View source for Eric Hinske

{{short description|American baseball player (born 1977)}}
{{Use American English|date=December 2022}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox baseball biography
| name=Eric Hinske
| image=Eric Hinske during warmups, March 30, 2023 (cropped).jpg
| caption=Hinske with the Mets in 2023
| team=
| number=
| position=[[Third baseman]] / [[Outfielder]] / [[First baseman]]
| birth_date={{birth date and age|1977|8|5}}
| birth_place=[[Menasha, Wisconsin]], U.S.
| bats=Left
| throws=Right
|debutleague = MLB
| debutdate=April 1
| debutyear=2002
| debutteam=Toronto Blue Jays
|finalleague = MLB
| finaldate  = June 27
| finalyear  = 2013
| finalteam  = Arizona Diamondbacks
|statleague = MLB
| stat1label=[[Batting average (baseball)|Batting average]]
| stat1value=.249
| stat2label=[[Home run]]s
| stat2value=137
| stat3label=[[Run batted in|Runs batted in]]
| stat3value=522
| teams=
;As player
* [[Toronto Blue Jays]] ({{mlby|2002}}–{{mlby|2006}})
* [[Boston Red Sox]] ({{mlby|2006}}–{{mlby|2007}})
* [[Tampa Bay Rays]] ({{mlby|2008}})
* [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] ({{mlby|2009}})
* [[New York Yankees]] ({{mlby|2009}})
* [[Atlanta Braves]] ({{mlby|2010}}–{{mlby|2012}})
* [[Arizona Diamondbacks]] ({{mlby|2013}})
;As coach
* [[Chicago Cubs]] ({{mlby|2014}}–{{mlby|2017}})
* [[Los Angeles Angels]] ({{mlby|2018}})
* [[Arizona Diamondbacks]] ({{mlby|2019}}–{{mlby|2021}})
* [[New York Mets]] ({{mlby|2023}})
|awards     = 
*3× [[World Series champion]] ({{wsy|2007}}, {{wsy|2009}}, {{wsy|2016}})
*[[Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award|AL Rookie of the Year]] (2002)
}}
'''Eric Scott Hinske''' (born August 5, 1977) is an American professional [[baseball]] [[Coach (sport)|coach]] and former [[outfielder]] and [[first baseman]]. Hinske played in the major leagues from 2002 to 2013 with the [[Toronto Blue Jays]], [[Boston Red Sox]], [[Tampa Bay Rays]], [[Pittsburgh Pirates]], [[New York Yankees]], [[Atlanta Braves]] and [[Arizona Diamondbacks]] at [[third base]], first base, [[left field]], and [[right field]]. He won the {{by|2002}} [[Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award|AL Rookie of the Year Award]] with the Blue Jays. He has also been a coach for the [[Chicago Cubs]] and [[Los Angeles Angels]].

==Amateur career ==
Born in [[Menasha, Wisconsin]], Hinske played for [[Menasha High School]] where he broke many hitting records, in addition to playing [[American football|football]] as a [[running back]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rogers |first=Carroll |date=June 17, 2010 |title=Hinske made a fan out of Falcons QB Matt Ryan |url=http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2010/06/17/hinske-made-a-fan-out-of-falcons-qb-matt-ryan/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_braves_blog |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100627201700/http://blogs.ajc.com/atlanta-braves-blog/2010/06/17/hinske-made-a-fan-out-of-falcons-qb-matt-ryan/?cxntfid=blogs_atlanta_braves_blog |archive-date=June 27, 2010 |access-date=June 18, 2010 |website=[[Atlanta Journal-Constitution]]}}</ref> He initially intended to play football and baseball at the [[University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh]], which was 15 minutes from his home.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Bordelon |first=Scottie |date=July 4, 2020 |title=Best Hogs in pro baseball No. 7: Hinske a good luck charm for clubs {{!}} Whole Hog Sports |url=https://www.wholehogsports.com/news/2020/jul/04/best-hogs-pro-baseball-no-7-hinske-good-luck-charm/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=www.wholehogsports.com |language=en}}</ref>

The [[University of Arkansas]] ultimately offered him a full scholarship to play baseball. Between 1996 and 1998, he hit .345 during his time at Arkansas. He also ranked within the top 10 in school history for several offensive categories, including RBI, runs scored, and extra base hits. In 1997, Hinske set a school record with 87 runs scored.<ref name=":0" />

