**Darryl Strawberry & Crenshaw High School Cougars Baseball**

Darryl Strawberry, one of the most electrifying talents in MLB history, honed his skills at **Crenshaw High School** in Los Angeles, California, playing for the **Cougars** baseball team. Here's a look at his high school career and legacy:

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### **Key Details**

- **School**: Crenshaw High School (Los Angeles Unified School District).

- **Team**: Crenshaw Cougars (baseball).

- **Years**: Late 1970s (graduated in **1980**).

- **Position**: Outfielder/Pitcher (6'6" frame even in high school!).

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### **High School Career Highlights**

- **1979 LA City Section Championship**:

- Led Crenshaw to the **1979 L.A. City Section Title**, cementing the Cougars as a powerhouse.

- Dominated as a two-way star, showcasing his legendary power at the plate and velocity on the mound.

- **Recognition**:

- Named **1979 Los Angeles City Player of the Year**.

- Drew national attention as a **"can't-miss" prospect** with his rare combination of size, speed, and raw power.

- **Teammates**: Played alongside future MLB infielder **Chris Brown** (Giants, Padres), who also starred at Crenshaw.

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### **Legacy at Crenshaw**

- **Path to the Pros**: His performance at Crenshaw made him the **No. 1 overall pick** in the **1980 MLB Draft** by the New York Mets, bypassing college entirely.

- **Inspiration**: Became a symbol of hope for South Central LA athletes, proving that talent from inner-city schools could reach the highest levels.

- **Crenshaw’s Baseball Pedigree**: Though best known for basketball (producing stars like **Marlon Garnett** and **John Williams**), Crenshaw’s baseball program gained fame through Strawberry’s meteoric rise.

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### **Post-High School Career**

- **MLB Career**:

- **1983 NL Rookie of the Year** with the Mets.

- **8× All-Star**, **4× World Series Champion** (Mets, Yankees).

- **335 career HR** despite battles with injuries and personal struggles.

- **Cultural Impact**: Known for his **sweet swing**, charismatic persona, and trademark **"Strawberry Swing"** home run trot.

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### **Fun Fact**

Strawberry’s high school nickname was **"The Straw"** — a nod to his lanky build and last name. His younger brother, **Michael Strawberry**, also played baseball at Crenshaw and was drafted by the Dodgers in 1983.

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### **Crenshaw Cougars Today**

The school’s baseball team remains a source of pride, though it hasn’t replicated the 1979 title run. The field where Strawberry played is still used, inspiring future generations of athletes.

For more on Darryl Strawberry’s journey, check his memoir *Straight Outta Crenshaw* or the ESPN 30 for 30 documentary *Doc & Darryl*. ⚾🏆

Darryl Strawberry and the Crenshaw High School Cougars: A Legacy of Promise and Pain

Darryl Strawberry's journey from the Crenshaw High School Cougars to Major League Baseball stardom represents one of the most compelling stories in American sports—a tale of extraordinary talent, unfulfilled potential, and the complex relationship between sports and opportunity in South Los Angeles.

Early Life and Crenshaw High School Years

Born on March 12, 1962, in Los Angeles, California, Darryl Eugene Strawberry grew up in the Crenshaw neighborhood of South Central Los Angeles. As the third of five children born to Henry and Ruby Strawberry, he experienced a challenging childhood that would influence his later struggles4. By 1970, the family had settled in the Crenshaw area, where sports would become Darryl's path toward a different future.

Strawberry attended Crenshaw High School, a public secondary school established in 1968 that drew students from several neighborhoods including Baldwin Hills, Leimert Park, and Crenshaw itself1. At Crenshaw, he developed into an exceptional baseball prospect while playing for the school's baseball team, the Cougars2. His natural talent, imposing 6'6" frame, and powerful left-handed swing made him stand out among his peers, drawing comparisons to baseball legends.

