Russell Branyan

Russell Branyan

Branyan with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Third baseman / First baseman / Outfielder
Born: (1975-12-19) December 19, 1975
Warner Robins, Georgia
Batted: Left Threw: Right
MLB debut
September 26, 1998, for the Cleveland Indians
Last appearance
September 26, 2011, for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
MLB statistics
Batting average .232
Home runs 194
Runs batted in 467
Teams

Russell Oles Branyan (born December 19, 1975) is an American former professional baseball first baseman. He throws right-handed, bats left-handed, and primarily played first base, but was capable of playing third base and the outfield. Branyan began his professional career in the Cleveland Indians minor league system. His major league debut was with the Indians on September 26, 1998. He has played for the Cleveland Indians (two occasions), Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers (two occasions), Tampa Bay Devil Rays, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, the Seattle Mariners (two occasions), Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Dubbed "Russell The Muscle", for his ability to hit long-distance home runs[1] Branyan does not typically hit for a high batting average and strikes out frequently.[1][2] However, he consistently draws walks and hits home runs.[1] Branyan has been given the nickname 3TO, which stands for three true outcomes, for his propensity to either draw a walk, strike out, or hit a home run.[3] One of the three outcomes occurred in 50.5% of his plate appearances during his major-league career. Because of this, players such as Jack Cust have drawn comparisons to Branyan.[4]

Baseball career

High school

Branyan was a 1994 graduate from Stratford Academy.[5] His high school fostered such athletic talent like professional football player Le Kevin Smith and professional golfer Peter Persons.[6] Branyan was selected as an All-Georgia State player in both 1993 and 1994.[7] He was drafted out of Stratford Academy in the 1994 Major League Baseball draft by the Cleveland Indians in the seventh round (185th pick overall).[8]

Cleveland Indians

Branyan began his professional career with the rookie-level Burlington Indians of the Appalachian League in 1994. He batted .211 with 10 doubles, five home runs and 13 RBIs in 55 games. The next two seasons, 1995 and 1996, Branyan played with the Class-A Columbus RedStixx of the South Atlantic League. He was named the South Atlantic League Most Valuable Player in 1996 after he set a league record for most home runs in a single season, with 40.[9][10] The previous record was held by Mike Simms who hit 39 home runs in 1987.[10] He was second in home runs and ninth in RBIs (with 106) in all of minor league baseball in 1996.[9] He was named the Indians' 1996 Minor League Player of the Year (receiving the "Lou Boudreau Award").[11][12]

In 1997, with both the Class-A Advanced Kinston Indians and the Double-A Akron Aeros, he led all minor league baseball in home runs with 39.[9] Russell Branyan was once considered a top prospect in the Cleveland Indians organization, being compared to Mark McGwire.[13] In 1998 a strained tendon in his right wrist kept him on the disabled list for most of the season.[14] In 1999 for the Bisons, he batted .208 and hit 30 home runs.

Branyan was first called up to the Cleveland Indians in 1998. In his major league debut on September 26, 1998, Branyan went 0-for-4. The next season, 1999, Branyan played 11 games with Cleveland, batting .211 with one home run and six RBIs. Branyan got his first hit (also his first home run) on July 23, 1999 off of New York Yankees' pitcher David Cone.[15] In 2001, Branyan continued his struggles, hitting .238 with 16 homers. After the 1999 season, Baseball America named Branyan as the Indians top prospect.[16] On June 1, 2000 he hit two home runs in one game, the first two home run game of his career.[17] In 2001, an injury to Travis Fryman moved Branyan to third for a good part of the season. He again had a poor average, batting .232, with 20 home runs. In 2002, manager Charlie Manuel wanted Branyan to succeed Fryman full-time, though he was primarily used as a utility player throughout the season.[18] Manuel stated that Branyan should be an everyday player saying, "He's definitely not a guy you want sitting on the bench, because of the timing in his swing."[19] In spring training, Branyan was promised that he would be an everyday player.[20] He hit .205 with just 8 homers before he was traded to Cincinnati for prospect Ben Broussard.[21][22]

Cincinnati Reds

Branyan called the trade to Cincinnati, "a clean slate", stating he had been branded as a home run or strikeout player in Cleveland.[23] He improved his numbers after the trade, but they still remained poor as he played left field opposed to his normal position at third base that was occupied by Aaron Boone.[24] On August 4, 2002, Branyan hit three home runs, two off of Bobby J. Jones and one off of Mike Holtz as the Reds beat the San Diego Padres.[25][26] He also hit two home runs on September 27, both off Montreal Expos' pitcher Javier Vázquez.[27] He finished the 2002 season to hit a combined .228 with 24 home runs and 151 strikeouts between the Indians and Reds. Branyan was also praised for his improved fielding during his transition to the outfield.[28] At season's end, Branyan played winter ball in the Dominican Republic where on November 18, he injured his shoulder.[29] An examination with the team's physician discovered serious damage, and Branyan underwent arthroscopic surgery on this shoulder on December 3.[30]

