Jim Lindeman – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Jim Lindeman spent nine seasons in Major League Baseball from 1986 to 1994, mostly covering the outfield and first base. He wrapped up his career in 1994 with the New York Mets at age 32, after suiting up for five different MLB teams: the Cardinals, Tigers, Phillies, Astros, and Mets. His stint in St. Louis stands out the most, especially as part of the Cardinals’ 1987 National League championship squad.

This Illinois native never quite matched the hype of being the 8th overall pick in the 1983 MLB draft. Still, Lindeman managed to put together a solid run as a utility guy, offering defensive flexibility and some pop. He stuck around the majors by grinding through injuries and taking on whatever role teams needed.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Jim Lindeman’s baseball story started in the Chicago suburbs, where his athletic talent showed up early. His high school and college years really set the stage for his shot at the big leagues.

Childhood and Background

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Lindeman grew up around Chicago in the ‘60s. Even as a kid, he had a knack for sports, and baseball quickly became his thing. Despite those classic Chicago winters, he found ways to play year-round.

He sharpened his skills on local fields, often bouncing between positions. His family was all-in, driving him to games and practices all over the area.

He looked up to Chicago baseball stars, dreaming of making it to the majors himself someday.

High School Achievements

Lindeman went to Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Illinois, graduating in 1979. He played multiple sports, but baseball soon took over.

Scouts started noticing his strong bat and ability to play different spots on the field. He picked up All-Conference and All-State honors along the way.

During high school, he:

• Won several batting titles
• Took on team leadership roles
• Played solid defense in the outfield
• Attracted plenty of interest from colleges

By senior year, Lindeman was one of Illinois’ top prospects, setting school records for home runs and batting average.

College Baseball Years

After high school, Lindeman continued playing ball in college, where he really started to come into his own. His power numbers jumped, and scouts took notice.

He mostly played outfield and first base, making himself more valuable to teams. In 1983, the St. Louis Cardinals picked him in the first round, hoping he’d be a big contributor.

His college stats proved he could hit for both power and average—traits that followed him into pro ball.

Major League Baseball Debut

Lindeman’s climb to the majors came with a lot of promise. The Cardinals drafted him in the first round, and he eventually made his mark in their system.

Drafting and Signing

The St. Louis Cardinals selected Jim Lindeman in the first round (24th overall) of the 1983 MLB Amateur Draft. Coming out of Bradley University, he was a well-regarded prospect with plenty of power.

At 6’2″ and 195 pounds, Lindeman had the build scouts wanted. The Cardinals hoped he’d become a power-hitting corner outfielder or first baseman.

After signing, he spent a few seasons working his way up the minors, showing off his bat at every stop before finally getting the call to the big leagues.

MLB Debut Season

Lindeman debuted in the majors with the Cardinals on September 12, 1986. The team was strong that year, and Lindeman got a taste of the action.

He played in 11 games as a rookie, mostly pinch-hitting or filling in the outfield. He picked up his first major league hit soon after arriving, giving fans a peek at his potential.

His average wasn’t much to write home about that first year, but the Cardinals saw enough to keep him around. That short stint helped him get used to the big leagues.

First Home Run

Lindeman hit his first big league homer in 1987, which ended up being his best season. He launched a memorable shot at Busch Stadium, showing off the power that made him a first-round pick.

That home run traveled over 400 feet—plenty of pop there. Fans and teammates celebrated the moment, hoping he’d become the slugger they’d hoped for.

That first homer felt especially sweet, coming during the Cardinals’ pennant-winning season. Injuries slowed him down, but he flashed his potential when healthy.

Career with St. Louis Cardinals

Lindeman’s major league run really took off with the Cardinals in 1986. He had some of his best moments with the team and played a part in their success in the 1980s.

Rookie Performance

He made his debut with the Cardinals in 1986, three years after they drafted him. In that first year, he played 43 games, mostly in the outfield.

Lindeman hit around .240 as a rookie—not bad for someone facing big league pitching for the first time. The team liked what they saw and kept him in the mix for the next season.

He showed decent power and could play multiple positions, which became his calling card in St. Louis.

Key Seasons and Highlights

Lindeman’s best year with the Cardinals came in 1987. He played 75 games, improved his average, and found more consistency at the plate.

He bounced between the outfield and first base, filling in wherever the team needed him. That flexibility proved valuable, especially when injuries hit the roster.

One of his top highlights: homering in his first playoff at-bat. Talk about coming through in the clutch.

Throughout his time in St. Louis, Lindeman earned a reputation for being a pro and putting the team first. He learned from the veterans and found ways to contribute.

Playoff and World Series Appearances

Lindeman stepped up in the 1987 playoffs, especially during the National League Championship Series against the Giants.

