Darryl Strawberry: From MVP to Addict and Back Again

Darryl Strawberry was one of the most talented baseball players of the 1980s and early 1990s. A prodigious talent both at the plate and in the field, he helped the New York Mets win the World Series in 1986. But Strawberry's career was also marred by drug and alcohol abuse, which eventually led to his downfall.

Strawberry was born in Los Angeles in 1962. He was a standout athlete in high school, playing both baseball and football. He was drafted by the Mets out of high school in 1980, and made his major league debut in 1983. Strawberry quickly became one of the most feared hitters in baseball, known for his powerful bat and ability to hit home runs.

In 1986, Strawberry was a key member of the Mets' World Series championship team. He hit .311 with 26 home runs and 98 RBIs during the regular season, and then batted .364 with 5 home runs and 11 RBIs in the World Series against the Boston Red Sox.

But Strawberry's career began spiraling downward in the late 1980s. He was arrested for cocaine possession in 1989, and was suspended from baseball for 60 days. He continued to struggle with drug and alcohol addiction throughout the 1990s, and was arrested several more times.

Strawberry's addiction eventually cost him his career. He was released by the Mets in 1999, and never played in the major leagues again. He spent the next several years struggling with addiction, but eventually got his life back on track.

Today, Strawberry is a motivational speaker and author. He travels the country, sharing his story of addiction and recovery. He is also a strong advocate for drug and alcohol prevention. Strawberry's story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction, but it is also a story of hope and redemption.

Strawberry's story is a reminder that addiction can strike anyone, regardless of their talent or success. It is also a reminder that there is always hope for recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to help you get your life back on track.