Branyan suffered through an injury-plagued season in 2003, appearing in 74 games, including 42 starts, for the Reds. He began the season on the disabled list, recovering from arthroscopic surgery. Branyan was reinstated from the disabled list on May 29. Branyan's shoulder was said to be at less than 100 percent but the Reds reinstated him despite his preference to undergo more rehab.[31] On June 25, Branyan was fined an undisclosed amount after an in game incident against the Chicago Cubs. During the seventh-inning of that game, pitcher Paul Wilson hit outfielder Moisés Alou with a pitch, and during the bottom of the inning Cubs' pitcher Kyle Farnsworth threw inside on Wilson during his at-bat which lead to a fight between Farnsworth and Wilson. Branyan, who was in the dugout, had to be restrained by teammates after a verbal altercation with Cubs' first baseman Eric Karros during the fight between the two pitchers.[32] His home run on June 7, against Toronto Blue Jays' pitcher Jeff Tam was his first of the season.[33] It was also 100th home run hit at the Great American Ball Park.[33] His pinch-hit grand slam off Brooks Kieschnick on July 21 against Milwaukee was his first career pinch-hit home run and third career grand slam.[34] He returned to the disabled list on August 13 with a right ankle sprain he obtained while sliding into the wall chasing a foul ball on hit by San Francisco Giants' second baseman Ray Durham on August 1.[35] After returning from the disabled list on August 28, he started 27 of the Reds' final 29 games of the season.[33] Branyan finished the season with a .216 average, 12 doubles, nine home runs and 26 RBIs. His contract was not renewed at the end of the season.[36]

Atlanta Braves and Cleveland Indians

On January 21, 2004 Branyan signed a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training with the Atlanta Braves.[37][38] On March 25, Branyan was cut from spring training and assigned to the minor league camp.[39] He began the 2004 season with the Richmond Braves, the Triple-A affiliate of the Braves. He was traded to the Cleveland Indians for a player to be named later and assigned to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons on April 25.[40]

Milwaukee Brewers

2004: Purchase from Cleveland

Branyan was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers on July 26, 2004 from Buffalo for future cash considerations.[41][42] To make room for Branyan, the Brewers designated outfielder Chris Magruder for assignment.[43] He made' his Brewers debut in a ninth inning pinch-hit appearance that evening. About the trade, Branyan said this,

“ Step one is getting back to the big leagues. Step two is getting back in the lineup...It was fun down in Buffalo, but the opportunity to be back in the big leagues – I made a lot of improvements to my game. ”
— Russell Branyan, signonsandiego.com: July 29, 2004.[44]

On July 27, Branyan hit the longest home run in Miller Park history off Chicago Cubs' pitcher Greg Maddux.[45] The ball went an estimated 480-feet.[45] On August 18, Branyan hit two home runs against the Chicago Cubs and drove in all five runs for the Brewers in a loss.[46] Branyan went 3-for-4 in his second multi-home run game of season (ninth of his career) on September 12, against the Cincinnati Reds.[47] Branyan hit .279 with 26 homers and 79 RBIs in 93 games at the Triple-A level in 2004, and posted a .234 batting average with 11 homers, and 27 RBIs in 51 games with the Brewers. He hit six home runs in his first 14 games with Milwaukee. He played 44 games at third base (40 starts), and two games at first base (1 start). On December 21, the Brewers resigned Branyan, avoiding salary arbitration.[48][49]

2005: Return and success

Branyan returned to the Brewers in 2005 and went to spring training competing with Wes Helms for the starting spot at third base.[50] He missed a month of the season, from June 2 to July 4, with a fractured middle finger on his left hand.[51] Branyan went 5-for-17 in six rehab games with the Triple-A Nashville Sounds.[51] After Branyan was activated from the disabled list, the Brewers optioned Prince Fielder to the minor leagues to make room for Branyan on the major league roster.[51] Though he was off the disabled list, Branyan was still bothered by injuries throughout the rest of the season.[52][53][54] By the end of the 2005 season, Branyan played 59 games at third base, 5 at first base and 3 in left field. On the offensive side, Branyan batted .257 with 11 doubles, 12 home runs and 31 RBIs.

Branyan expressed interest in returning to the Brewers in 2006.[55] He was re-signed by the Brewers on December 20, 2005[56] but after they acquired third baseman Corey Koskie from the Toronto Blue Jays, Branyan was designated for assignment.[57][58] Branyan cleared waivers on January 18, and was released by the Brewers.[59]

Tampa Bay Devil Rays

Branyan with the Devil Rays in 2006.

