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| 1999
Inductee Charlie Lea |
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Charlie Lea began his baseball career
at Kingsbury High School in Memphis. After graduation, he was drafted by the New
York Mets. Instead, Charlie headed for Shelby State Community College. There he
was drafted twice, once by the St. Louis Cardinals and once by the Chicago White
Sox. Lea decided to go on to Memphis State University and continue his education.
In 1978, Lea joined the Montreal Expos Baseball Club. He played for the Memphis
Chicks in the AA Southern League from 1978 to 1980 and was voted a AA Southern
League All-star in 1979 and 1980. |  |
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In 1980, Lea was called up to the majors to play for the Montreal Expos where
he played from 1980 to 1987. During this time, he pitched a no-hitter versus the
San Francisco Giants, was named National League Player of the Month and selected
as a National League All-Star where he was the starting and winning pitcher in
the 1984 All-Star game. | |
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In 1988, Lea played a season with the Minnesota Twins and he finished his major
league career with 62 wins under his belt. After retiring from baseball, Lea returned
to Memphis State University to finish his degree. In 1990 he graduated with honors,
earning a bachelors degree in business administration. In 1985, Lea was chosen
as the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Professional Athlete of the Year. |
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