Jason Kendall
The steady hand behind the plate who helped secure Arizona's first World Series championship.
Jason Kendall is a beloved figure in Arizona Diamondbacks history, serving as the team's primary catcher during their inaugural seasons and their historic run to the 2001 World Series title. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and ability to handle a powerful pitching staff, he was the steady presence behind the plate that anchored the franchise's early identity.
- role
- Catcher
- affiliation
- Arizona Diamondbacks (2001–2004)
- first_appears
- 2001 Season
- status
- Retired
- major_honor
- World Series Champion (2001)
- key_trait
- Defensive Excellence
Lore & Background
When the Diamondbacks signed Kendall in December 2000, they were looking for a veteran leader to stabilize their young roster. He arrived just as Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling were emerging as Cy Young contenders, and his ability to frame pitches and control the running game was instrumental in maximizing their potential. His arrival signaled that the franchise intended to compete immediately, not just build for the future.
Kendall's tenure is most defined by the 2001 postseason. As the team navigated a dramatic playoff run against the Braves and Giants before facing the New York Yankees, Kendall was the tactical mastermind behind the plate. His partnership with Randy Johnson in Game 7 of the World Series remains one of the most iconic duos in franchise history, showcasing his calm demeanor under immense pressure.
In Their Own Story
The Arizona sun beats down on Chase Field as the seventh game hangs in the balance. Behind home plate, Jason Kendall crouches low, his chest protector gleaming under the stadium lights. He calls for a slider, his voice steady despite the roar of the crowd. With a flick of his wrist to Randy Johnson, he sets up the final out that would etch his name into Diamondbacks lore forever.
Reader's Guide
Jason Kendall joined the Diamondbacks in 2001 after a long career with Pittsburgh and Cleveland, bringing immediate veteran stability to a young team. In Arizona, he played four seasons, batting .238 while posting an impressive .996 fielding percentage.
His signature moment arrived during the 2001 World Series against the Yankees. Kendall's defensive mastery helped suppress the high-powered New York offense, and his game-calling was crucial in securing the franchise's first championship. He was particularly effective in handling Randy Johnson's unique repertoire.
Though he left after the 2004 season to return to Pittsburgh, Kendall's impact on the organization remains profound. He set a standard for catching excellence that future Diamondbacks catchers would strive to emulate.
Did You Know?
- Kendall was the first catcher to hit a home run in the history of the Arizona Diamondbacks franchise.
- He is one of only two players in MLB history to record 10,000+ plate appearances as a primary catcher during his career.
- During the 2001 World Series, Kendall handled Randy Johnson's historic Game 7 performance perfectly.