Mike Beall started the 1989 season at single-A Appleton strong, hitting as high as .329 by the end of May, The Appleton Post-Crescent wrote. But then a month-long slump came.
Beall worked to get out of it, while also keeping up in the field, The Post-Crescent wrote.
"It's a psychological thing," Beall told The Post-Crescent. "You just have to try to restore your confidence. As far as the fielding goes, I consider that to be a plus. But, as a first baseman I have to show that I can hit."
Beall, in his second pro season, worked back enough to make high-A Baseball City the next year. But that third season proved his last as a pro.
Beall's career began in 1988, taken by the Royals in the 33rd round of the draft out of St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, Fla.
Beall started with the Royals at Appleton. He saw 72 games there in 1988 and hit .239. He then returned there for 1989.
That July in 1989, out of his slump, he hit a three-run home run in a game. His defense also won him won him Baseball America's award for top defensive first baseman in the league, The Post-Crescent wrote.
"I don't know why they had named me the top fielding first baseman," Beall told The Post-Crescent. "But, as far as I'm concerned, the fielding is only a plus. The home runs and RBI are the big deal. I don't know if I'll ever be a home-run hitter, but hopefully I can show them that I can drive in runs."
Beall hit .253 on the year in 1989 over 110 games. He hit six home runs and knocked in 59. He moved to high-A Baseball City for 1990. He saw 64 games there and hit .201 to end his career.
- Appleton Post-Crescent, July 21, 1989: Beall does it with bat
- Appleton Post-Crescent, Aug. 6, 1989: Slump: Beall broke out
Made the Majors:1,392-32.4%
Never Made Majors:2,905-67.6%-X
10+ Seasons in the Minors:349
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