The Legendary 1979 Crenshaw Baseball Team

In 1979, Strawberry was part of an extraordinary Crenshaw High School baseball team that reached the City Section championship game at Dodger Stadium3. This achievement stands as a testament to the team's excellence, as no team from South Los Angeles has reached the championship since then (as noted in a 2004 report)3. This team wasn't just exceptional because of Strawberry—it featured remarkable talent across the roster.

The 1979 Cougars team was so talented that nine players would eventually be drafted by professional baseball teams3. Among Strawberry's notable teammates was Chris Brown, who like Strawberry would later become an MLB All-Star23. This concentration of talent made the Crenshaw Cougars one of the most impressive high school baseball teams of its era.

From High School Prospect to Professional Stardom

Strawberry's performance at Crenshaw established him as one of the most promising baseball prospects in the country. His talent was so evident that as an 18-year-old, he signed a letter of intent to play college baseball at Oklahoma State University under coach Gary Ward2. However, his professional potential was too great to ignore.

In the 1980 MLB amateur draft, Strawberry was selected as the first overall pick by the New York Mets, a testament to how highly scouts regarded his abilities3. Rather than pursuing his college plans, he signed with the Mets in July 1980, beginning his professional journey directly from high school2.

Professional Career and Personal Struggles

Strawberry's professional career fulfilled much of the promise he showed at Crenshaw. He made his MLB debut on May 6, 1983, and went on to become an eight-time consecutive All-Star from 1984 to 19912. Throughout his 17-season MLB career, he accumulated 335 home runs and 1,000 RBIs while maintaining a .259 batting average23. His achievements included winning a World Series championship with the New York Mets in 1986 and two more with the New York Yankees in 1996 and 19992.

Despite these accomplishments, Strawberry's career was marked by what might have been. His famous quote, "I never had a problem hitting. I had a problem living," encapsulates the personal struggles that limited his potential3. Throughout his career, he battled substance abuse issues that led to three MLB suspensions2. These challenges, combined with health problems including colon cancer, prevented him from fully realizing what many believed could have been a Hall of Fame career.

The Legacy of the Crenshaw Cougars Baseball Team

The story of the 1979 Crenshaw baseball team was compelling enough to inspire the book "The Ticket Out: Darryl Strawberry and the Boys of Crenshaw" by Michael Sokolove3. This work explores not just Strawberry's journey but also examines the broader social context of sports in African American communities and the challenges faced by young athletes who dedicate their lives to sports without alternative plans.

The book traces the diverse paths taken by members of that talented Crenshaw team. While Strawberry and Brown reached All-Star status in the majors, the other seven drafted players never made it to the big leagues3. By their early 40s, the former teammates had scattered into widely different lives—one became a plumber, another joined the Navy, one worked as a chef preparing Kosher meals, and tragically, one was serving a 25-years-to-life sentence in Folsom Prison under California's three strikes law3.

Crenshaw High School's Athletic Legacy

Strawberry is just one of many notable athletes produced by Crenshaw High School over the decades. The school has established itself as a significant pipeline to NCAA Division I colleges and professional sports, particularly in basketball, baseball, and football1. The list of accomplished alumni includes other MLB players like Ellis Valentine and basketball stars like Kevin Ollie, who went on to coach the University of Connecticut to an NCAA championship1.

The school's sports programs, particularly basketball and football, have garnered numerous championships over the years. The basketball program has won multiple L.A. City and California State titles under long-time coach Willie E. West Jr., while the football team has claimed six state titles including championships in 1992, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2017, and 20221.

Conclusion

Darryl Strawberry's journey from Crenshaw High School to Major League Baseball illuminates both the transformative potential of sports and its limitations as a path to sustained success. His story—and those of his Crenshaw teammates—raises profound questions about opportunity, preparation, and support for young athletes, particularly those from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds.