In 1997, he played [[collegiate summer baseball]] for the [[Hyannis Mets]] of the [[Cape Cod Baseball League]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Major League Baseball Players From the Cape Cod League |url=http://capecodbaseball.org.ismmedia.com/ISM3/std-content/repos/Top/2012website/archives/Current%20Year/All_Time_MLB_CCBL_Alumni.pdf |access-date=September 25, 2019 |publisher=capecodbaseball.org}}</ref>

==Professional career==

===Chicago Cubs===
The [[Chicago Cubs]] selected Hinske in the 17th round of the [[1998 Major League Baseball Draft|1998 amateur draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 Chicago Cubs Draft Class - The Baseball Cube |url=https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/draft_class/1998~6/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=TheBaseballCube.com |language=en}}</ref> He began his professional career in Short Season A-ball with the [[Williamsport Crosscutters|Williamsport Cubs]] of the [[New York–Penn League|New York-Penn League]].<ref name=":0" /> After hitting .298 with nine home runs and 57 RBI over 68 games, he moved over to the [[Rockford Expos|Rockford Cubbies]] of the [[Midwest League]]. 

Hinske spent most of the 1999 season in High-A with the [[Daytona Tortugas|Daytona Cubs]] of the [[Florida State League]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=April 11, 1999 |title=CUBS YOUNG BUT TALENTED |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/1999/04/11/cubs-young-but-talented/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Orlando Sentinel |language=en-US}}</ref> He had an All-Star year, hitting .259 with 20 home runs and 73 RBI in 131 games.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kernan |first=Sean |date=August 27, 2012 |title=All-time team in honor of 20 years of Daytona Cubs baseball |url=https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/2012/08/27/all-time-team-in-honor-of-20-years-of-daytona-cubs-baseball/64264944007/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Daytona Beach News-Journal Online |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2000, Hinske played for the [[Jackson Generals|West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx]] in Double-A. He hit .259 with 20 home runs and 73 RBI in 131 games for the [[Southern League (1964–present)|Southern League]] champions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Springs |first=Tyler |date=March 30, 2017 |title=Two Decades A Team: Celebrating The 20th Year of Baseball in Jackson |url=https://jacksongenerals.wordpress.com/2017/03/30/two-decades-a-team-celebrating-the-20th-year-of-baseball-in-jackson/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Generally Speaking |language=en}}</ref> 

===Oakland Athletics===
The [[Oakland Athletics]] acquired Hinske from the Cubs for [[Miguel Cairo]] on March 28, 2001.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 29, 2001 |title=The Index-Journal from Greenwood, South Carolina |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/70522836/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Newspapers.com |language=en-US}}</ref> Hinske was assigned to Triple-A Sacramento for the 2001 season. He hit .282 with 25 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and 79 RBI in 121 for the [[Sacramento River Cats|River Cats]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Verducci |first=Tom |title=Inside Baseball |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/2002/07/01/inside-baseball |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Sports Illustrated Vault {{!}} SI.com |language=en-us}}</ref>

===Toronto Blue Jays===
On December 7, 2001, Toronto Blue Jays general manager [[J. P. Ricciardi]] acquired Hinske and reliever [[Justin Miller (baseball, born 1977)|Justin Miller]] from the Athletics for [[Billy Koch]], a move designed to bring youth and vitality to the team.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Julien|first=Daniel|title=The Ricciardi Project – J.P. Ricciardi Trade Analysis|url=http://danjulien.atspace.com/ricciardi.htm#1|access-date=April 2, 2021|website=Daniel Julien}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Slusser |first=Susan |date=December 8, 2001 |title=Koch 'blown away' by trade to Oakland / A's get closer to replace Izzy |url=https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Koch-blown-away-by-trade-to-Oakland-A-s-get-2843441.php |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=SFGATE |language=en}}</ref>

