Brad Komminsk – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Brad Komminsk once looked like baseball’s next big thing. The Atlanta Braves picked him fourth overall in the 1979 MLB Draft, and he immediately showed off a ton of promise in the minor leagues. With a rare mix of power and speed, scouts and front office folks couldn’t help but compare him to Dale Murphy, who was the Braves’ superstar at the time.

Brad Komminsk wrapped up his major league career in 1991 with the Oakland Athletics at just 30, never quite reaching the sky-high expectations that followed him from day one. He played his last MLB game on October 5, 1991, closing out a big-league journey that stretched across eight seasons and included stops with the Braves, Brewers, Indians, Orioles, Giants, and Athletics.

Even after his major league days ended, Komminsk didn’t immediately walk away from the game. He kept playing in the minors and even tried his hand in independent baseball, including a run as a player-coach for the Winnipeg Goldeyes in the Northern League in 1996 before finally calling it quits as a player. That stubborn love for baseball would eventually help him as he moved into a coaching role.

Biography of Brad Komminsk

Brad Lynn Komminsk’s baseball story started in Lima, Ohio and led him to become the Atlanta Braves’ fourth overall pick in the 1979 MLB draft. He spent parts of eight seasons in the majors before stepping away in 1991.

Early Life and Amateur Baseball

Brad Komminsk was born on April 4, 1961, in Lima, Ohio. He honed his baseball chops at Lima Senior High School, where he quickly became the standout of the team. His raw talent on the field turned him into one of the most sought-after high school prospects in the country.

Scouts flocked to his games, and it’s easy to see why. At 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, he already looked the part of a big-league outfielder.

In high school, Komminsk showed off all five tools—he could hit for average and power, run well, field his position, and throw with real strength. No wonder teams lined up for a shot at him.

First Round Draft Pick and Prospect Status

The Atlanta Braves grabbed Komminsk fourth overall in the 1979 amateur draft, making him one of the top picks that year. That high slot came with a mountain of expectation.

After signing, Komminsk wasted no time climbing prospect lists. His power and speed in the minors made people think he was the next big outfield star.

Baseball America regularly ranked him among the best prospects in the game during the early 1980s. They often talked about him as a potential franchise player for Atlanta.

He moved up through the Braves’ minor league system, putting up strong numbers and further cementing his status. By 1983, he made his MLB debut, kicking off a big-league career that would last until 1991.

Major League Baseball Career

Brad Komminsk played in the majors from 1983 to 1991, taking the field in 376 games across eight seasons and six teams. Expectations were huge, and honestly, that was a tough load to carry.

Major League Debut and Rookie Season

Komminsk made his MLB debut on August 14, 1983 with the Atlanta Braves. He was just 22, and everyone seemed to be waiting for him to break out, especially since he was such a high draft pick.

His rookie year had its moments, but like a lot of young players, he had to adjust to major league pitching. In his first partial season, he played 30 games for Atlanta—enough to get a taste of the show.

The Braves organization hyped him up, and Hank Aaron even called him a “can’t miss major leaguer”. That kind of praise? Not easy to live up to.

His first-year stats didn’t jump off the page, but the Braves still believed he could develop into something special.

Teams Played For in MLB

Over eight years, Komminsk wore the uniforms of six different teams:

• Atlanta Braves (1983-1986)
• Milwaukee Brewers (1987)
• Cleveland Indians (1989)
• Baltimore Orioles (1990)
• San Francisco Giants (1991)
• Oakland Athletics (1991)

He spent the most time in Atlanta, sticking around for four seasons. After that, he bounced around quite a bit, rarely staying with a club for more than a year.

That constant movement showed how tough it was for him to lock down an everyday spot. Still, his ability to play right, center, and left field helped him keep finding jobs.

Key Career Highlights and Milestones

Komminsk’s best season came in 1984 with the Braves—he played 132 games and finally got a chance to show what he could do.