Branyan signed a minor league contract with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on January 31, 2006.[60][61] He attended spring training that year and competed for a spot on the roster as a utility player.[62] Branyan missed more than a week of spring training due to back spasms.[63] He failed to make the 25-man roster out of spring training, and was sent to the Devil Rays' Triple-A affiliate, the Durham Bulls.[64] He did not play in a game for the Bulls, however, as he was called up to Tampa Bay due to an injury to Luis Ordaz on opening day.[65] On May 21, Branyan hit a walk-off home run against Florida Marlins' pitcher Logan Kensing.[66] It was Branyan's first career walk-off home run.[67] With the Devil Rays, he spent the majority of his playing time in right field. Branyan also expressed concerns with the fact he was not an everyday starter.[68] In 64 games for the Devil Rays, Branyan batted .201 with 12 home runs, 10 doubles, and 27 RBIs.

San Diego Padres

2006: Return to the National League

On August 24, 2006, Branyan was traded to the San Diego Padres for minor league pitchers Evan Meek and Dale Thayer.[69][70] On the trade Branyan said:

“ I didn't sign over here to get traded, but to have a chance to go to the National League, I really enjoyed playing in the National League. To join a team that's in contention this late in the season, it will be real exciting. ”
— Russell Branyan, sfgate.com: August 24, 2006.[71]
Branyan with the San Diego Padres.

Branyan hit two home runs on August 29 against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The first home run in the seventh inning against Brandon Webb went an estimated 422 feet, and the second came in the ninth inning against Jorge Julio went an estimated 456 feet.[72] Branyan hit his fifth home run as a member of the Padres on September 24, against the Pittsburgh Pirates. When recorded, it was the longest in Petco Park history, going an estimated 453 feet.[73] He hit .292 for the Padres with 6 home runs, 9 RBIs, 14 runs scored and 15 walks. He compiled a .416 on-base percentage while slugging .556. He started at third base in 26 of San Diego's final 33 games and committed only 3 errors in 45 total chances. His 18 home runs overall in 2006 were the most he hit in a single season since 2002. At the end of the season it was speculated that Branyan would have a sure spot on the roster out of spring training.[74] On October 30, Branyan's $1,175,801 option was picked up by the Padres.[75][76]

2007: Struggles and release

Branyan with the San Diego Padres in 2007.

Going into spring training in 2007, newly acquired Kevin Kouzmanoff was slated for the job at third base. This left Branyan as a bench player going into the season.[77] Branyan addressed the issues stating that he just wanted to play, no matter the circumstances.[78] However, Branyan was seen as a good option if Kouzmanoff failed to produce at third base and at the plate.[79] He got off to a slow start out of spring training.[80]

Branyan was placed on the bereavement list following the death of this father-in-law on April 27. This made room for catcher Josh Bard on the roster.[81][82] He was activated on May 3 and the Padres sent Pete Laforest outright to the Triple-A Portland Beavers to make room for Branyan on the roster.[83] On May 12, in a win over the St. Louis Cardinals, Branyan hit two home runs. The first was against Kip Wells, and the second against Brian Falkenborg.[84] Branyan hit a go-ahead home run at Wrigley Field against the Chicago Cubs in a 1–0 win on June 16.[85] In 2007, Branyan batted .197 with five doubles, one triple, seven home runs and 19 RBIs in 61 games for the Padres before his release on July 28.[86] The release made room for Scott Hairston on the Padres' roster.[87][88]

Cleveland Indians and Philadelphia Phillies

On August 6, 2007, Branyan signed a minor league contract with the Cleveland Indians.[89] He played one game with their Triple-A affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons. On August 9, Branyan was placed on waivers and traded to the Philadelphia Phillies for cash considerations.[90][91] On August 14, in his first at-bat with the Phillies, Branyan hit a two-run home run against the Washington Nationals, putting the Phillies ahead in the game 3–2.[92]

St. Louis Cardinals

On August 28, Branyan was designated for assignment by the Phillies. On August 31, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals for a player to be named later.[93] During his tenure in St. Louis, Branyan filled in for Scott Rolen, the Cardinals' regular starting third baseman.[94] At the end of the season, Branyan filed for free agency.[95]

Milwaukee Brewers, second tenure

On February 20, 2008, Branyan signed a minor league contract with the Milwaukee Brewers. Branyan began the season with the Brewers' Triple-A affiliate, the Nashville Sounds. On May 25, his contract was purchased by the Brewers, and he was added to the active roster. To make room on the roster, the Brewers sent Tony Gwynn Jr. to Triple-A Nashville.[96] About the call-up, Branyan said,

