Shawn Estes, born on February 18, 1973 in San Bernardino, California, discovered his love for baseball at a young age. He attended Douglas High School in Nevada, where he honed his skills on the pitcher's mound. It was here that he began to develop his signature big-breaking curveball, setting him apart from his peers.
After high school, Estes was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 1st round of the 1991 MLB Draft. He quickly rose through the ranks of the minor leagues, showcasing his talent and earning a reputation as a formidable left-handed starter. In 1995, he made his big league debut with the San Francisco Giants and never looked back.
During his 13-year career in the majors, Estes established himself as a reliable and consistent pitcher. He won a total of 101 games, with his big-breaking curveball striking fear into opposing batters. While he wasn't known for his control, often walking 100 or more batters in a season, his raw talent and competitive spirit made him a force to be reckoned with on the mound.
Despite his occasional struggles with control, Estes still managed to lead the league in wild pitches once, a testament to his fierce pitching style. He faced off against some of the best hitters in the game, always bringing his A-game to the mound.
Off the field, Estes is a devoted father to his two sons, Jackson and Cody. He balances his passion for baseball with his love for his family, finding joy in both aspects of his life.
Throughout his career, Estes had the privilege of playing alongside some of the game's greatest talents. One of his most notable teammates was Barry Larkin, the gifted Cincinnati Reds shortstop. Together, they formed a dynamic duo on the field, showcasing their respective skills and pushing each other to new heights.
As Estes looks back on his career, he can take pride in the impact he made on the game of baseball. His big-breaking curveball will forever be remembered by fans and fellow players alike, solidifying his place in the annals of baseball history.