Hinske was inserted in the everyday lineup in 2002, playing third base. While criticized early for his defense,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brattain |first=John |date=November 30, 2001 |title=The Blue Jays' Lineup: Will the Changes Make a Difference? |url=https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/1352/the-blue-jays-lineup-will-the-changes-make-a-difference/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Baseball Prospectus}}</ref> he made up for it with his bat, hitting .279 with 24 [[home run]]s, 13 stolen bases, and 84 RBI. He is one of three rookies in Blue Jays history to hit 21 or more home runs, along with [[J. P. Arencibia]] (23 in 2011) and [[Rowdy Tellez]] (21 in 2019).<ref>{{cite web|date=September 25, 2019|title=Tellez hits two solo HRs as Blue Jays beat Orioles 3–2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191001030403/https://wtop.com/baltimore-orioles/2019/09/tellez-hits-two-solo-hrs-as-blue-jays-beat-orioles-3-2/|url=https://wtop.com/baltimore-orioles/2019/09/tellez-hits-two-solo-hrs-as-blue-jays-beat-orioles-3-2/|archive-date=October 1, 2019|access-date=October 2, 2019|publisher=WTOP}}</ref> He also led all AL third basemen in errors, with 22. Hinske won the [[MLB Rookie of the Year award|MLB Rookie of the Year]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 4, 2002 |title=Hinske, Jennings make marks as Rookies of the Year |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/2002/1104/1455662.html |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=ESPN}}</ref> and [[The Sporting News Rookie of the Year Award|''The Sporting News'' Rookie of the Year]] awards.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=October 23, 2002 |title=The Sporting News names Rodriguez Player of Year |url=https://www.chieftain.com/story/sports/2002/10/23/the-sporting-news-names-rodriguez/9083942007/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Pueblo Chieftain |language=en-US}}</ref>

Following Hinske's successful 2002 campaign, the Blue Jays signed him to a five-year, $14.75 million contract in March 2003.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 17, 2003 |title=Blue Jays agree to five-year deals with Wells, Hinske |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/2003/0317/1525241.html |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=ESPN}}</ref> He struggled during the first two months of the season, hitting just .230 with two home runs through May 23.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2003 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2003 |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Hinske was finally diagnosed with a broken [[hamate]] bone in his right hand and underwent surgery, missing a month of playing time.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 26, 2003 |title=Toronto's Hinske Sidelined for Surgery |url=https://www.theintelligencer.com/news/article/Toronto-s-Hinske-Sidelined-for-Surgery-10477623.php |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=The Edwardsville Intelligencer |language=en-US}}</ref> As a result, he was unable to match his numbers of the previous year, finishing with an average of .243, 12 home runs and 63 RBI in 2003.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gleeman |first=Aaron |date=April 13, 2005 |title=The Sophomore Slump |url=https://tht.fangraphs.com/the-sophomore-slump/ |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=The Hardball Times}}</ref>

Hinske was still unable to return to his rookie form in 2004, finishing the year with a batting average of .246, with 15 home runs and 69 [[runs batted in|RBI]]. A positive note for Hinske was that he had committed a career-low seven errors at third base and led all third baseman in fielding percentage (.978). After the season, the Blue Jays were said to be looking to trade Hinske.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 27, 2004 |title=Jays courting Twins' Koskie: report |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/jays-courting-twins-koskie-report-1.501227 |website=CBC Sports}}</ref> Instead, the team ultimately acquired third basemen [[Corey Koskie]]<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=December 13, 2004 |title=Into the Blue: Koskie, Jays finalize deal |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1945093 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> and [[Shea Hillenbrand]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 11, 2005 |title=Blue Jays trade for Hillenbrand: report |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/blue-jays-trade-for-hillenbrand-report-1.530241 |access-date=January 27, 2024 |website=CBC Sports}}</ref> and moved Hinske to first base.<ref name=":1" /> He started the 2005 season strong with a .290 batting average, six home runs, and 25 RBI through the end of May.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2005 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2005 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> However, he hit just .247 with nine home runs and 43 RBI the rest of the way.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2005 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2005 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

Toronto acquired [[Lyle Overbay]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2005 |title=Blue Jays keep busy, acquire 1B Overbay from Brewers |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2251952 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> and [[Troy Glaus]]<ref>{{Cite news |last=Millson |first=Larry |date=December 24, 2005 |title=Blue Jays get Glaus from Arizona |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/blue-jays-get-glaus-from-arizona/article18255952/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}</ref> after the 2005 season, forcing Hinske to shift to the outfield.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chass |first=Murray |date=January 1, 2006 |title=Blue Jays Get in the Game |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/01/sports/baseball/blue-jays-get-in-the-game.html |access-date=January 28, 2024 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> He began the 2006 season in a platoon with [[Alex Ríos]] in right field, before the latter won the job after a solid April.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Couture |first=Jon |date=August 19, 2006 |title=Happy Hinske off to hot start |url=https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/sports/2006/08/19/happy-hinske-off-to-hot/50287056007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=New Bedford Standard-Times |language=en-US}}</ref> Hinske gained playing time when Rios was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a staph infection suffered after fouling a ball off his leg.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Blue Jays 5-2 Phillies (Jul 1, 2006) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/260701114 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128035330/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/260701114 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=June 30, 2006 |title=Rios hospitalized with infection |url=https://www.augustachronicle.com/story/sports/mlb/2006/06/30/bas-87225-shtml/14760730007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Augusta Chronicle |language=en-US}}</ref> Following the high-profile exit of Hillenbrand in July, Hinske gained even more opportunity to play.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 22, 2006 |title=Giants acquire Hillenbrand from Jays |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=2526825 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref>