He made his mark in the World Series against the Twins, hitting .333 in limited chances. In Game 3, he came through with a key hit that helped the Cardinals win at Busch Stadium.

Those playoff moments showed Lindeman’s grit and ability to handle pressure. His postseason experience with the Cardinals became a career highlight.

His time with the Cardinals ended in 1989, but fans still remember his role in their playoff runs.

Trades and Tenure with Multiple MLB Teams

After St. Louis, Lindeman’s career took him to several other teams. He bounced around as a utility player, trying to help wherever he landed.

Detroit Tigers Years

The Detroit Tigers picked up Lindeman in 1989. He mostly served as a backup outfielder and pinch hitter, appearing in 46 games and hitting .244 with 3 homers.

Detroit’s outfield was crowded, so playing time was tough to come by. Manager Sparky Anderson used Lindeman mostly against lefties, and he showed some pop when he got the chance.

Even with limited opportunities, Lindeman kept a positive attitude and stayed ready.

Philadelphia Phillies Stint

After Detroit, Lindeman joined the Philadelphia Phillies for parts of the 1990 and 1991 seasons. He kept bouncing between the outfield and first base.

With the Phillies, he played 71 games, batting .224 with 6 home runs and 21 RBIs. Early in 1991, he came up with a few clutch pinch hits.

Manager Jim Fregosi liked having Lindeman in the clubhouse. He wasn’t an everyday starter, but his experience and flexibility helped a Phillies team that was trying to rebuild.

New York Mets Experience

Lindeman’s last MLB stop came with the New York Mets in 1992. He signed as a free agent, hoping to squeeze out a bit more time in the majors. He appeared in 43 games, mostly as a pinch hitter and backup outfielder.

With the Mets, he hit .224 with 2 homers. Manager Jeff Torborg used him off the bench in late innings.

The 1992 Mets struggled, and Lindeman’s role shrank as the year went on. After that season, he played a bit more in the minors before retiring in 1994. His journey kind of sums up the grind for utility players trying to stick around in the big leagues.

Final MLB Seasons and Retirement

In the early ‘90s, Lindeman’s career started winding down. He moved through a few more teams, and injuries began to catch up with him.

Chicago Cubs and Late Career

After his time with the Cardinals, Tigers, Phillies, and Astros, Lindeman landed with the Chicago Cubs for the last leg of his MLB run. Mostly, the Cubs used him as a utility player—he’d fill in at first or in the outfield as needed.

In 1993, finding regular playing time proved tough. He spent most of his time pinch-hitting or coming in as a defensive sub.

Injuries kept getting in the way, and he landed on the disabled list a few times, which limited his chances even more.

Retirement in 1994

Lindeman retired from baseball in 1994, wrapping up a nine-year MLB run that started back in 1986. He left behind career numbers of 676 at-bats, 165 hits, and 21 home runs.

That 1994 season was a mess for baseball, with the players’ strike wiping out the World Series. Not the best way to go out, honestly.

At 32, Lindeman decided he’d had enough. After parts of nine seasons and five teams, he called it a career.

Announcing and Released Events

Before he officially retired, the Cubs let Lindeman go as they shuffled their roster. That move pretty much marked the end of his days as an active player in Major League Baseball.

When Lindeman retired, the news barely made a ripple in the media. Utility players back then didn’t usually get much fanfare. His exit from the game felt quiet, especially compared to the send-offs that stars received.

After hanging up his cleats, Lindeman kept in touch with the baseball world. He didn’t jump straight into broadcasting or coaching like some ex-players, but he found ways to stay involved with the sport here and there.

He showed up at Cubs alumni events from time to time, catching up with old teammates and reconnecting with the organization where he wrapped up his MLB career.

Notable Career Moments

Jim Lindeman’s MLB run had its share of big moments, especially when the pressure was on. Even though injuries and the 1994 strike cut his career short, he gave Cardinals fans some memories that still come up in conversations.

Memorable Home Runs

Lindeman could really slug the ball, and he made some noise with his power. He hit his first major league homer at Wrigley Field against the Cubs in 1987, showing off his potential right out of the gate for the Cardinals.

Probably his biggest home run came in the 1987 postseason. In Game 3 of the NLCS against the Giants, Lindeman launched a clutch homer that helped push the Cardinals toward the World Series.

He also took Rick Rhoden of the Pirates deep with a blast that soared over 400 feet. That shot was a reminder that Lindeman could handle veteran pitchers and had genuine pop in his bat.

Pinch-Hitting Success

Later in his career, especially with the Phillies and Mets, Lindeman found his groove as a pinch-hitter. For a guy who didn’t play every day, he put up solid pinch-hitting numbers, batting over .280 in that role in several seasons.

In 1992, while with the Phillies, Lindeman ripped a game-winning pinch-hit double against the Braves. Fans still remember that one for the timing—he had a knack for rising to the moment.