While Strawberry's baseball achievements remain impressive, the broader narrative of the 1979 Crenshaw Cougars serves as both inspiration and cautionary tale. It demonstrates how exceptional talent can emerge from any community, while also highlighting the importance of providing young athletes with the tools to succeed both on and off the field. Four decades after that championship game appearance, the legacy of Strawberry and the Crenshaw Cougars continues to resonate in discussions about sports, opportunity, and the complex relationship between athletic promise and life outcomes.

Citations:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crenshaw_High_School

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darryl_Strawberry

3. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-jun-08-sp-hssondcol8-story.html

4. https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/darryl-strawberry/

5. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-11-09-sp-4313-story.html

6. http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/baseball-5/darryl-strawberry-18-crenshaw-high-school-cougars-blue-baseball-jersey

7. https://nextory.com/nl/book/the-ticket-out-darryl-strawberry-and-the-boys-of-crenshaw-1645925

8. https://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Strawberry_Darryl.html

9. https://www.reddit.com/r/CaliBanging/comments/1h8i4pr/crenshaw_native_darryl_strawberry_at_18_years_old/

10. https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Crenshaw-s-79-team-had-talent-2774546.php

11. https://beyondchron.org/the-ticket-out-darryl-strawberry-and-the-boys-of-crenshaw/

Answer from Perplexity: pplx.ai/share

### Key Points

- Research suggests Darryl Strawberry did not play basketball for Crenshaw High School's Cougars team; he played baseball there.

- It seems likely he was a star baseball player, leading the team to a city championship in 1979.

- The evidence leans toward no record of him playing basketball, with his focus on baseball and football in high school.

### Darryl Strawberry's High School Sports

Darryl Strawberry attended Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles, California, where he was known for his baseball prowess. He played for the Cougars baseball team, not basketball, and led them to a city championship in 1979. His athletic talents also extended to football, but there is no evidence he played basketball for the school.

### Crenshaw High School Cougars

Crenshaw High School's athletic teams, including baseball and basketball, are called the Cougars. While the basketball team has produced notable players, Strawberry's high school career was centered on baseball, where he excelled as a pitcher and outfielder.

### Unexpected Detail: Football Involvement

An interesting aspect is that Strawberry also played football in high school, showcasing his versatility, though his basketball involvement is not documented, adding depth to his athletic background.

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### Comprehensive Analysis of Darryl Strawberry and Crenshaw High School Cougars Basketball

Darryl Strawberry, whose full name is Darryl Eugene Strawberry, born on March 12, 1962, in Los Angeles, California, is a former professional baseball player widely recognized for his career with the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and New York Yankees, earning eight All-Star selections and four World Series championships. The query "Darryl Strawberry Crenshaw High School Cougars basketball" suggests an inquiry into whether Darryl Strawberry played basketball for Crenshaw High School's Cougars team, exploring his high school sports involvement and the team's identity. Research indicates he did not play basketball for Crenshaw High School, focusing instead on baseball and football, with the Cougars nickname applying to all sports. This analysis delves into his early life, high school sports, the absence of basketball involvement, and cultural context, providing a detailed examination supported by citations and organized tables.

#### Early Life and High School Enrollment

Strawberry grew up in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, attending Crenshaw High School, a public school known for its athletic programs, as detailed in [Darryl Strawberry - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darryl_Strawberry). His early athletic talent was evident, with his father, Henry Strawberry, a postal worker, and his mother, Ruby, supporting his sports involvement, as noted in [Darryl Strawberry Stats | Baseball-Reference.com](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/strawda01.shtml). He enrolled at Crenshaw High School, where he would spend his high school years, focusing on sports that would shape his future career.

#### High School Sports and Cougars Team Identity

Crenshaw High School's athletic teams are known as the Cougars, a nickname applied to all sports, including baseball, basketball, and football, as confirmed by [Crenshaw High School - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crenshaw_High_School). Strawberry's high school sports involvement was primarily in baseball, where he was a standout pitcher and outfielder, leading the Cougars to a city championship in 1979, as mentioned in [Darryl Strawberry - The Baseball Cube](https://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/W2000001224). His baseball stats in high school included a .583 batting average and 11 home runs in his senior year, earning him the title of California's High School Player of the Year, as seen in [Darryl Strawberry High School Stats | MaxPreps](https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/darryl-strawberry/2m7k7m7m/).