===Boston Red Sox===
[[File:Eric Hinske.jpg|150px|thumb|left|Hinske with the [[Boston Red Sox]] in 2007]]
On August 17, 2006, Hinske was traded to the [[Boston Red Sox]] for a minor league player to be named later and cash considerations.<ref>{{cite web|date=August 17, 2006|title=Red Sox acquire infielder-outfielder Eric Hinske from Toronto Blue Jays|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304080417/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20060817&content_id=1614720&vkey=pr_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20060817&content_id=1614720&vkey=pr_bos&fext=.jsp&c_id=bos|archive-date=March 4, 2016|access-date=August 24, 2015|website=[[Boston Red Sox]]|publisher=}}</ref> His versatility helped the Red Sox, since they were greatly plagued by injuries in the second half of the season. He played first base and both corner outfield positions, and hit .342 in the last month of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2006 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2006 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

On May 17, 2007, Hinske had what could be considered the highlight of his Red Sox career against the [[Detroit Tigers]]. In the 5th inning of the game, [[Mike Rabelo]] hit a fly ball that seemed destined to find a hole.in right field. However, Hinske made a full-body diving catch, hitting the warning track face first. Later, in the bottom of the 7th inning, he would hit a go-ahead two-run home run.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Red Sox 4-2 Tigers (May 17, 2007) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/270517302 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128041248/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/270517302 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> Hinske hit below his career norms with a .204 batting average and a .733 OPS in 84 games that year. He was included on the Red Sox playoff roster and received his first [[World Series ring]] with them.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Booth |first=Randy |date=October 23, 2007 |title=Red Sox World Series roster Official |url=https://www.overthemonster.com/2007/10/23/211652/13 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Over the Monster |language=en}}</ref>

===Tampa Bay Rays===
[[File:Eric Hinske bats 4 lr.jpg|230px|thumb|Hinske batting for the [[Tampa Bay Rays]] on April 24, 2008.]]
On February 6, 2008, Hinske signed a minor-league contract with an invitation to [[spring training]] with the Tampa Bay Rays. He was added to the 40-man major league roster on March 29, and was the Rays opening-day right-fielder.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=March 30, 2008 |title=Pettitte proclaims himself ready |url=https://www.bostonherald.com/2008/03/30/pettitte-proclaims-himself-ready/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Boston Herald |language=en-US}}</ref> In his Rays debut, Hinske homered to right field off Baltimore starter [[Jeremy Guthrie]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rays 6-2 Orioles (Mar 31, 2008) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280331101 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102131418/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280331101 |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 2, 2023 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> 

On July 29, Hinske hit his 100th career home run off former Toronto Blue Jays teammate [[Roy Halladay]]. There was controversy as to whether or not it was an inside the park home run. It was later officially ruled a traditional home run, after it was thought to have hit an awning in center field.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rays 3-0 Blue Jays (Jul 29, 2008) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280729114 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128142748/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280729114 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> On the final day of the regular season, Hinske hit his 20th home run, drove in his 60th run, and stole his 10th base of the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rays 8-7 Tigers (Sep 28, 2008) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280928106 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128142749/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/280928106 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> It was the first time he had hit twenty home runs since his rookie year of 2002, and the first time he had stolen ten bases or more since the 2004 season.

