Former Major League Baseball shortstop Garry Templeton brought stories of perseverance, resilience and hard-earned success to the Levan Center on Feb. 11, where he spoke to students with the invitation of his longtime friend, Professor Tommy W. Tunson.
Templeton, a three-time All-Star who played 16 seasons in the major leagues with the St. Louis Cardinals and San Diego Padres, reflected on a journey that carried him from Santa Ana to baseball’s biggest stage. Encouraged by Tunson, who has encouraged him to speak for years, Templeton shared lessons shaped by triumph and drive, offering students insight into the mindset that fueled his extraordinary career.
Templeton’s path to Major League Baseball began in Santa Ana, where he was raised. His cousins nicknamed him “Jump Steady,” due to his athleticism and constant energy — traits he carried throughout his 16-year career.
As a multisport athlete in high school, Templeton maintained honor roll status while excelling in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field. Though he once envisioned a future playing football at UCLA, Templeton chose a different path. In 1974, he became the 13th overall pick in the first round of the MLB draft, selected by the Cardinals.
Templeton played shortstop for St. Louis from 1976 to 1981 and for San Diego from 1982 to 1991. In 1979, he recorded 100 hits from each side of the plate, becoming the first switch hitter in MLB history to accomplish this. He was also among the first African American players to earn $1 million a year during his time with the Padres.
His journey did not go without hardship. As an African American player, Templeton faced racism throughout his career. Early on, he and his teammates struggled to find housing due to white-owned apartments not renting to them. On the road, some restaurants refused to serve the Black players, having their white teammates purchase food for them to later eat on the bus.
Templeton said those experiences-built resilience.
“You can learn from anybody. There is not one certain way of doing anything,” Templeton said. “Don’t get stuck on doing something one way. There are plenty of ways to get the job done.”
Now frequently invited to All-Star Games and World Series events, he enjoys the many perks of retirement. Templeton continues to share his story — one rooted in perseverance, being humble and hard work. All traits he’s instilled in himself.