Branyan covers first base on June 1, 2008 against the Astros.
“ I know how this game is, I know I could have come up and landed flat on my face, then been back in the situation I've always been in, sitting on the bench and wondering when I'm going to play again. I'm fortunate to have been able to come up swinging the bat well in Triple-A and continue it here. ”
— Russell Branyan, mlb.com: June 28, 2008[97]

Branyan began the season playing a platoon role with teammate Bill Hall.[98] Hall did not like the shared role, feeling that he should be playing full-time.[99] Branyan expressed no problem with the platoon role, but stated that he understood why Hall disliked the situation.[99] Branyan started the season earning praise from manager Ned Yost and soon saw increased playing time.[97] Later in the season, however, Branyan's playing time was decreased.[100][101]

He was placed on the 15-day disabled list on August 12 with a right oblique strain. Branyan rehabilitated at the Brewers' spring training facility, and was reinstated on September 23.[102] On May 31, shortly after his return to the majors, he hit a 465-foot home run into the "Dew Deck" in the right-field bleachers of the stadium, helping the Brewers to a 4–1 win.[9] Branyan finished the season with 12 home runs, and 20 RBIs in 132 at bats. He appeared in 50 games with the Brewers, including 35 starts; 33 at third base, and 2 at first base. He became the first player in franchise history to hit 10 home runs while playing 20 or fewer games in a season.[9] He batted .455 with two homers as a pinch hitter.[9]

Seattle Mariners

Branyan at-bat for the Mariners in 2009.

Branyan signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Mariners on December 3, 2008.[103] The Mariners gave him the starting first base job before spring training.[104] At the end of the 2009 season, Branyan was the team leader in home runs. Branyan stated one of the keys to his success with the Mariners was a vision training program with Chicago ophthalmologist Dr. Barry Seiller.[105] The exercises strengthen eye muscles and improve focus at the plate.[105] The program is one like designated hitter Edgar Martínez used when he played for the Mariners.[105] In Branyan's first at-bat of the game on August 7, he hit a home run. This was his 25th home run on the year, but it also set a new career high.[106] The previous, 24, was achieved during the 2002 season. He has also set career records in RBIs, doubles, hits, runs and total bases in the 2009 season.

Russell Branyan taking the field on July 7, 2009.

On August 9, 2009, Branyan hit a grand slam in the bottom of the sixth inning, this was his first hit in eleven at-bats and his fourth career grand slam.[107] Branyan was often placed in the number two spot in the batting order in 2009 compared to the fourth spot, where managers typically put power hitters. The reason for this was because Branyan expressed discomfort with the cleanup role because of the excessive work load.[108]

Herniated disk

Branyan was placed on the disabled list on August 30, with a herniated disk in his back. He had stated that he had been bothered by lower back spasms throughout the season.[109][110] He left the game against the Kansas City Royals after experiencing pain on a swing and underwent an MRI the next day.[111] On September 27 the Mariners' manager Don Wakamatsu acknowledged it was unlikely that Branyan would be rejoining the Mariners in 2009.[112] However, Branyan was reinstated form the disabled list on September 30 and said there might be a possibility of him playing before the end of the season.[113]

“ My goal is to get back on the field with the team, because I started the season with the ballclub as a starting player, and I want to finish that way. ”
— Russell Branyan, rottoworld.com: September 15, 2009.[114]

Branyan never played for the Mariners again in 2009 after going on the disabled list, he finished the season with a .251 batting average, 31 home runs, 21 doubles, one triple, 108 hits, 224 total bases in 116 games. On the defensive side he had a .990 fielding percentage with 10 errors (tied for most in the league for a first baseman)[115] in 116 games at first base, all starts.

2009–2010 free agency

"'I really loved it [in Seattle],' Branyan said by telephone from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he's visiting friends and working out. 'I really had a great time. It was a great situation there. I really felt comfortable. I would have loved to come back, but right now it doesn't look like that's going to happen.'"