With the Mets in 1994, Lindeman was hitting .366 in Triple-A before getting called up. He kept delivering as a pinch-hitter until the strike cut the season short and, really, ended his major league career.

Impactful Games and Performances

The 1987 postseason stands out as Lindeman’s best stretch. He filled in for Jack Clark, who was hurt, and batted .308 in the NLCS, driving in runs during the Cardinals’ pennant push. In Game 5, he came up big against Giants pitcher Danny Jackson.

In 1989, Lindeman had a monster day against the Cubs, going 4-for-4 with 2 doubles and 3 RBIs. That perfect game at the plate still stands out as a highlight for him.

For some reason, Lindeman always seemed to play well against the Cubs, often outdueling Derrick May in their matchups. At Wrigley Field, he owned a batting average over .300—clearly, he felt at home there.

Statistical Overview and Legacy

Jim Lindeman spent nine seasons in the majors, from 1986 to 1994. His stats weren’t eye-popping, but he made a real impact as a versatile player, bouncing between the outfield and first base and helping out wherever teams needed him.

Batting Average and Home Run Stats

Lindeman wrapped up his career with a .244 batting average. He showed flashes of power, but consistency at the plate was tough for him. His best year was 1987 with the Cardinals—he hit .272 and smacked 8 home runs in just 75 games.

Across his time in the majors, he hit 24 homers. Injuries and limited playing time kept his power numbers in check, and his .381 slugging percentage reflected that middle-of-the-pack pop.

As the 1990s rolled in, Lindeman’s numbers dipped. He moved into a bench role, and his batting average fell below .240 during his last three seasons. Most of his home runs came early, with nearly half in his first two years.

Career Accomplishments

Lindeman’s biggest achievement came in 1987, when he helped the Cardinals reach the World Series as a rookie. The Cardinals had picked him 24th overall in the 1983 draft out of Bradley University, but injuries kept him from reaching his full potential.

He played for five teams: the Cardinals, Tigers, Phillies, Astros, and Mets. In 351 games, he collected 180 hits and drove in 99 runs.

Managers liked his flexibility—he could cover multiple spots on the field. Even though he rarely started every day, he carved out a niche as a reliable pinch-hitter and defensive sub.

Comparison to Peers

If you stack up Lindeman’s stats against his peers, he falls below the average everyday player of his time. The late ‘80s and early ‘90s had plenty of outfielders and first basemen with bigger numbers.

His career WAR (Wins Above Replacement) sat at 0.1, which basically means he performed at replacement level—far behind guys like Will Clark or Mark Grace. Still, as a utility player, he brought some value with his defensive versatility.

Unlike some of his peers who played for over a decade, Lindeman saw his time limited by injuries and his role as a backup. He never came close to Hall of Fame territory, but he filled those roster spots teams always need for depth.

Key Teammates, Managers, and Influences

Throughout his baseball career, Jim Lindeman crossed paths with plenty of influential people—teammates, managers, and even opponents who helped shape his game.

Notable Teammates

With the Cardinals, Lindeman shared the clubhouse with future Hall of Famer Lou Brock. Brock was winding down his career, but his leadership and base-stealing reputation definitely made an impression on younger guys like Lindeman.

When he landed with the Mets in 1994, Lindeman played alongside Kevin McReynolds, a steady outfielder with a quiet presence. That season turned out to be Lindeman’s last in the big leagues thanks to the strike.

He also played with Tim Jones, forming part of a supporting cast that helped the stars do their thing.

Influential Managers and Coaches

Dallas Green managed Lindeman in St. Louis and brought a tough, demanding style. Green pushed Lindeman to get the most out of his role as a utility player and pinch hitter.

The Cardinals’ coaching staff, made up of ex-players, offered plenty of advice too. They helped Lindeman adjust as he moved from prospect to bench guy.

With the Mets, Lindeman worked with coaches who understood the challenges of staying sharp with limited playing time. Their help made a difference as he settled into his reserve role.

Memorable Opponents

Lindeman faced some legends, including Bob Gibson in spring training and exhibition games. Going up against pitchers of that caliber gave him a taste of what it took to succeed at the plate.

As a Cardinal, he played against division rivals with stars like Joe Morgan, who was a force with both power and speed.

He also took on Dave Parker, the big outfielder with a cannon for an arm. Facing guys like that sharpened Lindeman’s skills and showed him the level of competition in the majors.

Career Beyond the Major Leagues

After the 1994 strike ended his MLB career, Jim Lindeman kept his baseball journey going for a bit before eventually moving into teaching and coaching.

Minor League Experience

Lindeman’s minor league days played a huge part in his story. The Cardinals picked him in the first round of the 1983 draft, and he quickly made a name for himself in their farm system. His power at Triple-A Louisville got him noticed and earned him a shot with St. Louis.