Hinske was on the team's initial playoff roster but did not play in the [[2008 American League Division Series|American League Division Series]] and was replaced by [[Edwin Jackson (baseball)|Edwin Jackson]] for the [[2008 American League Championship Series|ALCS]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scanlon |first=Dick |date=October 9, 2008 |title=Jackson On Roster; Percival, Hinske Out |url=https://www.theledger.com/story/news/2008/10/10/rays-will-add-pitcher-edwin-jackson-to-roster-percival-hinske-out/25956919007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Ledger |language=en-US}}</ref> Prior to Game 4 of the [[2008 World Series|World Series]], Hinske was added to the Rays' roster, replacing the injured [[Cliff Floyd]]. In the fifth inning of Game 4, Hinske hit an estimated 410-foot pinch-hit home run to center field off Philadelphia starter [[Joe Blanton]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 26, 2008 |title=Hinske homers in pinch after joining Rays' roster |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3665713 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Phillies 10-2 Rays (Oct 26, 2008) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/281026122 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128142748/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/281026122 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> He made the final out of the World Series, striking out against [[Philadelphia Phillies]] closer [[Brad Lidge]] in Game 5.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phillies 4-3 Rays (Oct 27, 2008) Final Score |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/game/_/gameId/281027122 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref>

===Pittsburgh Pirates===
[[File:Eric Hinske 2009.jpg|150px|thumb|left|Hinske with the [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] in 2009]]
On January 30, 2009, Hinske signed a one-year deal with the [[Pittsburgh Pirates]] worth $1.5&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web|date=January 30, 2009|title=Pirates sign free agent Eric Hinske|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211140739/http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090130&content_id=3785890&vkey=pr_pit&fext=.jsp&c_id=pit|url=http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090130&content_id=3785890&vkey=pr_pit&fext=.jsp&c_id=pit|archive-date=February 11, 2009|access-date=August 24, 2015|website=[[Pittsburgh Pirates]]|publisher=}}</ref> He missed time in spring training after injuring his rib cage running into the outfield wall.<ref>{{Cite web |last=BALOG |first=TOM |title=Former Ray Hinske adds veteran power |url=https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2009/03/19/former-ray-hinske-adds-veteran-power/28700465007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Sarasota Herald-Tribune |language=en-US}}</ref> Hinske played 54 games for the team, batting .255 with 11 RBI and 17 walks mostly off the bench.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2009 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2009 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

===New York Yankees===
[[File:DSC 0105 Eric Hinske.jpg|thumb|right|Hinske with the Yankees in 2009]]
On June 30, Hinske was traded from the Pirates to the New York Yankees in exchange for [[Eric Fryer (baseball)|Eric Fryer]] and Casey Erickson.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gleeman |first=Aaron |date=June 30, 2009 |title=Yankees acquire Eric Hinske from Pirates |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/yankees-acquire-eric-hinske-from-pirates-1 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Kepner|first=Tyler|date=July 1, 2009|title=In Hinske, Yanks Add Versatility|language=en-US|work=[[The New York Times]]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/01/sports/baseball/01yanknotes.html|access-date=April 2, 2021|issn=0362-4331}}</ref> With New York he hit .226 with seven home runs in 84 at-bats over 39 games. Hinske was included in the Yankees' initial postseason roster for the first round of the 2009 [[American League Division Series]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carig |first=Marc |date=October 7, 2009 |title=NY Yankees release postseason roster |url=https://www.nj.com/yankees/2009/10/ny_yankees_release_postseason.html |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Star-Ledger |language=en}}</ref> He was replaced by pinch runner [[Freddy Guzmán|Freddy Guzman]] for the [[2009 American League Championship Series]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 15, 2009 |title=Freddy Guzman to add speed to New York Yankees' playoff roster for ALCS |url=https://www.nydailynews.com/2009/10/15/freddy-guzman-to-add-speed-to-new-york-yankees-playoff-roster-for-alcs/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=New York Daily News |language=en-US}}</ref> but returned to the roster for the World Series.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Augustine |first=Bernie |date=October 28, 2009 |title=Yankees finalize World Series roster |url=https://www.silive.com/yankees/2009/10/yankees_finalize_world_series.html |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=silive |language=en}}</ref> This marked his third straight World Series appearance with his third different team, all from the AL East. Additionally, the Yankees win gave him his second [[World Series ring]].