— The Seattle Times: January 13, 2010[116]

On November 5, 2009, it was reported that Branyan had shown interest in returning for the Mariners in 2010.[117] There was no comment from Mariners' general manager Jack Zduriencik, but on the possible return, Branyan said:

“ I talked briefly with Jack [Zduriencik] at the end of the season, and he knows how passionate I am about going back to Seattle. Now, it's a matter of getting on the phone and figuring out what we can do to get me back in a Seattle uniform. ”
— Russell Branyan, mariners.com: November 5, 2009.[117]

Branyan rejected a one-year offer from the Mariners on November 10.[118] He stated that the reason for the decline was because he wanted a contract that lasted for more than one year, possibly a two or three-year contract.[118] Branyan also stated that he still wanted to return to Seattle, but would rather test the free agent market than settle for anything less than a two-year contract.[118] On January 7, 2010, the Seattle Mariners traded infielder Bill Hall for first baseman Casey Kotchman.[119] For Branyan, this meant it was unlikely the Mariners would offer him a new contract as Kotchman would be the likely candidate for the starting job at first base, vacated by Branyan.[120] On February 2, 2010, ESPN.com reported that the Florida Marlins had offered a one-year contract to Branyan.[121] On February 5, a conflicting report stated that the Marlins had not offered Branyan a contract.[122] On February 9, Foxsports.com reported that Branyan has drawn interest from both the Cleveland Indians, and the Toronto Blue Jays.[123] Joe Frisaro, writer for MLB.com, reported on February 13, that the Marlins were not interested in signing Branyan.[124] It was reported by Foxsports.com on February 16, that the Tampa Bay Rays, the Boston Red Sox, and the Cleveland Indians were interested in signing Branyan.[125] That day, the Indians offered Branyan a one-year major league contract, according to MLB.com.[125] On February 17, it was reported by Foxsports.com that the Red Sox were no longer interested in Branyan.[126]

Return to the Cleveland Indians

Branyan with the Indians in 2010.

On February 19, 2010, Branyan accepted a one-year, $2 million contract with a $5 million option for 2011 from the Cleveland Indians. Slated to be a starter on the club, he was set to begin the season on the disabled list as of March 29, 2010 [127]

Seattle Mariners, second tenure

On June 26, 2010, Branyan was traded back to Seattle for minor leaguers Ezequiel Carrera and Juan Díaz.[128] He was used as Seattle's DH through September.[129]

2011–2014

On February 16, 2011, Branyan signed a minor league contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks with an invitation to Spring training.[130] He made the Diamondbacks' Opening Day roster.[131] To clear up the three-way traffic jam at first base with Juan Miranda and Xavier Nady, Branyan was released on May 21, 2011. Micah Owings was called up to take his spot.[132]

Branyan was signed by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim on May 26, 2011.[133] Branyan signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees for the 2012 season with an invitation to spring training.[134] He was released on August 10, 2012, after playing in 33 games with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees. He batted .309 with 11 home runs and spent the greater part of the season on the DL with back issues.[135]

After not playing in 2013, Branyan started 2014 with the Toros de Tijuana of the Mexican League. He signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Indians on August 29, 2014.[136]

Personal

Branyan has three children: daughters Kylie and Quinn, and son Cash.[137] Cash was named after Johnny Cash, of whom Branyan is a fan.[138]

On January 31, 2008, Branyan was arrested for allegedly assaulting his then wife, Jill. According to police accounts, officers were called to a parking lot of a police station after an officer found Jill Branyan sitting alone in her car, crying. The couple had gone to The Cowboy restaurant in Bainbridge, Ohio and reportedly argued on the way home. At some point, Russell Branyan, who was driving, allegedly put his hand on Jill's face, causing her to have a cut lip. The force of the grab caused her to develop a swollen lip and some bleeding. When the couple entered their home, Jill's mother saw the injury and said she, Jill, and the children should leave the home for the evening and go to her house.[139][140]

Branyan entered a "not guilty" plea in Shaker Heights Municipal Court on February 5, 2008, charged with one count of domestic violence.[139] Branyan's attorney, Philip Kushner, and Pepper Pike prosecutor Jonathan D. Greenberg agreed to terms of a temporary protection order against Branyan that protected Branyan's wife and their two children by temporarily prohibiting Branyan from being within 500 feet of his wife or children among other provisions.[140]

