Kurt Suzuki is one of the most notable Titans as all-time, as he spent three years (2002-04) as arguably the best catcher Fullerton has ever seen. Suzuki put together a special career at Cal State Fullerton, which culminated with a senior season that saw him hit .413, recording 16 home runs and 87 RBI on his way to claiming the Brooks Wallace Award honors. He also was also presented with the Johnny Bench Award. The Brooks Wallace Award is given to the nation's most outstanding player, while the Johnny Bench Award is handed out to the country's best catcher.
While Suzuki's personal statistics were second to none, he was also an instrumental part of Fullerton's 2004 National Championship squad, as he played under fellow Titan Hall of Famer George Horton.
Suzuki's .413 batting average in 2004 still ranks fifth all-time in school history, while the 87 RBI rank sixth and the 104 hits rank seventh. His career .491 on-base percentage is still highest in program history, while his .996 career fielding percentage is second highest in school history.
After Cal State Fullerton, Suzuki's baseball career was far from over, as he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round of the 2004 MLB Draft. Since being drafted he's played for the Athletics, Washington Nationals, Minnesota Twins and Atlanta Braves.
Suzuki is currently in his 11th season in the big leagues and enjoyed his best year in 2014, as he was named to the American League All-Star team as a member of the Twins. Â
