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Albert Belle

Drafted To The Big Leagues

Belle finally got his break after his junior year in college in the second round of the 1987 draft. Several teams refused to consider Belle in any round based on his temperament, but the Cleveland Indians picked him up. He started with the Indians' minors team, and played his first major league game in July 1989. That game was a stunning success for Belle: he got a hit at his first at-bat, and hit a grand slam against the Yankees. Belle did have some trouble during those first years with the Indians, though, and was demoted to the minors a few times following outbursts.

Chronology

1966	Born August 25 in Shreveport, LA
1984	Begins playing for Louisiana State University
1987	Benched for College World Series for attacking spectator
1987	Drafted by Cleveland Indians in second round
1989	Plays first major-league game in July
1990	Checks into Cleveland Clinic for drinking problem
1991	Suspended for throwing ball at fan
1992	First full season in major leagues
1994	Suspended after being charged with using a corked bat
1995	Sets record as first major leaguer to have 50 home runs and 50 RBIs in one season
1995	Leads Indians to the World Series
1995	Lashes out at the media before game, fined $50,000
1995	Starts in All-Star game
1996	Signs 5-year, $55 million contract with Chicago White Sox
1997	Faces civil suit for gambling on football and basketball
1998	Signs 5-year, $65 million contract with Baltimore Orioles
2001	Permanently injures hip

Additional topics

Famous Sports StarsBaseballAlbert Belle Biography - "joey Belle", Drafted To The Big Leagues, Chronology, "snapper", Outstanding Hitter, Career Statistics - CONTACT INFORMATION