| McGwire attended Damien High School where he played basketball, golf, and baseball (as a pitcher). He graduated in 1981 and declined an offer from the Montreal Expos to pitch (in 81 he also played some ball with the Claremont Cardinals an American Legion team). Instead of going pro immediately McGwire decided to attended the University of Southern California in 1982. He started his three years there as a pitcher, but a USC coach saw the hitting power and McGwire transfered to third base. During his time at USC he also played in the American Legion again, this time with the Glacier Pilots of Anchorage Alaska, where he pitched and played first base. His time in Alaska was when he began his pitcher to baseman switch. In 1984 his talents were again recognized when he was selected as third baseman for the USA Olympic team (which would go on to win the Silver Medal). Giving up his senior year at USC he was drafted by the A's in 1984. McGwire then played in the minors for about 2 full seasons, spending the whole 1985 season in Modesto (A), then moving from Huntsville (AA) to Tacoma (AAA) and then finally to the Oakland Athletics in 1986. He had a good first few seasons with the Athletics, making it to the World Series three times and breaking and setting many records (see Facts section) . However, in 1993 and the strike shortened 1994 season he was plagued by injury. In 1995 though he began to pick back up. By 96 and 97 he was once again considered one of the best power hitters in the baseball. In July of 1997 he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. There, he finished an excellent season in St. Louis and then, in 1998, would go on to break Roger Maris' single season home run record of 61 with 70. In 2000 and 2001 he was once again plagued by injury. Sadly, on 11 November 2001 McGwire announced his retirement from Major League Baseball.
McGwire currently resides in California with his wife. His son Matt, resides with his ex-wife and her new husband. Although a very private man, McGwire is publicly active in charity work. He donates $1 million a year to his foundation for abused children, has done many autograph charity auctions, plays in charity Golf tournaments, and does other such endorsements and events to help those in need. Info on his charity for abused children and other work from him, the Cardinals team, and fans who help out can be found in the Charity Work section of this site.
Be sure to check out the Facts section of this page to see over 200 of McGwire's awards, selections and other notable career facts.
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