Player Profile: Jim Bonnici

I have two cards of Jim Bonnici. This one is from 1997 Topps. 

Playing career: First baseman Jim Bonnici was drafted in the 58th round of the 1990 draft by the Mariners and slowly worked his way through the system, putting up solid numbers but not looking like a real prospect. In spring of 1995 he decided to report to spring training as a replacement player. That year, in his first season at AA, he suddenly discovered how to hit for power, hitting .283 with 20 HR and 91 RBI. He put up even better numbers in 1996 at AAA Tacoma, hitting .292 with 26 HR and 74 RBI. However, due to the Mariner players’ dislike of the former replacement player, Seattle refused to call him up to the majors, and instead he went to Japan for two years before coming back to the US for a brief time in 1999 in the Tigers system.

Where he is now: A scout for the Rays.

My memories: Only know him from his card.

Google Autocomplete results: He is ninth when you type Jim Bonn, between Jim Bonnette Advisory Board and Jim Bonnette Oliver Wyman, both of which refer to a consultant. Another prominent Jim Bonnici is a photographer.

Coming up next: The next profile will be Kyle Bono.