Brett Lawrie, born on January 18, 1990, in Langley, British Columbia, is a Canadian former professional baseball player known for his tenure as a third baseman and second baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB). His journey from the local fields of Langley to the grand stadiums of the MLB is a testament to his dedication and the supportive community that shaped his early years.​

Early Life and Local Roots

Growing up in Langley, Lawrie's passion for baseball was evident from a young age. He attended Brookswood Secondary School, where he honed his skills and showcased exceptional talent on the field. During his high school years, he played for the Langley Blaze, a prominent team in the British Columbia Premier Baseball League (BCPBL). The Blaze, established in 2001, have been instrumental in developing young athletes, and Lawrie's time with the team played a crucial role in his athletic development. ​

Rise to Prominence

Lawrie's impressive performances with the Langley Blaze and the Canadian Junior National Team caught the attention of major league scouts. In 2008, he was selected 16th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the MLB Draft, making him the highest-drafted Canadian position player at the time. His ascent continued as he represented Canada at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier prospect. ​

Major League Career

Lawrie made his MLB debut with the Toronto Blue Jays on August 5, 2011. Over the years, he also played for the Oakland Athletics and the Chicago White Sox. Throughout his MLB career, Lawrie maintained a batting average of .261, with 71 home runs and 253 runs batted in. ​

Giving Back to Langley

Despite his professional commitments, Lawrie remained connected to his hometown. In 2012, he participated in the grand opening of the Jays Care Community Clubhouse at the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast British Columbia-Langley Club. This initiative, supported by a $250,000 grant from the Jays Care Foundation, provided a recreational space inspired by the Blue Jays' clubhouse, serving over 250 children daily in the Douglas Park community. Lawrie's involvement underscored his dedication to giving back to the community that nurtured his early baseball aspirations. ​

Legacy and Inspiration

Brett Lawrie's journey from the baseball diamonds of Langley to the major leagues serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring athletes in British Columbia and beyond. His story highlights the importance of community support, dedication, and the pursuit of one's passion. Lawrie's connection to Langley remains a significant part of his identity, reflecting the profound impact of his roots on his professional achievements.​

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Brett Lawrie #Langley BC #Major League Baseball (MLB) #Langley Blaze #BC Premier Baseball League (BCPBL)

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