===Atlanta Braves===
[[File:DSC00829 Eric Hinske.jpg|alt=|thumb|left|242x242px|Hinske with the Atlanta Braves]]
On January 5, 2010, it was reported that Hinske signed a one-year deal worth $1.5&nbsp;million with the [[Atlanta Braves]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=January 6, 2010|title=Report: Hinske, Braves agree to one-year deal|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=4802723|access-date=April 2, 2021|website=[[ESPN]]|language=en}}</ref> In his first Braves at-bat he hit a triple.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Braves 16-5 Cubs (Apr 5, 2010) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300405115 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128151130/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300405115 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> He hit his first home run as a Brave on May 16.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Braves 13-1 Diamondbacks (May 16, 2010) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300516115 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240128151129/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/300516115 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 28, 2024 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> With the Braves fighting for the NL Wild Card spot over the last week of the season, Hinske delivered a clutch go-ahead, two-run home run against the Marlins on September 29.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Braves 3-2 Marlins (Sep 28, 2010) Final Score |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/game/_/gameId/300928115 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Hinske's pinch-hit homer leads Braves to 3-2 win |url=https://www.goupstate.com/story/sports/mlb/2010/09/28/hinskes-pinch-hit-homer-leads-braves-to-3-2-win/29839682007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Spartanburg Herald Journal |language=en-US}}</ref> Over the season, he appeared in 131&nbsp;games, hitting .256 with 11 home runs and 51 RBI. He hit three home runs and drove in 12 runs as a pinch-hitter.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Meet the Braves: Eric Hinske |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/other/meet-the-braves-eric-hinske |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=FOX Sports |language=en-US}}</ref> 

He made it to the postseason for the fourth straight year and hit a dramatic go-ahead, [[Pinch hitter|pinch-hit]], two-run home run in the eighth inning of Game 3 of the [[2010 National League Division Series|NLDS]] against the [[San Francisco Giants]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Jeff |date=October 10, 2010 |title=Braves Vs. Giants, NLDS Game 3: Eric Hinske Blasts Dramatic Go-Ahead Home Run |url=https://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2010/10/10/1742807/braves-vs-giants-nlds-game-3-eric-hinske-home-run |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=SBNation.com |language=en}}</ref> However, the Braves ultimately lost the game<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Jeff |date=October 10, 2010 |title=Brooks Conrad Errors, Bullpen Struggles Lead To Heartbreak For Braves |url=https://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2010/10/10/1742897/brooks-conrad-error-braves-bullpen-giants-nlds-game-3 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=SBNation.com |language=en}}</ref> and were eliminated in four games. 

On December 2, the Braves re-signed Hinske to a one-year deal with an option for 2012.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Calcaterra|first=Craig|date=December 2, 2010|title=Eric Hinske signs with the Braves|url=https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2010/12/02/eric-hinske-signs-with-the-braves/|access-date=April 2, 2021|website=[[NBC Sports]]|language=en-US}}</ref> He was primarily used as a bat off the bench and played the corner outfield positions. On June 3, 2011, Hinske hit a go-ahead solo homer off Mets closer [[Francisco Rodriguez (baseball, born 1982)|Francisco Rodriguez]] to help the Braves win 6–3<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 3, 2011 |title=Eric Hinske homers to cap Braves' rally past Mets |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310603121 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419052633/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310603121 |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 19, 2023 |access-date=April 2, 2021 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> He hit .233 with 10 home runs and 28 RBI that year, hitting .310 with runners in scoring position and two outs.<ref name=":2" />

The Braves picked up their option on Hinske for the 2012 season.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 23, 2024 |title=Braves pick up club option on Eric Hinske |url=https://www.columbian.com/news/2011/oct/31/braves-pick-up-club-option-on-eric-hinske/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Columbian |language=en-US}}</ref> On May 5, he went 4–4 against the Colorado Rockies, including a tie-breaking two-run homer in the 11th inning.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Braves 9-8 Rockies (May 4, 2012) Final Score |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/game/_/gameId/320504127 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}}</ref> On May 11, Hinske was ejected by umpire [[Mike Muchlinski]] after Muchlinski ruled that Hinske had not checked his swing and was out on strikes.<ref>{{cite web|author=Overbey|first=Steve|date=May 11, 2012|title=Pinch-hitter Hinske ejected in eighth inning|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023063614/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120511&content_id=30994962&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120511&content_id=30994962&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb|archive-date=October 23, 2013|access-date=May 12, 2012|work=[[MLB.com]]}}</ref> He made just two starts after the All-Star break and hit .197 with two home runs and 13 RBI in 132 at-bats for the Braves that year.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Ex-Braves slugger Eric Hinske to sign with Diamondbacks |url=https://www.augustachronicle.com/story/sports/mlb/2012/12/04/ex-braves-slugger-eric-hinske-sign-diamondbacks/14473107007/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Augusta Chronicle |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Eric Hinske 2012 Batting Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=hinsker01&t=b&year=2012 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

