Topic: Russell Branyan

Russell Oles Branyan (born December 19, 1975 in Warner Robins, Georgia) is a Major League Baseball first baseman for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He throws right-handed, bats left-handed, and primarily plays first base, but is capable of playing third base and the outfield. Branyan began his professional career in the Cleveland Indians minor league system. His major league debut was with the Indians on September 26, 1998. He has played for the Cleveland Indians (two occasions), Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers (two occasions), Tampa Bay Devil Rays, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, the Seattle Mariners (two occasions), and the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Dubbed "Russell The Muscle," Branyan does not typically hit for a high batting average and strikes out frequently. However, he consistently draws walks and hits home runs. Branyan has been given the nickname 3TO, which stands for three true outcomes, by some groups of fans for his propensity to either draw a walk, strike out, or hit a home run. Because of this, players such as Jack Cust have drawn comparisons to Branyan.

Branyan was a 1994 graduate from Stratford Academy. His high school fostered such athletic talent like professional football player Le Kevin Smith and professional golfer Peter Persons. Branyan was selected as an All-Georgia State player in both 1993 and 1994. He was drafted out of Stratford Academy in the 1994 Major League Baseball Draft by the Cleveland Indians in the seventh round (185th pick overall).