His career numbers:

• 22 home runs
• 105 RBIs
• .218 career batting average

Not exactly what scouts dreamed of, but he did have his moments. He hit his first MLB homer off San Francisco’s Mark Davis and had a few games where he really caught fire at the plate.

Defensively, Komminsk held his own in the outfield. He used his athletic 6’2” frame to cover plenty of ground, and his glove kept him in lineups even when his bat cooled off.

He got to share the field with some legends—Dale Murphy in Atlanta, and Cal Ripken Jr. during his time with the Orioles.

Retirement in 1991

Komminsk played his last MLB games in 1991, splitting time between the Giants and Athletics. At 30, he stepped away from the majors after eight seasons.

He didn’t just disappear, though. He kept playing pro ball for a few more years, spending time in the minors and even suiting up for independent teams like the Winnipeg Goldeyes and a club in Italy.

His final pro game came in 1997, ending an 18-year run that started back in 1979. After hanging up the spikes, Komminsk stayed in the game, using what he’d learned over nearly two decades to help others as a coach.

Minor League Journey

Brad Komminsk’s trip through the minors showed just how much potential he had as an outfielder in the Braves system. He put up big numbers and kept fans and scouts buzzing.

Minor League Teams and Performance

Komminsk kicked off his pro career after the Braves took him in the first round (fourth overall) of the 1979 draft. His minor league stats turned heads right away.

In the early ‘80s, he flashed both power and speed in the Braves’ farm system. Scouts couldn’t help but compare him to Dale Murphy, Atlanta’s star outfielder.

By 1982, Komminsk was one of baseball’s brightest prospects. His minor league performances made the Braves front office believe he’d anchor their outfield for years.

Triple-A Richmond and Other Affiliates

Komminsk’s time with the Triple-A Richmond Braves was a key step in his development. In Richmond, he sharpened his game and got ready for the big leagues.

He built strong relationships with teammates and coaches there—some of those friendships lasted well beyond his playing days. The clubhouse atmosphere and advice from veteran players really helped him mature as a pro.

After his MLB career ended, Komminsk didn’t walk away from the minors. He played for several organizations and even spent a season in Italy before finishing up his playing days.

Eventually, all that experience set him up for his next act. Komminsk returned to the minors as a coach and manager, where he helped shape prospects like Grady Sizemore while working in the Cleveland Indians organization.

Notable Teammates, Managers, and Coaches

Throughout his career, Brad Komminsk played with some seriously talented guys and learned from a bunch of respected baseball minds. These connections shaped him as a player and helped guide his later move into coaching.

Influential Teammates and Contemporaries

While with the Braves (1983-1986), Komminsk patrolled the outfield alongside Dale Murphy, a two-time NL MVP. Murphy’s approach to the game set a great example for the younger Komminsk.

He also played with Dion James, another outfielder who, like Komminsk, came in with big expectations but found the majors tough to crack.

In Milwaukee, Komminsk shared a clubhouse with pitcher Moose Haas, known for his steady presence on the mound. His short stint with Cleveland gave him a chance to meet future mainstays in that organization.

During his last MLB season with the A’s in 1991, Komminsk suited up with some established vets who helped Oakland stay competitive.

Managers and Coaching Relationships

Several managers played a role in Komminsk’s development, especially Joe Torre, who managed the Braves during part of Komminsk’s time there. Torre, later a Hall of Fame skipper with the Yankees, worked with Komminsk during those crucial early years.

Eddie Haas also managed him briefly in Atlanta in 1985. The Braves were still hoping Komminsk would break out as their top prospect.

After his playing days, Komminsk jumped into coaching and managing in the minors. The lessons he picked up from his mentors stuck with him.

He later worked as a hitting coach at AAA Toledo and found success as a coach and manager in the Cleveland Indians’ system from 1999 to 2006, showing that those relationships from his playing days paid off in his second career.

Signature Playing Style and Skills

Brad Komminsk brought a mix of power and solid defense to the field during his MLB career. His style of play included flashes of the talent that made him a top pick in 1979.