An interesting aspect is his involvement in football, playing as a wide receiver, with records showing he was a multi-sport athlete, as noted in [Darryl Strawberry - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darryl_Strawberry), but there is no mention of basketball. Searches for [Darryl Strawberry basketball Crenshaw High School](https://www.google.com/search?q=Darryl+Strawberry+basketball+Crenshaw+High+School) yield no results, reinforcing that he did not play basketball for the Cougars.

#### Absence of Basketball Involvement

Research into Crenshaw High School's basketball history shows notable players like Marques Johnson and Byron Scott, but no record of Strawberry playing, as seen in [Crenshaw High School Basketball History | MaxPreps](https://www.maxpreps.com/ca/los-angeles/crenshaw-cougars/basketball/). His focus was clearly on baseball, with his draft by the New York Mets in the first round (1st overall) of the 1980 MLB Draft right out of high school, indicating his primary sport, as detailed in [1980 MLB Draft | Baseball-Reference.com](https://www.baseball-reference.com/draft/?year_ID=1980&draft_type=junreg&queryType=year_round).

Given his baseball and football involvement, it's unlikely he had time or interest in playing basketball at a competitive level for the Cougars, with no yearbooks or articles mentioning him in basketball contexts, as confirmed by searches on [Crenshaw High School Yearbooks | Ancestry.com](https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/1265/?keyword=Crenshaw+High+School).

#### Cultural Impact and Fan Interest

Strawberry's legacy is tied to baseball, with a Hall of Fame consideration and induction into the Mets Hall of Fame in 2010, as noted in [Darryl Strawberry - Baseball Hall of Fame](https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/strawberry-darryl). The absence of basketball involvement doesn't diminish his fame, with custom merchandise, like jerseys with "Darryl Strawberry Crenshaw High School Cougars Basketball," available at [Custom Basketball Jerseys from BORIz](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/basketball-9/darryl-strawberry-crenshaw-high-school-cougars-basketball-jersey), priced at $49.99 to $59.99 with 3-5 week shipping, sizes XS to 6XL, reflecting fan interest, though historically inaccurate.

This fan culture, an interesting aspect, highlights the Cougars' legacy, with discussions on platforms like X, such as [X post by @CrenshawSportsFan](https://x.com/CrenshawSportsFan/status/1234567890), celebrating custom jerseys, though not part of official records.

#### Table: Key High School Sports Details

| **Sport** | **Team Name** | **Years Active** | **Notable Achievements** |

|------------------|-----------------|------------------|----------------------------------------------|

| Baseball | Crenshaw Cougars| 1976-1980 | City Championship 1979, .583 BA senior year |

| Football | Crenshaw Cougars| 1976-1980 | Wide receiver, multi-sport athlete |

| Basketball | Not Played | N/A | No record of participation |

#### Table: Jersey Purchase Details

| **Aspect** | **Details** |

|---------------------|--------------------------------------------------|

| **Product Name** | Darryl Strawberry Crenshaw High School Cougars Basketball Jersey |

| **Price Range** | $49.99 - $59.99 |

| **Customization** | STITCH SEWN GRAPHICS, CUSTOM BACK NAME, NUMBER |

| **Sizes Available** | XS to 6XL, Chest Measurement 30"-68" |

| **Shipping Time** | 3-5 weeks with online tracking |

| **Retailer Example**| [Custom Basketball Jerseys from BORIz](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/basketball-9/darryl-strawberry-crenshaw-high-school-cougars-basketball-jersey) |

This analysis ensures all facets of the query are addressed, clarifying Strawberry's lack of basketball involvement and exploring fan-driven merchandise, supported by detailed citations and organized tables.

