Justin Upton Career Overview and MLB Debut
Justin Upton made his MLB debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks on August 2, 2007, after being selected as the first overall pick in the 2005 MLB Draft. He was assigned the uniform number 25 and immediately positioned as a center fielder, compiling a .248 batting average, 10 home runs, and 30 RBIs in his rookie season. His early performance signaled a high-ceiling power hitter who would later become one of the most decorated switch-hitters of his generation, as detailed in his player profile on MLB.com https://www.mlb.com/player/justin-upton-462338
Before reaching the majors, Upton spent time in the minor leagues with the South Bend Silver Hawks and Visalia Oaks, refining his swing and defensive skills. He earned minor league All-Star honors and was ranked among the top prospects in the Diamondbacks system, setting the stage for his rapid ascent. His debut season marked the beginning of a career defined by consistent offensive production and multi-team moves that shaped his legacy.
Justin Upton Dates Joined Teams and Contract Moves
Detroit Tigers Signing and Trade to the San Diego Padres
Justin Upton joined the Detroit Tigers on December 9, 2012, via a trade that sent Ian Kinsler to the Rangers and brought Upton and Joe Nathan to Detroit. He signed a contract extension with the Tigers on March 25, 2014, locking in a nine-year, $132.75 million deal that made him one of the highest-paid outfielders in the league at the time. During his Tigers tenure, he posted multiple 30-homer seasons and earned All-Star selections, cementing his status as a premier slugger.
On August 31, 2017, Upton was traded to the San Diego Padres in exchange for a package that included Dustin Peterson and Jharel Cotton. He joined the Padres on September 1, 2017, and immediately contributed to their late-season push, batting .301 with three home runs and eight RBIs in 16 games. The Padres later re-signed him to a two-year, $33 million contract extension on December 15, 2017, securing his services through the 2019 season.
Atlanta Braves Acquisition and Later Moves
Justin Upton signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Atlanta Braves on February 11, 2022, reuniting with his brother B.J. Upton and adding veteran leadership to their outfield. He played a key role in the Braves' 2021 World Series championship run, though he joined the team after the postseason had already concluded. His presence in the Braves lineup provided switch-hitting depth and postseason experience during their competitive 2022 and 2023 seasons.
After the 2022 season, Upton became a free agent and later signed a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Angels on February 17, 2023, with an invitation to spring training. He was added to the Angels' active roster on March 28, 2023, and served as a veteran bat off the bench, appearing in 102 games and hitting .231 with 13 home runs. His time with the Angels marked the final chapter of a career defined by high-level offensive production and strategic team transitions.
Justin Upton Legacy, Rankings, and Career Statistics
All-Star Selections and Silver Slugger Honors
Justin Upton has been selected to four MLB All-Star Games, earning his first All-Star