand out among athletes who often avoid political discussion.

• Though not a Hall of Fame name, his career is a model of perseverance, adaptation, and assertiveness.