Athletes

KSI Net Worth

Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji, most famously known as KSI, is a multi-talented English personality who has achieved prominence as a YouTuber, rapper, boxer, and businessman. He began his journey on YouTube in 2009, initially focusing on FIFA game commentary videos, and later diversifying into vlogs and comedy. His online moniker ‘KSI’ is said to stand for ‘Knowledge Strength Integrity’. In 2013, KSI co-founded the YouTube group Sidemen, further expanding his reach and influence. Beyond YouTube, KSI has found success in the music industry, releasing albums and singles that have charted in the UK. He has also ventured into the world of boxing, participating in high-profile matches against other online personalities like Logan Paul. Together with Logan Paul, KSI co-founded Prime Hydration in 2022, which has become a popular beverage brand. As of 2024, KSI’s estimated net worth is $100 million, a testament to his diverse and successful career.

Chris Davis Net Worth

Chris Davis is a retired American professional baseball player. During his MLB career (2009-2020), he earned approximately $190 million in salary. He played for the Texas Rangers (2008-2011) and the Baltimore Orioles (2011-2020). Known for his powerful hitting, Davis hit 53 home runs in 2013, setting an Orioles franchise record. He was an All-Star in 2013 and finished third in the AL MVP voting that year. In 2016, he signed a seven-year, $161 million contract with the Orioles. This contract included deferred payments, ensuring he will receive payments until 2037. While known for his power, Davis also holds some less desirable records, including leading the majors in strikeouts-per-at-bat and having the lowest batting average in the league for a qualified player in 2018.

Glen Plake Net Worth

Glen Plake, born on September 9, 1964, in Livermore, California, is a celebrated American alpine skier renowned for his pioneering role in extreme skiing and his distinctive multi-colored Mohawk hairstyle. He grew up in Lake Tahoe, skiing at Heavenly Valley from a young age. Plake’s career gained momentum in the mid-1980s as he transitioned from traditional alpine racing to freestyle and extreme skiing. He gained fame through ski films, most notably “The Blizzard of Aahhhs,” which showcased his audacious skiing and flamboyant personality. He is a three-time World Hot Dog Ski champion and was inducted into the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame in 2010. Beyond skiing, Plake is passionate about off-road racing and has participated in events like the Baja 1000. He is also a certified ski instructor, dedicated to promoting skiing to new enthusiasts. Glen Plake is married to Kimberly, and they often collaborate on skiing tours and projects. He continues to inspire new generations of skiers with his commitment to the skiing community.

Greg Maddux Net Worth

Gregory Alan Maddux, nicknamed “Mad Dog” and “The Professor,” is an American former professional baseball pitcher. He played 23 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily for the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs. Renowned for his exceptional control, accuracy, and ability to analyze hitters, Maddux is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. He won the 1995 World Series with the Braves. Maddux is the only pitcher in MLB history to win the Cy Young Award four consecutive times (1992–1995). He also holds a record 18 Gold Glove Awards, showcasing his fielding excellence. Over his career, Maddux achieved 355 wins and over 3,000 strikeouts. In 2014, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Manny Machado Net Worth

Manuel Arturo Machado, born on July 6, 1992, is an American professional baseball third baseman and shortstop for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball (MLB). Machado was highly scouted from a young age and raised in Miami, where he attended Brito High School. He was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles with the third overall pick in the 2010 MLB draft and made his debut in August 2012. A six-time All-Star, he has also won two Gold Glove Awards and two Silver Slugger Awards. He signed a 10-year, $300 million contract with the Padres in 2019 and then signed an 11-year, $350 million contract extension through the 2033 season. In addition to his baseball career, Machado has endorsement deals with Nike, Rawlings, Budweiser, Petco, Ethika, New Balance and Pepsi. He is also part owner of San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer team.

