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- In 1992, Gary became the youngest batting champion since Tommy Davis in 1963.
- Gary is one of only a handful of athletes to compete in the Little League World Series and the major league World Series. Others include Boog Powell, Rick Wise, Carney Lansford, Derek Bell and Charlie Hayes.
- Gary’s 1980 Little League team was invited to Yankee Stadium. He still has a picture of the kids posing with Reggie Jackson.
- When Gary began his pro career in 1986, he asked his stepfather to handle his day-to-day finances. Harold refused, telling Gary that if he couldn’t handle a $12,000-a-year salary, how could he expect to deal with a six- or seven-figure paycheck?
- In 1992, Gary and Fred McGriff became the first teammates to homer back-to-back twice in the same game since Ernie Banks and Dee Fondy did it for the Cubs in 1955.
- Gary was named NL Comeback Player of the Year in 1992.
- Gary’s switch to the outfield in 1994 was helped by Marlins coach Vada Pinson.
- Gary’s friendship with Barry Bonds, which began in 1995, coincided with his soaring walk totals. The two sluggers often discuss the virtues of patience at the plate.
- Gary hit two home runs in an inning for the Marlins in 1997.
- As of the start of the 2004 season, Gary was the Florida Marlins’ all-time home run leader.
- Gary’s next-door neighbor in San Diego was Fred McGriff. The two also had lockers next to each other in the Padre clubhouse. Both players grew up in Tampa.
- Gary fathered two children—Ebony and Carissa—at 16 and 17. His parents raised one, and the other remained with the mother. Gary’s third child, Gary Jr., was born in 1994.
- Gary is a footwear
fanatic. He owns more than 300 pairs of shoes.
Tommy Davis, TCMA
The 1960s
Vada Pinson, 1970
Topps Super