Whenever he bounced between the majors and minors, Lindeman kept hitting well in Louisville—his numbers there often outpaced what he did in the big leagues. Sometimes, that talent just didn’t fully translate at the top level.

When MLB opportunities dried up, Lindeman stuck around in the minors with the Tigers’ and Phillies’ organizations. He played through 1995, squeezing in more games after the strike closed the door on his major league run.

International and Winter Leagues

Lindeman, like a lot of players from his era, picked up extra playing time and a paycheck in winter ball during the off-season. That helped him stay sharp and gave him a chance to face different styles of pitching.

Some guys headed to leagues in Mexico, Venezuela, or the Dominican Republic, though there isn’t much out there about Lindeman’s specific international stops.

Eventually, after he finished playing for good, Lindeman found his second act in education. He became a PE teacher and baseball coach at Rolling Meadows High School in Illinois. There, he’s been able to pass on his experience to young athletes.

His teaching gig has turned into a pretty rewarding career, keeping him close to sports and giving him a chance to make a difference in students’ lives.

Impact and Recognition in Baseball

Jim Lindeman’s career might not have been long, but he carved out a spot in baseball history with some memorable flashes. Collectors and fans still talk about those moments from time to time.

Baseball Card Collecting

Lindeman’s baseball cards picked up a bit of popularity, especially his rookie cards from the late ‘80s. After his playoff run with the Cardinals in 1987, his Topps card from that year got some extra attention.

Even though he never became a superstar, Lindeman’s cards still appeal to:

• Cardinals memorabilia collectors
• Fans filling out ‘80s baseball sets
• People collecting cards from the 1987 NL champs

Card prices have gone up and down, but sometimes mint-condition Lindeman cards fetch a decent price at auction. As Rob Manfred‘s MLB has tried to reconnect fans with the sport’s history, even players like Lindeman have seen a little bump in collector interest.

Media Coverage and Interviews

During the 1987 postseason, Lindeman grabbed the media spotlight when he stepped in for the injured Jack Clark. The St. Louis Bullpen highlighted how he earned team MVP honors at Bradley University in both 1982 and 1983, well before he turned pro.

Bob Prince, the legendary broadcaster, often spoke about Lindeman’s potential early on. Sadly, Prince passed away before Lindeman made it to the majors. When the 1994 MLB strike cut his career short, several publications picked up his story, focusing on the players who lost out because of the labor dispute.

A New York Times feature spotlighted his hitting with the Mets and explained why teams kept turning to him throughout his nine years in the big leagues.

Post-Retirement Life and Personal Interests

After he wrapped up his playing days in 1994, Jim Lindeman didn’t drift far from sports or teaching. He moved from the baseball field to the classroom and coaching sidelines, putting his energy into education, coaching, and staying involved in the community.

Coaching and Mentoring

Once his MLB career ended, Lindeman dove into teaching and coaching at Rolling Meadows High School in Illinois. He taught physical education for years and retired at the end of the 2022-23 school year. Students and athletes alike felt his influence every day.

As head varsity baseball coach at Rolling Meadows, Lindeman brought his professional experience to young players. He didn’t just stick to baseball, either—he’s also worked as an assistant freshman basketball coach. That versatility says a lot about his love for sports and his commitment to helping kids grow.

He’s big on fundamentals, mental toughness, and team unity—values he picked up during his years with the Cardinals, Orioles, and the rest.

Golf and Other Pursuits

Golf has become a big part of Lindeman’s life after baseball. He now coaches freshman golf at Rolling Meadows, passing along his enthusiasm for the game to new athletes. Shifting from baseball to golf coaching just seems natural for him, and it’s another way he keeps sports education front and center.

He doesn’t just coach golf—he plays it, too. Golf’s precision and patience are a different animal compared to baseball, but Lindeman’s athletic instincts help him enjoy the challenge.

Outside of sports, Lindeman keeps in touch with old teammates and sometimes joins Cardinals alumni events and charity outings. He’s never really left the game behind.

Community Involvement

Lindeman’s impact goes way beyond the classroom or the athletic fields—he’s really gotten involved in the broader community, too. Over the years, through teaching and coaching in Rolling Meadows, he’s shaped the lives of so many young people. It’s hard to even keep track.

When he works with youth sports programs, he doesn’t just focus on building athletic skills. He also encourages kids to develop character and leadership, which honestly might matter even more in the long run. Plenty of former students and players talk about how much Lindeman’s mentorship shaped who they became.

Lindeman brings the same skills and values he picked up during his baseball career—especially those hard-earned lessons with the 1987 Cardinals World Series team—into his approach to helping out in the community and working with young people.

He’s still around Rolling Meadows, showing up and staying involved. You can really see that giving back isn’t just something he does; it’s become a big part of who he is since his baseball days.