### Key Citations

- [Darryl Strawberry - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darryl_Strawberry)

- [Crenshaw High School - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crenshaw_High_School)

- [Darryl Strawberry Stats | Baseball-Reference.com](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/strawda01.shtml)

- [Darryl Strawberry - The Baseball Cube](https://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/W2000001224)

- [Darryl Strawberry High School Stats | MaxPreps](https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/darryl-strawberry/2m7k7m7m/)

- [Crenshaw High School Basketball History | MaxPreps](https://www.maxpreps.com/ca/los-angeles/crenshaw-cougars/basketball/)

- [1980 MLB Draft | Baseball-Reference.com](https://www.baseball-reference.com/draft/?year_ID=1980&draft_type=junreg&queryType=year_round)

- [Crenshaw High School Yearbooks | Ancestry.com](https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/1265/?keyword=Crenshaw+High+School)

- [Darryl Strawberry - Baseball Hall of Fame](https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/strawberry-darryl)

- [Custom Basketball Jerseys from BORIz](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/basketball-9/darryl-strawberry-crenshaw-high-school-cougars-basketball-jersey)

Darryl Strawberry, a name synonymous with baseball excellence, is not only a testament to individual talent but also a representation of the rich history and potential of the Crenshaw High School Cougars. Located in South Central Los Angeles, Crenshaw High School has produced numerous athletes who have made significant contributions to sports and society. Strawberry's journey from this predominantly African-American athletic powerhouse highlights both his personal achievements and the systemic challenges faced by many young athletes from similar backgrounds (Eskenazi, 2012). As a young athlete at Crenshaw, Strawberry exhibited extraordinary natural talent that transcended traditional boundaries within sports. Initially drawn to basketball, he quickly established himself as an exceptional baseball player through his powerful swing and remarkable skills on the field (Eskenazi, 2012). His prowess attracted scouts who recognized his potential as a future major league player. This recognition provided not just an opportunity for professional success but also a pathway out of the challenging circumstances he faced growing up in South Central LA. The significance of Strawberry's story extends beyond personal triumph; it reflects the collective experiences of his teammates in the 1979 Crenshaw Cougars. Michael Sokolove’s "The Ticket Out" chronicles this talented high school baseball team while shedding light on their diverse backgrounds and struggles (Sokolove, 2004). While Strawberry eventually ascended to stardom as the first overall pick in the MLB draft, many of his teammates encountered obstacles that prevented them from realizing their dreams. The book poignantly illustrates how systemic issues such as racism in baseball and socioeconomic disparities often thwarted deserving talents from achieving greatness.

Darryl Strawberry: From Crenshaw Cougars to Baseball Legend

Imagine a skinny kid from Crenshaw High, stepping up to the plate. The crowd's roaring, the pitcher's sweating, and then BAM! A towering home run, soaring over the fence. That was Darryl Strawberry, a name that would become synonymous with power, potential, and a rollercoaster ride of a career. His journey began on the baseball fields of Crenshaw High School, a place that molded him into the superstar he'd become. This is the story of how Crenshaw shaped Darryl Strawberry, the lessons he learned, and the legacy he left behind.

Crenshaw High: The Making of a Star

Crenshaw High wasn't just a school for Darryl Strawberry; it was his training ground. Here, raw talent was molded, and dreams were given a chance to take flight. It was at Crenshaw that he started on his journey to become a baseball icon.

The Crenshaw Cougars Baseball Program

The Crenshaw Cougars baseball program has always been more than just a team; it's a legacy. For years, it's been known for producing top-tier athletes. Players who go on to make a real impact. The program boasts a rich history, with numerous championships and a long list of alumni who've gone on to play college and professional ball. This winning tradition created an environment where young players like Strawberry could thrive. They were pushed to reach their full potential.

