History of Albert Almora in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 28, 2024

Reinaldo Albert Almora Jr. is an American professional baseball player known for his role as a center fielder. Currently a free agent, Almora has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) with teams including the Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and Cincinnati Reds. His career in the MLB highlights his skills on the field and contributions to the teams he has been a part of.

April 16, 1994: Birth of Reinaldo Albert Almora Jr.

Reinaldo Albert Almora Jr. was born on April 16, 1994. He would later become an American professional baseball center fielder.

2011: Named USA Baseball's Athlete of the Year

In 2011, Albert Almora was recognized as USA Baseball's athlete of the year after leading the 18 and under team to a 9–0 record and earning the tournament MVP. He also tied a record by playing on six national teams while in high school, winning the USA Baseball Richard W. 'Dick' Case Player of the Year Award. This year marked a significant milestone in his early career.

2012: Played for AZL Cubs and Boise Hawks

In 2012, Albert Almora played for both the AZL Cubs and Boise Hawks, achieving a batting average of .321 with two home runs and 19 RBIs in 33 games, marking an impressive start to his professional career.

2012: Drafted by the Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs selected Albert Almora in the first round of the 2012 MLB draft, with the sixth overall pick. He signed with the Cubs, receiving a $3.9 million signing bonus. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball career.

2013: Played for Kane County Cougars

During the 2013 season, Albert Almora played for the Kane County Cougars, finishing with a .329 batting average in 61 games. He missed part of the season due to injury but was later assigned to the Arizona Fall League for additional experience.

2013: Ranked as a Top Prospect

In 2013, Albert Almora was ranked by MLB.com as the second-best prospect in the Chicago Cubs organization and the 39th overall in baseball. This ranking highlighted his potential and promise in the major leagues.

2014: Played for Daytona Cubs and Tennessee Smokies

In 2014, Albert Almora played for the Daytona Cubs and Tennessee Smokies, compiling a .270/.291/.392 slash line with nine home runs and 60 RBIs over 125 games, continuing his progression in the minor leagues.

2015: Returned to Tennessee Smokies

In 2015, Albert Almora spent the season with the Tennessee Smokies, achieving a batting average of .272 with six home runs and 46 RBIs in 106 games, further establishing his position in minor league baseball.

June 7, 2016: Promoted to Chicago Cubs

Albert Almora was promoted to the Chicago Cubs on June 7, 2016, following Jorge Soler's placement on the disabled list, marking his entry into Major League Baseball.

June 8, 2016: First MLB Start and Key Defensive Play

On June 8, 2016, Albert Almora made his first MLB start in left field against the Philadelphia Phillies. During the game, he quickly demonstrated his defensive prowess by throwing out a runner at home to complete a double play, and also earned his first major league hit the following day.

July 21, 2016: Marriage to Krystal Gregorio

Albert Almora married Krystal Gregorio, a former dancer for the Philadelphia 76ers and Flyers, on July 21, 2016, marking a significant personal milestone.

August 2016: Birth of First Child

In August 2016, Albert Almora and his wife Krystal welcomed their first child, a son, marking a joyous occasion in their family life.

November 2, 2016: Key Play in World Series Game 7

On November 2, 2016, during Game 7 of the World Series, Albert Almora made a pivotal baserunning play by tagging up from first to second on a deep fly ball, helping the Cubs score a crucial run. His efforts contributed to the Cubs' historic 8-7 victory, securing their first World Series win since 1908.

2016: Started Season with Iowa Cubs

Albert Almora began the 2016 season playing for the Iowa Cubs, where he was batting .318 across 54 games before being called up to the majors.

2018: Season Highlights and Wild Card Game

In 2018, Albert Almora had a strong season, batting .286 with five home runs and 41 RBIs over 152 games. Notably, he made three impressive leaping catches in a game against the Rockies and also was the final out in the 2018 NL Wild Card Game, which the Cubs lost to Colorado in a 13-inning match.

2019: Opened Season on Cubs' Roster

Albert Almora started the 2019 baseball season on the Chicago Cubs' 25-man roster, continuing his tenure with the team.

2020: Optioned to Alternate Training Site

In 2020, Albert Almora started the season on the Chicago Cubs' 26-man Opening Day roster, platooning with Ian Happ. However, after struggling with a .167 batting average, he was optioned to the alternate training site when the Cubs acquired Cameron Maybin. Later in the year, Almora was non-tendered by the Cubs on December 2.

February 10, 2021: Signed with New York Mets

On February 10, 2021, Albert Almora signed a one-year contract with the New York Mets, marking a new chapter in his MLB career.

May 12, 2021: Injury and List Placement

Albert Almora was placed on the ten-day injured list on May 12, 2021, after colliding with the outfield wall at Citi Field. This injury impacted his playing time with the Mets that season.

September 26, 2021: Designated for Assignment

On September 26, 2021, Albert Almora was designated for assignment by the New York Mets, eventually electing free agency on October 7, concluding his stint with the team.

March 20, 2022: Signed with Cincinnati Reds

Albert Almora signed a minor-league contract with the Cincinnati Reds on March 20, 2022, with an invitation to spring training, aiming to return to the major leagues.

May 4, 2022: Selected to Active Roster

On May 4, 2022, Albert Almora was promoted to the Cincinnati Reds' active roster, marking his return to major league play.

February 23, 2024: Signed with Arizona Diamondbacks

On February 23, 2024, Albert Almora signed a minor league contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, looking to make a comeback in professional baseball.