Michael Joseph Piazza is widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive catchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Over his 16-season career, from 1992 to 2007, Piazza made a significant impact on the game, particularly with his power-hitting ability. He played for several teams, most notably the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets, and was a 12-time All-Star and 10-time Silver Slugger Award winner. Piazza's offensive prowess was unmatched at his position, as he set the record for most home runs by a catcher, with 396 of his 427 career home runs coming while playing behind the plate. His .308 career batting average and 1,335 RBIs further solidified his place among the elite in baseball history.

Piazza's journey to the Major Leagues is a story of perseverance and opportunity. Drafted by the Dodgers in the 1988 MLB Draft as a favor from Tommy Lasorda to Piazza's father, he was the last player selected in his draft class to make it to the big leagues. Initially a first baseman, Piazza transitioned to catcher in the minor leagues at Lasorda's suggestion, a move that would ultimately define his career. He made his MLB debut in 1992 and quickly became a star, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 1993. His ability to hit for both power and average made him a standout player, and his best season with the Dodgers came in 1997 when he batted .362 with 40 home runs and 124 RBIs.

In 1998, Piazza was traded twice in a matter of days, first to the Florida Marlins and then to the New York Mets, where he would spend the majority of the remainder of his career. Piazza's time with the Mets was marked by several memorable moments, including helping the team reach the 2000 World Series, the only World Series appearance of his career. He also set a franchise record by driving in at least one RBI in 15 consecutive games in 2000, the second-longest streak in MLB history. After leaving the Mets in 2005, Piazza played one season each with the San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics before retiring in 2007.

Piazza's legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016, receiving 82.95% of the vote. He chose to wear a Mets cap on his Hall of Fame plaque, a testament to the impact he had on the franchise and its fans. In addition to his baseball career, Piazza has also ventured into soccer ownership, briefly owning the Italian club A.C. Reggiana 1919. Today, he continues to contribute to the sport as the manager of the Italian national baseball team. Piazza's influence on the game of baseball, particularly as an offensive catcher, remains unparalleled.

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