Joe DiMaggio Net Worth

Joseph Paul DiMaggio (November 25, 1914 – March 8, 1999), nicknamed “Joltin’ Joe” and “The Yankee Clipper,” was an American baseball center fielder who played his entire 13-year Major League Baseball career for the New York Yankees. He is perhaps best known for his 56-game hitting streak (May 15 – July 16, 1941), a record that still stands. DiMaggio was a three-time Most Valuable Player Award winner and an All-Star in each of his 13 seasons. During his tenure with the Yankees, the club won ten American League pennants and nine World Series championships. DiMaggio set a franchise record in 1936 by hitting 29 home runs in his rookie season. In 1939, DiMaggio was nicknamed the “Yankee Clipper” by Yankee’s stadium announcer Arch McDonald. Following his retirement in 1951, DiMaggio was briefly married to Marilyn Monroe and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1955. He made considerable money as a celebrity in TV commercials and as a spokesman. Joe DiMaggio died from lung cancer on March 8, 1999, at the age of 84.

Michael Andretti Net Worth

Michael Mario Andretti, born on October 5, 1962, is an American former racing driver and current team owner. He is the son of racing legend Mario Andretti. Michael is statistically one of the most successful drivers in American open-wheel car racing history. Andretti won the 1991 CART championship and amassed 42 race victories, the most in the CART era. Since his retirement from professional driving in 2003, Andretti has owned Andretti Autosport (now Andretti Global), a successful racing team that has won multiple IndyCar Series championships and Indianapolis 500 races. Andretti Autosport competes in IndyCar Series, Indy NXT, Formula E, Extreme E, and joint entries in IMSA and the Australian Supercars Championship. Michael also had a short stint in Formula 1 with McLaren partnering with Ayrton Senna. Beyond his driving career, Andretti has excelled as a businessman. His leadership at Andretti Autosport has solidified his place as a prominent figure in the motorsports world. Michael Andretti stepped down from his role as CEO of Andretti Global in September 2024, he handed over the ownership of his namesake organization to co-owner and Group 1001 CEO Dan Towriss while retaining an ambassadorial and advisory role.

Jeremy McGrath Net Worth

Jeremy McGrath, born on November 19, 1971, is a former American professional motocross and supercross racer. Known as the ‘King of Supercross,’ he is considered one of the most popular and influential figures in motorcycle racing history. McGrath’s dominance in the 1990s earned him seven AMA Supercross 250cc championships between 1993 and 2000. Before transitioning to motocross, Jeremy was a BMX rider. He revolutionized supercross riding techniques, using BMX-style approaches to clear jumps and maintain speed. His signature move, the ‘Nac Nac,’ helped inspire freestyle motocross. McGrath’s success extended beyond Supercross, with one 250cc AMA Motocross championship, two 125cc West championships, and a record 72 premier class supercross wins. He represented the United States in the Motocross des Nations, winning in 1993 and 1996. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2003.

Daniel Sturridge Net Worth

Daniel Andre Sturridge, born on September 1, 1989, is an English former professional footballer who played as a striker. Since 2023, he has been a television pundit for Sky Sports. Sturridge began his youth career at Aston Villa before moving to Coventry City and then Manchester City. He made his first-team debut for Manchester City in the 2007–08 season. He later played for Chelsea, Liverpool, Trabzonspor, and Perth Glory. Sturridge represented England at all levels, including the 2012 Summer Olympics and the 2014 FIFA World Cup. During his career, Sturridge amassed several accolades, including Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League titles. His career peaked during his tenure at Liverpool, forming a formidable partnership with Luis Suárez and scoring 21 goals in the 2013–14 Premier League season. He earned 26 caps for England between 2011 and 2017, scoring eight goals.

Cal Ripken Jr. Net Worth

Calvin Edwin Ripken Jr., nicknamed “The Iron Man,” is a retired American baseball shortstop and third baseman who played 21 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Baltimore Orioles (1981–2001). He is celebrated for breaking Lou Gehrig’s record for consecutive games played, a record that had stood for 56 years. Ripken’s streak lasted from May 30, 1982, to September 20, 1998, totaling 2,632 games. A 19-time All-Star, he was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007. Ripken was also named American League (AL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) twice, in 1983 and 1991. Beyond baseball, Ripken is a successful businessman and philanthropist. He founded Ripken Baseball, which operates youth baseball complexes. He also established the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, which supports underserved communities.