Branyan and his wife later divorced, and on October 30, 2015, Branyan was arrested for breaking into his ex-wife's home in Tennessee while she was asleep. Branyan removed several items from the home and adjusted the thermostat to a very cold temperature.[141]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Geoff Baker (December 4, 2008). "Mariners sign big-hitting Russell Branyan to one-year deal". The Seattle Times. seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved January 23, 2010.
  2. ↑ Tom Verducci (March 26, 2002). "It's been a while, but Atlanta's pitching is now questionable". Sports Illustrated. sportsillustrated.cnn.com. Retrieved January 23, 2010.
  3. ↑ Jim Street (January 30, 2009). "Seattle looks for complement to Beltre". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 23, 2010.
  4. ↑ Larry Stone (August 25, 2009). "Russell Branyan vs. Jack Cust". The Seattle Times. seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  5. ↑ "Baseball: Eagles in College/Pros". Stratford Academy. stratford.org. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  6. ↑ "Stratford Athletic Hall of Fame". Stratford Academy. stratford.org. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  7. ↑ "All State Players". Stratford Academy. stratford.org. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  9. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "2009 Seattle Mariners Players Media Guide: Russell Branyan" (PDF). Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  10. 1 2 "Branyan Sets HR Record". Columbus Ledger-Enquirer. nl.newsbank.com. September 1, 1996. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  11. ↑ "Minor League Player of the Year by Team". The Baseball Cube. Retrieved July 25, 2011.
  12. ↑ "Cabrera, Laffey Receive '07 Honors". Scout.com. November 28, 2007. Retrieved July 25, 2011.
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  14. ↑ "It's going...going...gone,! The Pain in Russell Branyan's right wrist, that is.". Akron Beacon Journal. nl.newsbank.com. January 24, 1999. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  15. ↑ "July 23, 1999 Cleveland Indians at New York Yankees Box Score and Play by Play". Baseball-Reference. baseball-reference.com. Retrieved January 23, 2010.
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  18. ↑ Tony Jackson (August 23, 2002). "Branyan's slump goes even deeper". The Cincinnati Post. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  19. ↑ Mark Bechtel (March 25, 2002). "With a dropoff in firepower, this Tribe won't be lighting it up in the postseason". Sports Illustrated. sportsillustrated.cnn.com. Retrieved January 23, 2010.
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  22. ↑ "Indians ship Branyan to Reds". usatoday.com. Associated Press. June 7, 2002. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  25. ↑ Sandy Burgin (August 4, 2002). "Cincy's Branyan upstages Kotsay". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  26. ↑ Travis Hill (August 5, 2002). "Branyan's three homers lift Reds". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  27. ↑ Chris Haft (September 27, 2002). "Reds fall short vs. Expos in 11th". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  28. ↑ Travis Hill (August 4, 2002). "Branyan leads with bat and glove". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  29. ↑ Chris Haft (November 18, 2002). "Branyan injures shoulder". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  30. ↑ Chris Haft (November 23, 2002). "Branyan to have shoulder surgery". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  31. ↑ Chris Haft (May 3, 2003). "Reds notes: Branyan returns". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  32. ↑ Chris Haft (June 25, 2003). "Notes: Wilson fined, suspended". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  33. 1 2 3 "Russell Branyan Stats & Bio". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 29, 2010.
  34. ↑ Frederick Krift (July 21, 2003). "Bats wake up as Reds top Brewers". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  35. ↑ Chris Haft (August 13, 2002). "Notes: Reds' injury-filled day". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  36. ↑ Chris Haft (December 20, 2003). "No contracts offered to three Reds". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  37. ↑ Mark Bowman (January 21, 2004). "Branyan invited to Spring Training". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  38. ↑ "Braves add Russell Branyan to non-roster invitees". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. January 21, 2004. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  40. ↑ "Bisons acquire Russell Branyan". OurSports Central. oursportscentral.com. April 26, 2004. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  43. ↑ "Brewers purchase Russell Branyan's contract from Triple-A Buffalo". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. July 26, 2004. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  44. ↑ Arnie Stapleton (July 26, 2004). "Indians send Branyan to Brewers for cash". legacy.signonsandiego.com. Associated Press. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  45. 1 2 Adam McCalvy (July 27, 2004). "Notes: Yost bets on Branyan". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  46. ↑ Adam McCalvy (August 18, 2004). "Branyan's dramatics can't buy win". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  47. ↑ Adam McCalvy (September 12, 2004). "Sheets dominant in Milwaukee win". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  48. ↑ Adam McCalvy (December 21, 2004). "Branyan signs, avoids arbitration". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  49. ↑ "Brewers sign three, Branyan avoids arbitration". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. December 21, 2004. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  50. ↑ Adam McCalvy (January 15, 2005). "Around the Horn: Corner infielders". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  52. ↑ Stephen A. Norris (July 18, 2005). "Notes: Wise waits for call". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 24, 2010.