===Arizona Diamondbacks===
On December 4, 2012, Hinske signed a one-year deal with the [[Arizona Diamondbacks]].<ref>{{cite web|date=December 4, 2012|title=Eric Hinske agrees with D-backs|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/8712379/eric-hinske-arizona-diamondbacks-agree-one-year-deal|access-date=December 5, 2012|work=[[ESPN]]}}</ref> After passing a physical, the contract became official on December 6, 2012.<ref>{{cite magazine|date=December 7, 2012|title=Diamondbacks finalize deals with Hinske, Nieves|url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2012/12/07/diamondbacks-nieves-hinske-ap|access-date=August 24, 2015|magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]}}</ref> Hinske was suspended for five games for his actions during a brawl between the Diamondbacks and the [[Los Angeles Dodgers]] on June 11, 2013.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Calcaterra|first=Craig|date=June 14, 2013|title=MLB hands down the suspensions for Tuesday night's Dodgers-Diamondbacks melee|url=https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2013/06/14/mlb-hands-down-the-suspensions-for-tuesday-nights-dodgers-diamondbacks-mele/|access-date=April 3, 2021|website=[[NBC Sports]]|language=en-US}}</ref> The suspension was later reduced to only one game.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 25, 2013|title=Hinske suspension reduced from 5 games to 1|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/9422724/eric-hinske-arizona-diamondback-suspension-reduced-5-games-1|access-date=April 3, 2021|website=[[ESPN]]|language=en}}</ref> After hitting .173 with one home run and six RBI in 52 games, he was designated for assignment on June 28.<ref>{{Cite web|date=June 28, 2013|title=D-backs reinstate third baseman Eric Chavez from DL, Eric Hinske designated for assignment|url=https://arizonasports.com/story/27859/d-backs-reinstate-third-baseman-eric-chavez-from-dl-eric-hinske-designated-for-assignment/|access-date=April 3, 2021|website=Arizona Sports}}</ref>

==Scouting and coaching==
Following the 2013 season, Hinske was hired as a scout by the Yankees. He helped convince [[Brian McCann (baseball)|Brian McCann]] to sign with the team. After a month with the organization, he was hired by the [[Chicago Cubs]] to be their first base coach on December 3, 2013.<ref name="nydailynews">{{cite web|last=McCarron|first=Anthony|date=December 8, 2013|title=Joe Girardi's Yankees coaching staff taking shape – New York Daily News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131209075422/http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/yankees/2013/12/joe-girardis-yankees-coaching-staff-taking-shape|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/yankees/2013/12/joe-girardis-yankees-coaching-staff-taking-shape|archive-date=December 9, 2013|access-date=January 12, 2014|work=[[New York Daily News]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gonzales|first=Mark|date=December 3, 2013|title=Cubs name Hinske first base coach|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-chicago-cubs-eric-hinske-20131203,0,4815259.story|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204010919/https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/breaking/chi-chicago-cubs-eric-hinske-20131203,0,4815259.story|archive-date=December 4, 2013|access-date=August 24, 2015|work=[[Chicago Tribune]]}}</ref> After the 2014 season, the Yankees considered naming Hinske the team's next hitting coach. However, he ultimately stayed with Chicago and was named assistant hitting coach.<ref>{{Cite web |last=King III |first=George A. |date=October 24, 2014 |title=Eric Hinske turns down Yankees after hitting coach overture |url=https://nypost.com/2014/10/24/eric-hinske-turns-down-yankees-after-hitting-coach-overture/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=New York Post |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2016, Hinske won his third [[World Series ring]] when the Cubs defeated the Indians in the [[2016 World Series]]. 