Harrison Smith Net Worth

Harrison Smith, born on February 2, 1989, is an American professional football safety for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). He attended Knoxville Catholic High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. He was named Gatorade Football Player of the Year in Tennessee in 2006. Smith played college football for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where he played safety and linebacker. He was selected by the Vikings in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft with the 29th overall pick. Since joining the Vikings, Smith has been a key player in their defense. Known for his versatility, intelligence, and toughness, he quickly made an impact. In 2016, he signed a five-year contract extension for $51.25 million. Smith has been selected for multiple Pro Bowls and was named First-Team All-Pro in 2017. During the 2017 season, Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded Smith as the third-best player in the NFL. His 2017 season grade of 98.8 was also the highest among safeties in PFF history. Smith continues to be recognized as one of the best safeties in the NFL and was ranked 46th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.

Mike Fisher Net Worth

Mike Fisher is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player. Born on June 5, 1980, in Peterborough, Ontario, he played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons. Fisher was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 1998 and played with them until 2011 when he was traded to the Nashville Predators. He was known for his two-way play, leadership, and physical style, accumulating 278 goals and 589 points in 1,104 career games. Beyond his hockey career, Mike Fisher gained widespread recognition for his marriage to country music superstar Carrie Underwood in 2010. The couple has two sons and resides in Nashville, Tennessee. Fisher’s strong Christian faith has been a defining aspect of his life, influencing his decisions and involvement in charitable work. Since retiring from professional hockey, Fisher has remained active in various ventures, including running the hunting lifestyle and apparel brand Catchin’ Deers with his brother and friends.

Chandler Parsons Net Worth

Chandler Parsons is an American former professional basketball player. He was born in Casselberry, Florida, in October 1988. He played college basketball for the University of Florida, where he was named SEC Player of the Year in 2011. Parsons was drafted by the Houston Rockets as the 38th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. He played for the Rockets from 2011 to 2014, followed by the Dallas Mavericks (2014-2016), the Memphis Grizzlies (2016-2019), and the Atlanta Hawks (2019-2020). A car accident in January 2020, where he was struck by a drunk driver, resulted in injuries that could be career-ending and he retired on January 18, 2022. In his NBA career, he played 440 games averaging 12.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game.

Joaquin Niemann Net Worth

Joaquin Niemann is a Chilean professional golfer who has quickly risen to prominence in the world of golf. Born on November 7, 1998, in Santiago, Chile, Niemann displayed exceptional talent from a young age. His parents, both with athletic backgrounds, introduced him to the sport, and he soon began making waves in the amateur scene. Niemann held the number one position in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for 44 weeks, from May 2017 to April 2018. He turned professional in 2018 and immediately made an impact on the PGA Tour, becoming the first Chilean to win a PGA Tour event in 2019 at A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier. In 2022, Niemann joined LIV Golf, reportedly accepting a $100 million guarantee. He is the captain of the Torque GC team. Niemann’s success extends beyond the PGA Tour, with victories on the DP World Tour and the Asian Tour. He continues to be a significant figure in the sport, representing Chile on the international stage and securing his position among golf’s elite.

Sterling Marlin Net Worth

Sterling Burton Marlin, born on June 30, 1957, is a retired American stock car racing driver. He is celebrated for his achievements in NASCAR, including winning the Daytona 500 in 1994 and 1995. Marlin, the son of late NASCAR driver Coo Coo Marlin, began his NASCAR career in 1976. He also helped form the Tennessee Racing Association to preserve Fairgrounds Speedway. He was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. Before dedicating himself to racing, Marlin showcased his athletic abilities as a standout football and basketball player at Spring Hill High School. In 2012, Marlin announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinsonism.

