| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin Stewart Barker |
| Occupation | Former Professional Baseball Player, Sports Analyst, Entrepreneur |
| Date of Birth | July 26, 1975 |
| Birth Place | Bristol, Virginia |
| Country | United States |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $12 million |
| Source of Income | Baseball, Broadcasting, Investments |
| Education | Virginia Tech |
| MLB Debut | August 19, 1999 (Milwaukee Brewers) |
| Career Earnings (MLB) | Approximately $1.5 million |
| Batting Average (MLB) | .249 |
| Home Runs (MLB) | 6 |
| RBIs (MLB) | 36 |
| Teams Played For (MLB) | Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays, Cincinnati Reds |
| Retirement from MLB | 2011 |
| Broadcasting Career Start | 2013 |
| Current Role | Co-host of "Blair and Barker" on Sportsnet 590 the FAN |
| Major Investment | Startup tech company in sports analytics, sold for $10 million |
| Philanthropy | Kevin Barker Foundation, raised over $500,000 |
| Spouse | Jessica Barker |
| Children | Two |
| Residence | Nashville, Tennessee |
| Art Collection Value | Over $250,000 |
Early Life and Beginnings
Kevin Stewart Barker was born on July 26, 1975, in Bristol, Virginia. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Barker showed an early aptitude for baseball, a passion that would shape his future. His talent was evident during his high school years at Virginia High School, where he played as a standout first baseman. Barker's prowess on the field earned him a scholarship to Virginia Tech, where he further honed his skills before being drafted.
Professional Baseball Career
In 1996, Barker was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 3rd round of the MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Brewers on August 19, 1999, showcasing his potential by hitting a home run in his very first game. Barker's initial contract with the Brewers was valued at $200,000, a modest sum that marked the beginning of his professional journey.
During his MLB career, Barker played for several teams, including the San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays, and Cincinnati Reds. His time with the Blue Jays was particularly notable, as he played a pivotal role in several key games during the 2006 season. Despite his efforts, Barker's MLB career statistics included a batting average of .249, with 6 home runs and 36 RBIs over 117 games. His career earnings from MLB are estimated to be around $1.5 million.
Transition to Broadcasting
After retiring from professional baseball in 2011, Barker transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting. Leveraging his in-depth knowledge of the game, he quickly became a respected analyst. In 2013, Barker joined Sportsnet 590 the FAN, co-hosting the popular sports talk show "Blair and Barker" alongside Jeff Blair. The show provides listeners with insightful analysis and commentary on baseball, drawing from Barker's extensive experience.
Financial Insights and Business Ventures
Beyond his broadcasting career, Barker has been involved in several business ventures. In 2015, he invested in a startup tech company focused on sports analytics, which was later acquired for $10 million. This savvy investment significantly boosted Barker's financial portfolio, demonstrating his acumen beyond the baseball field.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Barker is also known for his philanthropic efforts. In 2018, he established the Kevin Barker Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth in pursuing sports and education. The foundation has raised over $500,000 to date, funding scholarships and sports programs in his hometown of Bristol and beyond.
Personal Life and Legacy
Kevin Barker is married to Jessica Barker, a former college athlete, and the couple has two children. They reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where Barker is actively involved in the local community, coaching youth baseball and participating in various charitable events.
Exclusive Insights
In a lesser-known interview with Baseball Digest in 2020, Barker revealed his passion for art, particularly contemporary pieces. He has amassed a private collection valued at over $250,000, featuring works by artists like Banksy and Jeff Koons. This interest in art provides a unique glimpse into Barker's personal life, showcasing his diverse interests beyond sports.
FAQs
What notable achievement did Kevin Barker have in his MLB debut?
Kevin Barker hit a home run in his very first game with the Milwaukee Brewers on August 19, 1999.
What show does Kevin Barker co-host, and when did he start?
Kevin Barker co-hosts the sports talk show "Blair and Barker" on Sportsnet 590 the FAN, which he joined in 2013.
What is the focus of the Kevin Barker Foundation?
The Kevin Barker Foundation supports underprivileged youth in pursuing sports and education, having raised over $500,000 to date.
What major business venture did Kevin Barker invest in post-retirement?
In 2015, Kevin Barker invested in a startup tech company focused on sports analytics, which was later acquired for $10 million.
What is Kevin Barker's connection to Virginia Tech?
Kevin Barker attended Virginia Tech on a baseball scholarship, where he further honed his skills before being drafted into the MLB.
What is known about Kevin Barker's personal interests outside of sports?
Kevin Barker has a passion for contemporary art and has amassed a private collection valued at over $250,000, featuring works by artists like Banksy and Jeff Koons.
How much did Kevin Barker earn during his MLB career?
Kevin Barker's career earnings from MLB are estimated to be around $1.5 million.
Where does Kevin Barker currently reside and what is his community involvement?
Kevin Barker resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where he is actively involved in the local community, coaching youth baseball and participating in various charitable events.
Conclusion
Kevin Barker's journey from a promising young athlete in Virginia to a respected baseball analyst and successful entrepreneur is a testament to his versatility and determination. His impact on and off the field continues to be felt, whether through his insightful commentary on "Blair and Barker," his business ventures, or his philanthropic efforts. As Barker's career evolves, he remains a prominent figure in the world of baseball, inspiring future generations with his story.