He was hired by the [[Los Angeles Angels]] on October 23, 2017, to be their hitting coach.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Skrbina |first=Paul |date=October 23, 2017 |title=Cubs assistant Eric Hinske takes hitting coach job with Angels |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/cubs/ct-eric-hinske-cubs-angels-hitting-coach-20171023-story.html |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> After one season, he was replaced by [[Jeremy Reed]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Torres|first=Maria|date=November 2, 2018|title=Angels promote Jeremy Reed to hitting coach|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/angels/la-sp-angles-hitting-coach-20181102-story.html|access-date=April 2, 2021|website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|language=en-US}}</ref> He was hired as the assistant hitting coach by the [[Arizona Diamondbacks]] in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 27, 2018 |title=D-backs hire Coles, Hinske as hitting coaches |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/25388377/diamondbacks-hire-darnell-coles-eric-hinske-hitting-coaches |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> On June 10, 2021, Hinske and hitting coach [[Darnell Coles]] were relieved of their positions with the club.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2021/06/diamondbacks-part-ways-with-hitting-coaches-darnell-coles-and-eric-hinske.html|title=Diamondbacks Part Ways with Hitting Coaches Darnell Coles and Eric Hinske|date=June 10, 2021 }}</ref> 

On January 3, 2023, the [[New York Mets]] announced that Hinske was hired to be the team's assistant hitting coach for the 2023 season.<ref>{{cite news |title=Eric Hinske joins Mets as assistant hitting coach |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/35433160/eric-hinske-joins-new-york-mets-assistant-hitting-coach |access-date=January 13, 2023 |work=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press |date=January 12, 2023}}</ref> He was not retained for the 2024 season following the hiring of [[Carlos Mendoza (baseball manager)|Carlos Mendoza]] as Mets manager.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 4, 2023 |title=Mets announce 2024 coaching staff |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-mets-announce-2024-coaching-staff |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref>

==Personal life==
Hinske and wife Kathryn have three children, Ava, Dylan, and A.J.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 23, 2017 |title=Eric Hinske Named Angels Hitting Coach |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/eric-hinske-named-angels-hitting-coach-259444458 |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}</ref> In 2016, Hinske's hometown Menasha honored his professional achievements by dedicating a street in his name.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Froberg |first=Tim |date=December 15, 2016 |title=Menasha honors Eric Hinske with honorary street name |url=https://www.postcrescent.com/story/sports/2016/12/15/menasha-honors-eric-hinske-honorary-street-name/95493194/ |access-date=January 28, 2024 |website=The Post-Crescent |language=en-US}}</ref>

Hinske enjoys listening to [[metal music]], and his walk-up song was "[[Walk (Pantera song)|Walk]]" by [[Pantera]]. Hinske has a large set of [[tattoo]]s incorporating Japanese iconography that completely cover his back.<ref>{{cite web|date=July 6, 2010|title=Eric Hinske's Massive Back Tattoo|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100710200331/http://zonersports.com/2010/07/eric-hinskes-massive-back-tattoo/|url=http://zonersports.com/2010/07/eric-hinskes-massive-back-tattoo/|archive-date=July 10, 2010|access-date=July 21, 2010|publisher=Zoner Sports}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Portal|Baseball}}
{{baseballstats|mlb=400134|espn=4606|br=h/hinsker01|fangraphs=1305|brm=hinske001eri}}

{{S-start}}
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{{Succession box|title=[[Baseball America Rookie of the Year]]|years=2002|before=[[Albert Pujols]]|after=[[Brandon Webb]]}}
{{Succession box|before=[[Ichiro Suzuki]]|title=[[Players Choice Award|Players Choice AL Most Outstanding Rookie]]|years=2002|after=[[Ángel Berroa]]}}
{{Succession box|before=[[Albert Pujols]]|title=[[Topps All-Star Rookie Rosters|Topps Rookie All-Star Third Baseman]]|years=2002|after=[[Ty Wigginton]]}}
{{s-sports}}
{{succession box|title=[[Chicago Cubs]] [[coach (baseball)|first base coach]]|before=[[Dave McKay (baseball)|Dave McKay]]|after=[[Brandon Hyde]]|years=2014}}
{{succession box|title=[[Chicago Cubs]] [[coach (baseball)|assistant hitting coach]]|before=[[Mike Brumley (infielder)|Mike Brumley]]|after=[[Andy Haines]]|years=2015–2017}}
{{succession box|title=[[Los Angeles Angels]] [[coach (baseball)|Hitting Coach]]|before=[[Dave Hansen (baseball)|Dave Hansen]]|after=[[Jeremy Reed]]|years=2018}}
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{{AL Rookie of the Year}}
{{Sporting News MLB Rookie of the year}}
{{2007 Boston Red Sox}}
{{2009 New York Yankees}}
{{2016 Chicago Cubs}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Hinske, Eric}}
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