David Justice Net Worth

David Christopher Justice, born on April 14, 1966, is a retired American professional baseball player. He played for several Major League Baseball teams, including the Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, and Oakland Athletics. Justice was named a three-time All-Star and a two-time World Series champion. In 1990, he earned the National League Rookie of the Year Award. Known for his performance, Justice’s career included 305 home runs and 1,017 runs batted in. After retiring from baseball, Justice worked as a baseball commentator for ESPN. David Justice was inducted into the Atlanta Braves Hall of Fame in 2007.

Mike Weir Net Worth

Michael Richard Weir, born on May 12, 1970, is a Canadian professional golfer. He is celebrated as one of Canada’s greatest golfers, achieving global recognition by winning the Masters Tournament in 2003, making him the first Canadian man and first left-handed golfer to win the prestigious event. Weir learned to play golf at Huron Oaks Golf Course. He turned professional in 1992. Between 2001 and 2005, Weir spent over 110 weeks in the top-10 of the Official World Golf Ranking. In total, Weir has secured eight PGA Tour victories. Weir was also inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 2009. Weir continues to compete on the PGA Tour Champions circuit, where he earned his first win at the 2021 Insperity Invitational.

Solofa F. Fatu Jr. Net Worth

Solofa Fatu Jr., most famously known as Rikishi, is a retired American professional wrestler. Born into the Anoa’i wrestling family, he has made a significant impact on the wrestling industry. Rikishi rose to prominence during his time in WWE (formerly WWF), where he became a WWE Hall of Famer (inducted in 2015). He is a two-time World Tag Team Champion and a one-time WWE Tag Team Champion and Intercontinental Champion. His career began in 1985, and he wrestled in various promotions before joining the WWF. Rikishi is known for his signature moves like the Stink Face and the Banzai Drop. He is also remembered for his entertaining dance routines with the tag team Too Cool. Since retiring from full-time wrestling, Rikishi still makes appearances and remains a respected figure in the wrestling community. He is also the father of current WWE superstars, The Usos.

Matt Rhule Net Worth

Matt Rhule is an American professional football coach and former football player. He is currently the head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He was born in New York, New York in January 1975. Rhule played college football as a linebacker at Penn State. Before Nebraska Cornhuskers, Rhule became head coach of the Carolina Panthers in 2020 and was fired in October 2022. Before his NFL career, he was the head coach at Temple from 2013 to 2016 and at Baylor from 2017 to 2019. He won the AAC Championship in 2016 and was named Big 12 Coach of the Year in 2019. In January 2020, Rhule signed a contract with the Carolina Panthers for a reported $70 million over seven years, but he was later fired. In November 2022, Rhule signed an eight-year, $74 million contract with Nebraska.

Melissa Stark Net Worth

Melissa Zoey Stark, born on November 11, 1973, is an accomplished American television personality and sportscaster. She is widely recognized as the current sideline reporter for NBC’s Sunday Night Football, a role she began in 2022. Stark’s career spans over two decades, during which she has covered numerous high-profile sporting events, including the Super Bowl and the Olympics. Before joining NBC Sports, she gained prominence as a sideline reporter for ABC’s Monday Night Football and worked with ESPN and NFL Network. Stark is known for her insightful commentary, professional demeanor, and ability to connect with audiences, making her a respected figure in the sports broadcasting industry. A graduate of the University of Virginia with a degree in Foreign Affairs and Spanish, Stark’s fluency in Spanish and deep understanding of sports have contributed to her success. She is also an advocate for women in sports broadcasting, inspiring many aspiring journalists.

Al Leiter Net Worth

Alois Terry Leiter, born on October 23, 1965, is a former American professional baseball player who has transitioned into a successful career as a television sports commentator. Over his 19-year MLB career, he played as a left-handed pitcher for prominent teams including the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Florida Marlins, and New York Mets. Leiter is celebrated for his achievements on the field, including pitching a no-hitter on May 11, 1996, while with the Florida Marlins. He also won three World Series championships. A two-time All-Star, Leiter received the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 2000 for his sportsmanship and community involvement. After retiring in 2005, Leiter moved into broadcasting, where he has become a respected analyst for networks like the YES Network and MLB Network, earning multiple Sports Emmy Award nominations and wins. He’s also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting youth sports development and other charitable causes.

