Milton Bernard Thompson

Milton Bernard Thompson transitioned from a distinguished Major League Baseball outfielder to a respected hitting coach and community leader, sharing his extensive baseball knowledge and commitment to youth development. After being drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 2nd round of the 1979 MLB January Draft following his time at Howard University, Milton Bernard Thompson made his Major League debut on September 4, 1984. Over his 13-year playing career in Major League Baseball, Thompson established himself as a prominent outfielder and pinch hitter, known for his left-handed batting. He accumulated a career batting average of .274, with 1,029 hits, 47 home runs, 357 runs batted in, and showcased his speed with 214 stolen bases.

In this pivotal role, he significantly contributed to the Phillies’ 2008 World Series championship, earning his first World Series ring. Thompson’s coaching expertise continued to be sought after, as he later served as a minor league outfield/base-running coordinator for the Houston Astros and as a coach for the Kansas City Royals’ Class A affiliate, the Wilmington Blue Rocks. Most recently, he served as a minor league hitting instructor for the Cincinnati Reds organization, continuing to develop emerging talent with his extensive knowledge of the game and solidifying his reputation as a respected hitting coach and community leader within professional baseball.