  53. ↑ Adam McCalvy (August 3, 2005). "Notes: Branyan plays with pain". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 24, 2010.
  54. ↑ Joe DiGiovanni (August 28, 2005). "Notes: Sheets keeps an eye on Katrina". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 24, 2010.
  55. ↑ Adam McCalvy (December 14, 2005). "Branyan's future with Brewers in limbo". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  56. ↑ "Brewers Sign Branyan, Kolb Becomes Free Agent". SportsNetwork. wisn.com. December 20, 2005. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  59. ↑ "Branyan cut loose by Brewers". CBC Sports. cbc.ca. January 18, 2006. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  60. ↑ "Branyan Signs Minor-League Deal With Rays". sfgate.com. Associated Press. January 31, 2006. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  61. ↑ Bill Chastain (January 31, 2009). "Branyan signs Minor League deal". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  62. ↑ Bill Chastain (March 22, 2006). "Utilitymen showing their flexibility". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  63. ↑ Roger Mooney (March 30, 2006). "Rays' Branyan still in running for roster spot". The Bradenton Herald. accessmylibrary.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  64. ↑ Fred Goodall (April 1, 2006). "Tigers Closer Todd Jones Injures Hamstring". sfgate.com. Associated Press. Retrieved January 24, 2010.
  65. ↑ Bill Chastain (April 4, 2006). "Ordaz placed on disabled list". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  66. ↑ Joe Frisaro (May 21, 2006). "Florida falls in walk-off heartbreaker". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  67. ↑ Dawn Klemish (May 21, 2006). "Second walk-off shot secures series". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  68. ↑ Dawn Klemish (July 27, 2006). "Rays with the right (now) stuff". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  69. ↑ Dawn Klemish (August 26, 2006). "Devil Rays get righty Meek for Branyan". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  72. ↑ Lyle Spencer (August 29, 2006). "Branyan flexes power as Padres fall". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  73. ↑ Amanda Branam (September 24, 2006). "Hoffman makes history as Friars sweep". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  74. ↑ Brian Hiro (September 12, 2006). "Russell the Muscle' puts firm grip on roster spot for 2007". North County Times. nctimes.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  75. ↑ "Padres exercise options for Cameron, Branyan, decline Piazza, Klesko". SignOnSanDiego. legacy.signonsandiego.com. October 30, 2006. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  76. ↑ "Padres decline option on Piazza; Cameron will return". sports.espn.go.com. Associated Press. October 30, 2006. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  77. ↑ Lyle Spencer (January 23, 2007). "Kouzmanoff ready for new chapter". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  78. ↑ Lyle Spencer (February 22, 2007). "Notes: Branyan just wants to play". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  79. ↑ Jorge L. Ortiz (February 7, 2007). "Padres hope quest for power at third base ends with Kouzmanoff". USAToday. usatoday.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  80. ↑ Corey Brock (March 28, 2007). "Notes: Branyan turns it on late". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  82. ↑ "Padres reinstate catcher Josh Bard; Place infielder Russell Branyan on bereavement list". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. April 27, 2007. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  83. ↑ "Pads activate Branyan, send Laforest to minors". sports.espn.go.com. Associated Press. May 3, 2007. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  84. ↑ Corey Brock (May 12, 2007). "Branyan, Peavy lift Padres past Cards". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  85. ↑ Corey Brock (June 16, 2007). "Padres pull out wild win at Wrigley". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  86. ↑ "San Diego Padres Release Russell Branyan". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. July 28, 2007. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  87. ↑ "Padres release Russell Branyan". Scout.com. padres.scout.com. July 28, 2007. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  88. ↑ Ben DuBose (July 28, 2007). "Notes: Hairston arrives, with versatility". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  89. ↑ "Indians Sign Branyan". The Sports Network. newsnet5.com. August 7, 2007. Archived from the original on February 24, 2012. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  90. ↑ Ken Mandel (August 10, 2007). "Notes: Phillies bring in Branyan". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  91. ↑ Jay Zenz (August 9, 2007). "Phillies Add Veteran Branyan". Scout.com. phillies.scout.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  92. ↑ "Branyan's homer rallies Phillies". usatoday.com. Associated Press. August 14, 2007. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  93. ↑ "Cardinals get Branyan from Phillies to bolster offense". sports.espn.go.com. Associated Press. August 31, 2007. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  94. ↑ Brian Walton (August 31, 2007). "Cardinals Acquire 3rd Baseman Russell Branyan". Scout.com. dodgers.scout.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  95. ↑ Matthew Leach (October 30, 2007). "Branyan files for free agency". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