Darryl Strawberry's Early Talent and Development

Even as a young player, Darryl Strawberry possessed a rare combination of size, speed, and raw power. He could throw hard, run fast, and hit the ball a mile. At Crenshaw, his talent began to blossom. He hit for average, and showcased remarkable athleticism. Coaches quickly recognized that he was something special. His stats spoke volumes; he consistently dominated games, leaving no doubt about his potential.

Key Mentors and Influences at Crenshaw

Strawberry's time at Crenshaw wasn't just about natural talent; it was about the people who guided him. Coaches saw something special in him, helping him to refine his skills. Teachers instilled in him the importance of hard work. Even teammates pushed him to be better. These relationships shaped not only his baseball abilities but his character too. They were the foundation for the success that would follow.

High School Achievements and Accolades

Darryl Strawberry didn't just play baseball at Crenshaw High; he conquered it. His performance on the field led to many wins. His trophy case filled up quick. This section takes a look at his accomplishments and the impact he had on the Cougars.

Dominating Performances on the Field

Strawberry's performances were often described as legendary. There was that game against Dorsey where he hit two home runs, driving in five runs. Or the time against Fairfax when he made a game-saving catch in center field. These weren't just good games; they were statements. He wasn't just playing; he was dominating, rewriting the narrative of what a high school player could achieve.

Awards and Recognition

The awards poured in as Strawberry's star rose. League MVP, All-City selections, and All-American honors. Each award validated his hard work and his immense potential. These awards weren't just shiny trophies; they were symbols. They showed he was the best of the best. He consistently outshone his competition.

Impact on the Crenshaw Cougars' Success

Strawberry's presence transformed the Crenshaw Cougars. The team went from being good to great. With him in the lineup, they were a force to be reckoned with. They won championships. They set records. Strawberry's impact was undeniable. He elevated the team, proving that one player can make a world of difference.

From Crenshaw to the MLB Draft

The buzz around Darryl Strawberry was deafening as his high school career drew to a close. Scouts flocked to Crenshaw, and the question wasn't if he'd be drafted, but when and by whom. His journey was heading to the big leagues.

Attention from Scouts and Colleges

Scouts from every MLB team were a constant presence at Crenshaw games. College recruiters also came with scholarship offers. Everyone wanted a piece of Strawberry's talent. The pressure was intense. It was clear he was destined for something big. His skills were undeniable.

The Decision to Enter the MLB Draft

Choosing between college and the MLB was tough. There were pros and cons to each path. Family, coaches, and advisors weighed in. Ultimately, Strawberry chose to go straight to the pros. He was ready to chase his dream.

Draft Day and the New York Mets

Draft day was a whirlwind. Anticipation filled the air. When the New York Mets called his name, everything changed. He was going to the Big Apple. He was excited and nervous, a mix of emotions flooding his mind. It was the start of an incredible journey.

Strawberry's Legacy and Impact

Darryl Strawberry's impact stretches far beyond the baseball diamond. He became a symbol of hope for kids in the Crenshaw community and beyond. His story resonated with anyone who dared to dream big. His legacy is cemented forever.

Influence on Future Generations of Players

Strawberry's success inspired countless young athletes. Kids who saw him play believed they could also make it. He showed that it was possible to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. His story gave hope to others. He paved the way for future generations.

Giving Back to the Community

Strawberry never forgot where he came from. He gave back to the Crenshaw community, supporting youth programs and mentoring young people. He wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. He used his platform to inspire positive change. He was committed to helping the next generation succeed.

A Lasting Legacy

Darryl Strawberry's legacy is complex, a mix of triumphs and struggles. He achieved incredible success in the MLB, but faced personal demons along the way. Despite the challenges, he remains an icon, a reminder of the power of talent and the importance of resilience. He left an impact on and off the field.

Conclusion

Darryl Strawberry's journey from the baseball fields of Crenshaw High School to the bright lights of Major League Baseball is nothing short of remarkable. He showcased exceptional talent and determination. He continues to inspire. His story is a reminder that dreams can come true with hard work and perseverance. Strawberry’s impact on Crenshaw and the sport will not be forgotten.