Laurie Hernandez Net Worth

Lauren Zoe “Laurie” Hernandez, born on June 9, 2000, is an American artistic gymnast and actress. She rose to prominence as a member of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team, known as the “Final Five,” at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. There, she won a gold medal in the team event and a silver medal on the balance beam. Her journey in gymnastics began at the age of 5, and she quickly progressed through the ranks, showcasing her talent and charisma. Following her Olympic success, Laurie won season 23 of “Dancing with the Stars”, becoming the youngest winner in the show’s history. She has also appeared in various television shows and has become a role model for young athletes. In addition to her athletic and television endeavors, Hernandez is an author, sharing her experiences and inspiring others through her books. She is known for her vibrant personality and positive attitude, earning her the nickname “the human emoji.”

Jarret Stoll Net Worth

Jarret Lee Stoll, born on June 24, 1982, is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player. He played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, and Minnesota Wild. Stoll is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, winning with Los Angeles in 2012 and 2014. Known for his face-off skills, Stoll began his NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers after being drafted 36th overall in 2002. He was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 2008, where he achieved his greatest success, winning two Stanley Cups. After his NHL career, Stoll transitioned to player development with the Kings. He is married to sportscaster Erin Andrews. Stoll represented Canada twice at the World Junior Hockey Championships, winning a bronze medal in 2001 and a silver medal in 2002. Stoll’s career earnings totaled approximately $28.5 million.

Tim Hasselbeck Net Worth

Timothy Thomas “Tim” Hasselbeck, born on April 6, 1978, is an American sports journalist and former professional football player. He is currently an analyst for ESPN. Before his media career, Hasselbeck played quarterback in the NFL for eight seasons, representing teams such as the Washington Redskins, New York Giants, and Arizona Cardinals. He also had brief stints with the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Philadelphia Eagles. He played college football at Boston College. Hasselbeck joined ESPN in August 2008. He contributes to various shows including SportsCenter, Get Up, and ESPN Radio. He provides post-game analysis on SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt during NFL Sundays. He participated in the NFL’s ‘Broadcast Boot Camp’ in 2007, which led to his television debut as an analyst for a Cardinals-Ravens game on FOX. In December 2023, Hasselbeck announced it would be his last game broadcasting for ESPN. In March 2024, Tim took over as head coach at The Ensworth School in Nashville, Tennessee. He is the younger brother of former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and the son of former NFL tight end Don Hasselbeck.

Alicia Sacramone Net Worth

Alicia Marie Sacramone Quinn (born December 3, 1987) is a retired American artistic gymnast. She began her gymnastics journey at the age of eight, quickly demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication. By 2003, she had reached the elite level, joining the United States National Team. Sacramone achieved significant success at the U.S. National Championships between 2004 and 2008, securing 12 medals, including four gold medals on the vault and two on the floor exercise. Her achievements also extend to the World Championships from 2005 to 2007, where she won seven medals. Sacramone’s career highlight includes winning a team silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She continued to excel, winning the National Championship on vault in 2010 and another World Title on vault at the 2010 World Championships. She has a total of 10 World medals. In 2014, Alicia married NFL quarterback Brady Quinn. She attended Brown University. She retired in 2009 but made a comeback, and after she was not named to the Olympic team in 2012 she retired. She has also appeared in commercials and as a spokeswoman for Team 24 Fitness.

Mandy Rose Net Worth

Amanda Rose Saccomanno, most famously known as Mandy Rose, is an American professional wrestler, television personality, and fitness and figure competitor. Born on July 18, 1990, in Westchester County, New York, she gained prominence in WWE. Rose began her journey in professional fitness competitions in 2013 and transitioned to bodybuilding the next year. She secured second place on WWE Tough Enough in 2015, leading to a WWE contract. After a brief stint in NXT, she debuted on Raw in 2017, joining Absolution. Rose competed alongside Sonya Deville as Fire and Desire, later disbanding in 2020. In 2021, she returned to NXT, forming Toxic Attraction and winning the NXT Women’s Championship. Beyond wrestling, Mandy has expanded her brand through various ventures, including fitness apps and endorsements. She was released by WWE in December 2022 and has since focused on content creation, reportedly earning significantly more than her WWE salary through platforms like FanTime and OnlyFans. Rose also has endorsements with C4 Energy, and co-founded A Golden Rose, a fitness and lifestyle brand, and owns Amarose, a beauty and skincare line. She is engaged to fellow wrestler Tino Sabbatelli.

