Junius H Rose High School Alumni
Greenville, North Carolina (NC)
Kelly Heath
MLB player[8]
What is Kelly Heath known for?
Kelly Mark Heath, born on September 4, 1957 in Plattsburgh, New York, is a well-known figure in the realm of professional baseball. Recognized as a second baseman, Heath's career journey took him to the heights of Major League Baseball (MLB) where he had a stint with the Kansas City Royals in 1982. His MLB debut and final appearance both took place on April 20, 1982.
Before his transition to the major leagues, Heath had a successful run at minor league baseball, spanning over fourteen years. Post his playing career, Heath transitioned into scouting, lending his expertise initially to the Oakland Athletics and the Cincinnati Reds, before returning to the Royals.
Kelly Heath's early life saw him attending Louisburg College, a junior college where he showcased his baseball prowess and was named to the JUCO All-Tournament Team in 1977. Following this achievement, he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the seventh round of the 1977 Major League Baseball Draft.
Although his time in the major leagues was brief, Heath's career in minor league baseball was significant. Post his MLB appearance in 1982, he continued to shine in the minor leagues. In 1983, he led the Omaha Royals, a minor league affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, in home runs and runs batted in. Following that, he signed as a free agent with the New York Yankees organization and later played for various other teams including the Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Philadelphia Phillies.
Heath also had the opportunity to showcase his baseball skills internationally. He played for Milano in the Italian Baseball League. After retiring as a player, he took on coaching responsibilities, working with the Reading Phillies and the Martinsville Phillies among others.
With an extensive career as a player, coach, and scout, Kelly Heath's contributions to baseball have been significant and varied. He continues to influence the sport through his scouting role for the Royals, where his expertise shapes the future of the team.