Career Timeline of Rafael Furcal: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Rafael Furcal built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Rafael Furcal is a former professional baseball shortstop from the Dominican Republic who played in MLB for the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Miami Marlins. Known for his speed and defensive skills, Furcal was a key player for several teams throughout his career. His most notable achievement was winning the 2011 World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals, solidifying his place in baseball history.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

November 9, 1996: Signed by the Atlanta Braves

On November 9, 1996, Rafael Furcal was signed as an amateur free agent by the Atlanta Braves for $5,000 after being scouted at a tryout in Santo Domingo. He had been planning to attend engineering school.

1997: Started professional baseball career

In 1997, Rafael Furcal began his professional baseball career as a second baseman with the Gulf Coast Braves.

1999: Minor League Success

In 1999, Rafael Furcal switched to shortstop and played for the Macon Braves, hitting .337 with 73 stolen bases. He was later transferred to Myrtle Beach, hitting .293. He led minor league baseball with 96 steals and earned several awards, including Baseball America's first team All-Star and Braves Minor League Player of the Year.

April 4, 2000: MLB Debut

On April 4, 2000, Rafael Furcal made his Major League Baseball debut for the Atlanta Braves against the Colorado Rockies, recording 2 hits in 4 at-bats. His first hit was against Rockies pitcher Rolando Arrojo.

2002: Revealed True Age and Triples Record

At the start of the 2002 season, the Braves learned that Rafael Furcal was 23, not 21 as he had claimed. On April 21, 2002, he tied a modern Major League record with three triples in a game against Florida.

August 10, 2003: Unassisted Triple Play

On August 10, 2003, Rafael Furcal completed an unassisted triple play for the Braves against the St. Louis Cardinals. He caught Woody Williams' liner, stepped on second base, and tagged Orlando Palmeiro.

2003: All-Star Selection

In 2003, Rafael Furcal was selected as a reserve for the National League All-Star Team.

December 7, 2005: Signed with the Dodgers

On December 7, 2005, Rafael Furcal signed a three-year, $39 million free agent contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

May 2007: Four Hits in Three Consecutive Games

In May 2007, Rafael Furcal became one of only six Major League players to get four hits in each of three consecutive games.

December 19, 2008: Re-signed with the Dodgers

On December 19, 2008, after speculation of returning to the Braves, Rafael Furcal signed a three-year, $30 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

2008: Donated Fire Truck

In 2008, when Rafael Furcal re-signed with the Dodgers, he arranged for the Los Angeles Fire Department to donate a fire truck to his hometown, Loma de Cabrera, which previously lacked a fire department.