We've all been impressed with the production the Phillies have been getting out of Jayson Werth the last two seasons. He's put up some outstanding numbers for a platoon player and even earned some starting time while Shane Victorino was hurt or struggling at the plate. Hell, Werth is even owned in my 10-team mixed league.
In 132 at bats this season, Werth has 9 homers, 26 RBI, and 7 steals. Now a valuable role player on a contending team, he has grown into a man on the field. Werth's played for three major league teams, traveling a long road since being drafted in June 1997. After the jump, to celebrate draft week, a few archival pics taken when a wiry Werth was selected by the Baltimore Orioles, probably before he could grow that landing strip on his chin.
Also See: Klepto: The Jayson Werth Steals Home Story
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Here's a picture of Werth reacting (with his mom) to the news of being drafted by the Baltimore Orioles. He'd also signed a letter of intent with Georgia.
And here's a shot of Jayson donning the orange bird, probably imagining a brighter future with the Phils. See, there's nothing wrong with having an awkward glasses phase, kids.
Werth will hopefully return from a brief DL stint on schedule, and keep up his career year.
Baltimore Sun photo by Karl Merton Ferron.