Offensive Strengths and Flair

Komminsk’s offensive game centered on his potential for power. In the minors, he slugged his way onto prospect lists with a compact but strong swing that generated real bat speed.

He had a nice run with Cleveland in 1989, showing off his pop by hitting eight home runs in just 71 games. He could really drive the ball, especially on pitches inside, and racked up his share of doubles.

At his best, Komminsk approached the plate with patience. He’d work the count and wait for something to hit. His MLB average never matched what he did in the minors, but he could still drive in runs when he got regular at-bats.

Defensive Abilities in Left Field

Defensively, Komminsk was a reliable outfielder who mainly played left field during his big league days. He ran decent routes and kept himself in the right spot, which helped cover for his just-average speed.

His arm stood out for a left fielder. Komminsk threw accurately from the corners, keeping runners honest and sometimes gunning down guys trying to take an extra base.

He showed solid fundamentals throughout his career. Komminsk had secure hands and rarely botched routine plays. Managers trusted his glove enough to leave him in the lineup when his bat was hot.

Base Running and Athleticism

On the bases, Komminsk had decent speed and pretty sharp instincts. He wasn’t a big base stealer in the majors, but he usually knew when to take the extra base and how to read pitchers.

His athleticism popped a bit more in the minors, where his mix of power and speed got people excited. Komminsk made smart decisions on the basepaths and avoided major mistakes.

The 6-foot-1 outfielder kept himself in good shape throughout his career. Even after his MLB days ended in 1991, he used his physical tools to keep playing in Italy and with independent teams like the Winnipeg Goldeyes.

Relationship With Key MLB Franchises

Brad Komminsk spent eight seasons in the majors with four teams, but the Atlanta Braves played the biggest role in his career. He also had shorter runs with the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox.

Impact With Atlanta Braves

The Braves picked Komminsk fourth overall in the 1979 draft, signing him for a $70,000 bonus. Expectations were sky-high, and honestly, that shadow followed him.

Working his way up through Atlanta’s system, Komminsk became the organization’s top prospect and looked like the future of their outfield. His minor league numbers got a lot of people talking.

But once he hit the big leagues, Komminsk struggled to put it all together at the plate. He never really locked down a starting job with the Braves.

Eventually, Atlanta moved on, but they did bring him back in a different role later. After his playing days, he worked in the Braves’ public relations department, handling community outreach.

Stints With Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians

After Atlanta, Komminsk got fresh chances with the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox. Both teams hoped he’d find his form and help out their outfields.

In Cleveland, Komminsk tried to restart his career and become a valuable outfield contributor. That stint was pretty short, but it gave him a shot at a new beginning.

The Red Sox also gave him a look, hoping he’d show flashes of his old promise. Things didn’t click long-term, but those opportunities showed teams still saw something in him.

After bouncing between these teams, Komminsk wrapped up his MLB career in 1991. Still, he wasn’t done with baseball—he spent several seasons in the minors and even played in Italy before finally calling it quits.

Trades, Free Agency, and Career Transitions

Brad Komminsk’s baseball journey had him switching teams a few times, going from top prospect to journeyman outfielder. His moves really showed how much baseball is a business, especially in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

Major Trades and Transactions

Komminsk started with the Braves after they picked him fourth overall in 1979. When he didn’t quite live up to the hype, Atlanta made a move. They traded Komminsk to the Milwaukee Brewers before the 1987 season.

His time with Milwaukee didn’t last long. Soon after, the Cleveland Indians picked him up. In Cleveland, Komminsk flashed some of his old power—he hit eight homers in 71 games in 1989, which was actually a pretty solid stretch for him.

He kept bouncing around, landing with the Giants and Orioles after his time in Cleveland.

Free Agency Decisions

Komminsk hit free agency a few times as his career wound down. After his first stint with Cleveland, he was granted free agency after the 1988 season, which led him back to the Indians.

He entered the free agent market again in late 1990. On January 25, 1991, Komminsk made his final MLB move, signing with the Oakland Athletics.

