Brian James Tallet (born June 16, 1977) is an American former professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Cleveland Indians, New York Mets, and Atlanta Braves between 2000 and 2012.
Early life and education
Tallet was born in Greenville, Texas. He attended Greenville High School, where he played high school baseball and was recognized for his pitching abilities. He later attended John A. Logan College, a junior college in Illinois, before transferring to Texas A&M University–Kingsville (formerly Texas A&I University), where he continued his collegiate baseball career.
Professional career
Minor leagues
The Cleveland Indians selected Tallet in the 34th round of the 1996 MLB Draft. He began his professional career in the Indians' minor league system, progressing through the Appalachian League, Midwest League, and Southern League. He made his MLB debut with the Indians on September 22, 2000.
New York Mets (2002–2008)
After limited usage with Cleveland, Tallet was claimed off waivers by the New York Mets in 2002. He spent the majority of the 2002–2003 seasons in the minor leagues, but returned to the Mets' major‑league roster in 2004. Over the next several seasons, he served primarily as a left‑handed relief pitcher, appearing in 226 games for the Mets. His 2006 season was his most active, in which he recorded a 6–2 win–loss record and a 3.87 earned run average (ERA) over 65 appearances.
Atlanta Braves (2009–2012)
Tallet signed a minor‑league contract with the Atlanta Braves in February 2009 and made the major‑league roster out of spring training. He became a regular member of the Braves' bullpen, appearing in 66 games in 2009 and posting a 3.43 ERA. He continued with the Braves through the 2012 season, acting primarily as a left‑handed specialist. Over his tenure with Atlanta, he compiled a cumulative 5–6 record and a 4.14 ERA.
Retirement
Following the 2012 season, Tallet became a free agent and later announced his retirement from professional baseball. After retiring, he has been involved in coaching at the amateur level and has participated in community baseball clinics.
Playing style
Tallet was a left‑handed pitcher known for his ability to induce ground balls and to face left‑handed batters in high‑leverage situations. His repertoire typically included a fastball in the low‑90s mph range, a slider, and a changeup.
Personal life
Tallet is married and has children. He resides in Texas and has engaged in various charitable activities, including youth baseball programs and fundraising events for local causes.
Career statistics (MLB)
- Win–loss record: 19–22
- Earned run average: 4.33
- Strikeouts: 277
- Games pitched: 383 (all in relief)
References
- Major League Baseball official player statistics.
- Baseball-Reference.com, player profile: Brian Tallet.
- News articles from The New York Times and Atlanta Journal-Constitution covering his career milestones.