Lou Whitaker

Lou Whitaker Speaker & Booking Information

SPEAKER INFORMATION

LIVE/IN-PERSON FEE RANGE

$2,000 - $5,000

Virtual FEE RANGE

Contact Us

Matching Topics and Types

He was the starting second baseman for the 1984 World Series Champion Detroit TIgers; He was selected to 5 All Star Games, awarded 3 Gold Glove awards and 4 Silver Slugger awards

Book Lou Whitaker for your event

Louis Rodman Whitaker Jr., affectionately known as "Sweet Lou," is one of the most iconic figures in Detroit Tigers history. Spending his entire 19-year Major League Baseball career with the Tigers, Whitaker became a cornerstone of the franchise from 1977 to 1995. His consistency, both offensively and defensively, made him a fan favorite and a key contributor to the Tigers' success, including their 1984 World Series championship. Whitaker's smooth fielding at second base, combined with his ability to hit for both average and power, earned him numerous accolades throughout his career, solidifying his place among the game's elite.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Virginia, Whitaker was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 1975. After a brief stint in the minor leagues, where he was named the Florida State League MVP in 1976, Whitaker made his MLB debut in 1977. His rookie season in 1978 was nothing short of spectacular, as he earned the American League Rookie of the Year Award. Over the next two decades, Whitaker would go on to become one of the most reliable second basemen in the league, earning five consecutive All-Star selections from 1983 to 1987 and winning four Silver Slugger Awards.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Whitaker's career was his partnership with shortstop Alan Trammell. Together, they formed the longest-running double play combination in Major League Baseball history, playing side by side for 19 seasons. Their chemistry on the field was unparalleled, and they became synonymous with the Tigers' success during the 1980s. Whitaker's defensive prowess was further recognized with three Gold Glove Awards, which he won consecutively from 1983 to 1985.

Whitaker's contributions to the game extended beyond his individual accolades. He was a key figure in the Tigers' 1984 World Series victory, providing leadership and clutch performances throughout the season. His No. 1 jersey was retired by the Tigers in 2022, a testament to his lasting impact on the franchise. In addition to his on-field success, Whitaker was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2000, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in Tigers history.

- Played 19 seasons with the Detroit Tigers (1977–1995), appearing in 2,390 games.
- Won the 1978 American League Rookie of the Year Award.
- Five-time American League All-Star (1983–1987).
- Won four Silver Slugger Awards and three Gold Glove Awards.
- Helped lead the Tigers to the 1984 World Series championship.

To secure Louis Rodman Whitaker Jr. for your next event please contact our celebrity booking agents.

SIMILAR SPEAKERS

Dave Parker

He is a former National League MVP, two-time batting champion, and was a member of three World Series champion teams

Rolando Blackman

He was a four-time NBA All-Star; He played 11 seasons with the Dallas Mavericks and is considered one of the all-time great Mavericks players

Sammie Smith

He is a former first round draft pick by the Miami Dolphins; His book, Unconquered, is the extraordinary story of the highs in sports combined with personal hardships