Peter Crouch Net Worth

Peter James Crouch, born on January 30, 1981, is an English former professional footballer who played as a striker. Known for his towering height of 6’7″, Crouch was a prominent figure in English football for nearly two decades. He began his career as a trainee with Tottenham Hotspur, later playing for clubs like Queens Park Rangers, Portsmouth, Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Stoke City. He is one of only 33 players to have scored 100 or more Premier League goals and jointly holds the record for the most headed goals in Premier League history. He also played for the English national team between 2005 and 2010, earning 42 caps and scoring 22 goals, and representing his country at two FIFA World Cups. Since retiring from professional football in 2019, Crouch has transitioned into a successful media career, working as a football pundit for various networks and hosting popular podcasts, showcasing his humor and insightful analysis of the game.

LeSean Kamel McCoy Net Worth

LeSean Kamel McCoy, born on July 12, 1988, nicknamed “Shady”, is a retired American professional football player who excelled as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). His career spanned 12 years, during which he played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. McCoy’s football journey began at Bishop McDevitt High School, where despite an ankle injury in his senior year, he showcased immense talent. He then played college football for the Pittsburgh Panthers. McCoy was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft. His professional career highlights include being a two-time Super Bowl champion (LIV, LV), a two-time First-team All-Pro (2011, 2013), and a six-time Pro Bowl selection (2011, 2013–2017). In both 2011 and 2013, he respectively led the NFL in rushing touchdowns and rushing yards. By the end of his career, McCoy had accumulated over 11,000 rushing yards. Since September 2024, McCoy has been a co-host on The Facility on Fox Sports 1 (FS1).

Graham Rahal Net Worth

Graham Robert Rahal, born on January 4, 1989, is an accomplished American race car driver currently competing in the IndyCar Series with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, a team co-owned by his father, Bobby Rahal, the 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner. Growing up immersed in motorsports due to his father’s legacy, Graham began racing karts at age 11. He quickly progressed, earning a scholarship to race in the Formula BMW series and later competing in the Star Mazda Series. In 2007, he entered the Champ Car World Series with Newman-Haas Racing, marking his entry into the major leagues. A year later, Graham achieved a significant milestone by becoming the youngest winner in IndyCar Series history at the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, a title he held for over a decade. Beyond racing, Rahal is also a small business owner with Graham Rahal Performance, Ducati dealerships, and Rahal Paint Protection. He is married to former NHRA drag racer Courtney Force, and they have two daughters. He also founded the Graham and Courtney Rahal Foundation, focusing on veterans’ causes and cancer research. An avid golfer and Ohio State fan, he enjoys high-end cars and motorcycles, including a race-winning Ducati team.

Sammy Sosa Net Worth

Samuel Peralta Sosa, born on November 12, 1968, is a Dominican-American former professional baseball right fielder. Known as one of baseball’s most beloved athletes, Sosa grew up in poverty in the Dominican Republic. Sosa made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers in 1989. He played for the Chicago White Sox before joining the Chicago Cubs in 1992, where he became one of the game’s best hitters. During the 1998 season, Sosa competed with Mark McGwire, capturing national attention as they both chased Roger Maris’ single-season home run record. Despite not leading the league in home runs in those seasons, Sosa did lead the league in 2000 with 50 home runs and in 2002 with 49. Sosa’s career also faced controversy. In a 2005 congressional hearing, he denied using performance-enhancing drugs. In 2024, Sosa admitted to having made “mistakes” recovering from injuries during his career.