Orlando Hudson

Orlando Thill Hudson (born December 12, 1977 in Darlington, South Carolina) is a major league second baseman for the National League's Arizona Diamondbacks. He is popularly known by his nickname "O-Dog" which he got from one of the characters in the movie Menace 2 Society. Hudson was drafted in the 43rd round by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 1997 MLB Draft. Hudson is renowned around the major leagues for his fielding prowess, known for making spectacular lunging catches and diving stabs at grounders. His defensive talents were recognized in 2005, when he won his first American League Gold Glove Award while with the Toronto Blue Jays. In 2005, he was traded to the Diamondbacks along with pitcher Miguel Batista for slugging third baseman Troy Glaus and shortstop prospect Sergio Santos. In the 2006 season, his first full season with Arizona, Hudson set career-highs in batting average with a .287, in home runs with 15, in RBI with 67, and runs scored with 87. After the 2006 season, Hudson became the recipent of his second career Gold Glove Award, as announced on November 3. Hudson became only the sixth infielder in major league history to win a Gold Glove award in both the American and National Leagues. Hudson was selected to his first All-Star Game in 2007. Hudson is a favorite of ESPN's program, Baseball Tonight, where his hustle and great defense make him loved by the analysts. He is often given the "Gem of the Night" replay, and as a Blue Jay, often made predictions with his teammates during the game which one was the "gem". Hudson is currently injured with a torn ligament in his left thumb. According to the Arizona Diamondbacks website, the recovery outlook for Hudson is six to eight weeks. He is expected to be ready for spring training in 2008. Hudson recently lent his fielding expertise to Protégé Sports, based in Scottsdale, AZ, filming tips and drills on how to play second base.

High school career

At Darlington High School in Darlington, South Carolina, Hudson was a three sport standout in baseball, football, and basketball. In baseball, he was the Player of the Year and an All-State selection. In football, Hudson was a quarterback and a punter. He was the quarterback of Darlington High School's first ever football team.

Awards and Honors

• Golden Glove Award (2005, 2006, 2007)
• All-Star (2007)

See also

• Arizona Diamondbacks all-time roster

External links

• Orlando Hudson's career statistics at Baseball-Reference.com
• ESPN profile
• MLB profile