  96. ↑ Michael Phillips (May 21, 2008). "Branyan back in the big leagues". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  97. 1 2 Thor Nystrom (June 29, 2008). "Branyan, Brewers fit perfectly together". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  98. ↑ Adam McCalvy (May 28, 2009). "Brewers hope changes lead to wins". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  99. 1 2 Adam McCalvy (June 4, 2008). "Branyan OK with splitting time". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  100. ↑ Adam McCalvy (July 20, 2008). "Branyan sees playing time dwindling". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  101. ↑ Adam McCalvy (July 29, 2008). "Branyan doing best to cope with role". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  102. ↑ Adam McCalvy (September 13, 2008). "Branyan feels good after rehab debut". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  103. ↑ "Mariners sign free agent Russell Branyan to contract". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. December 3, 2008. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  104. ↑ David Andiriesen (February 25, 2009). "Branyan gets Mariners' first call at first base". Seattle Post-Intelligencer. seattlepi.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.[ ]
  105. 1 2 3 Geoff Baker (May 12, 2009). "Vision program has Mariners' Russell Branyan seeing improvement". The Seattle Times. seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
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  107. ↑ Christian Caple (August 9, 2009). "Mariners erupt for 11 runs to win big". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  108. ↑ Geoff Baker (June 1, 2009). "Mariners' Russell Branyan not comfy in cleanup role". The Seattle Times. seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  109. ↑ Gregg Bell (February 21, 2009). "Griffey will play OF as much as legs allow". usatoday.com. Associated Press. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  110. ↑ Doug Miller (April 19, 2009). "Branyan sits due to back stiffness". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  111. ↑ Jim Street (August 30, 2009). "Mariners place Branyan on disabled list". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  112. ↑ Jim Street (September 27, 2009). "Branyan's season could be over". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  113. ↑ "Mariners activate Branyan from DL". sportingnews.com. Associated Press. September 29, 2009. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  114. ↑ "Russell Branyan: Branyan hoping to return this season". NBC Sports. rotoworld.com. September 15, 2009. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  115. ↑ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2016-04-24. Retrieved 2010-06-15.
  116. ↑ Geoff Baker (January 13, 2010). "Russell Branyan ready to move on from Mariners". The Seattle Times. seattletimes.nwsource.com. Retrieved January 16, 2010.
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  118. 1 2 3 Jim Street (November 10, 2009). "Branyan rejects Mariners' one-year offer". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 13, 2010.
  119. ↑ Doug Miller (January 7, 2010). "Seattle acquires Kotchman, adds to makeover". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 8, 2010.
  120. ↑ Jim Street (January 13, 2010). "Branyan ready to move on from Mariners". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 13, 2010.
  121. ↑ Alden Gonzalez (February 2, 2010). "Roundup: Marlins make Branyan an offer". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved February 2, 2010.
  122. ↑ "Fantasy Baseball Breaking News". NBC Sports. rotoworld.com. February 5, 2010. Retrieved February 6, 2010.
  123. ↑ "Buzz: Latest from the MLB offseason". Fox Sports. msn.foxsports.com. February 10, 2010. Retrieved February 9, 2010.
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  125. 1 2 Anthony Castrovince (February 16, 2010). "Indians extend offer to Branyan". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved February 18, 2010.
  126. ↑ Paul Hoynes (February 17, 2010). "Bidding for Russell Branyan down to Cleveland Indians and Tampa Bay". The Plain Dealer. cleveland.com. Retrieved February 18, 2010.
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  128. ↑ Anthony Castrovince / MLB.com (June 27, 2010). "Branyan dealt to M's; LaPorta promoted | indians.com: News". Cleveland.indians.mlb.com. Retrieved August 21, 2010.
  129. ↑ "Russell Branyan 2010 Batting Gamelogs". Baseball-Reference.com. Retrieved October 20, 2012.
  130. ↑ Gilbert, Steve (February 16, 2011). "http://www.azcentral.com/sports/diamondbacks/articles/2011/03/25/20110325arizona-diamondbacks-notes-russell-branyan-roster.html". MLB.com. Retrieved August 29, 2014. External link in |title= (help)
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  133. ↑ Spencer, Lyle (May 26, 2011). "Angels pick up left-handed slugger Branyan". MLB.com. Retrieved August 29, 2014.
  134. ↑ Dan Martin (February 8, 2012). "Yankees sign Branyan to minor league deal". New York Post. Retrieved February 8, 2012.
  135. ↑ Yankees Release Russell Branyan Archived March 4, 2016, at the Wayback Machine., Mlbtraderumors.com August 10, 2012.
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  137. ↑ John Hickey (November 8, 2009). "Trades may be on M's horizon as GM meetings starts". Seattle Post Globe. seattlepostglobe.org. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  138. ↑ Corey Brock (May 19, 2007). "Notes: Young not bothered by steals". Major League Baseball. MLB.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  139. 1 2 Joey Morona (February 7, 2008). "Ex-Indian Branyan facing domestic violence charge". Cleveland Live. cleveland.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  140. 1 2 Kim Wendel (February 5, 2008). "Former Cleveland Indian Russell Branyan in court for domestic violence". WKYC-TV. wkyc.com. Retrieved January 21, 2010.
  141. ↑ "Former MLB Player Russell Branyan Arrested". Bleacher Report. Retrieved 2015-11-18.
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Awards and achievements
Preceded by
Richie Sexson		 Indians' Minor League Player of the Year
(the Lou Boudreau Award)
1996 		Succeeded by
Sean Casey
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