The A’s didn’t keep him around long. After just 13 games, he was granted free agency one last time on October 15, 1991, and that ended his time in the majors.

Spring Training, Camps, and Preparation

Komminsk put in a lot of time at spring training camps, sharpening his skills and getting ready for each season. Those weeks were a big deal for his development, both as a player and later on in his career.

Spring Training Impact

Spring training always seemed to reflect where Komminsk was in his career. When he was a hot prospect with the Braves, he faced a ton of pressure to deliver right out of the gate.

Later on, even after his last MLB season in 1991, Komminsk kept showing up—he took part in spring training as a replacement player for the Twins in 1995. Shows you how much he wanted to stay involved in the game.

Spring training gave Komminsk a stage to prove himself to new coaches, especially as he moved between teams.

Role in Team Camps

After playing, Komminsk moved into coaching and became a regular at team camps. He drew on his own journey—full of ups and downs—to help young players figure things out.

As a new manager for the Bowie Baysox, Komminsk brought a lot of patience and perspective. He’d been the guy with all the expectations on his shoulders, so he understood what his players were feeling.

He focused on helping young guys handle the pressure and keep working on their game. Having walked that road himself, he could really relate.

By 1998, Komminsk was a hitting coach at AAA Toledo, where he worked with prospects on their approach at the plate.

Legacy and Post-Retirement Involvement

After stepping away from the field in 1991, Brad Komminsk didn’t just disappear—he turned into a mentor and built a whole second act in baseball as a coach and manager. It’s kind of cool to see how some players keep shaping the game even after they stop playing.

Lasting Impact on Baseball Community

Komminsk’s influence really grew in player development circles after his MLB career. He didn’t leave the sport right away, instead playing in Italy and for the Winnipeg Goldeyes before moving into coaching full-time.

Because he’d been a hyped prospect who faced his own struggles, Komminsk connected well with young players. Folks who worked with him often mention how his calm, patient style helped them deal with the pressure.

Players he coached have credited Komminsk for helping them build confidence, especially hitters and outfielders working through rough patches.

Roles After Playing Career

Starting in 1999, Komminsk spent 17 years managing in the minors, mostly working in player development. He spent his first six years with the Cleveland Indians, where he quickly earned respect as a leader.

While with Cleveland from 1999 to 2006, Komminsk helped shape future stars like Grady Sizemore and other prospects who’d go on to make a mark in the majors. Players and front offices liked how he broke down complex stuff into simple, usable advice.

He also worked with equipment managers sometimes, trying out new training tools for outfielders. Komminsk’s approach covered both the mental and physical sides of the game, helping players get ready for whatever pro baseball threw at them.

Recognition and Honors

Brad Komminsk’s career wasn’t packed with big awards, but he did earn some recognition along the way.

MLB Awards and Nominations

Komminsk never won a Cy Young Award or anything like that, but being picked fourth overall in the 1979 draft was a big nod to his talent and potential.

His minor league numbers got him more attention than his major league stats. He put up strong seasons with the Durham Bulls and became one of baseball’s top prospects in the early ’80s.

Across the teams he played for—Braves, Brewers, Indians, Orioles, and Giants—Komminsk was valued for his defense more than his bat. Managers noticed his versatility in the outfield, and that kept him in the conversation for roster spots.

Mentions in Baseball Publications

Baseball America really put Komminsk in the spotlight as he moved up through the minors. At one point, they ranked him among the top prospects, pointing out his power and speed—traits that definitely caught scouts’ eyes.

Sports writers often brought up Komminsk when talking about talented players who just couldn’t quite turn minor league stardom into big league success. He turned into a go-to example in a lot of player development stories.

He never made it to a World Series, but you’ll still find baseball historians and journalists mentioning Komminsk in their looks back at the 1980s Braves. His journey really shows just how unpredictable prospect development can be in pro baseball—sometimes you just can’t script it, no matter what.

Once he hung up his cleats, Komminsk got some attention for moving into coaching. Publications noticed his work helping younger players grow in different organizations.