Gabriel Stefan "Gabe" Kapler (born August 31, 1975 in Hollywood, California) is an outfielder and right-handed batter who currently plays for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan's Central League. Previously, he played with the Detroit Tigers (1998-99), Texas Rangers (2000-02), Colorado Rockies (2002-03) and Boston Red Sox (2004). After winning the World Series with the Red Sox in 2004 as a late-inning defensive replacement, Kapler opted to play in Japan where he could start rather than be a backup.
Much of Kapler's value comes with his glove. He can do a fine job in all three outfield positions, combining with good range and a strong arm. Kapler is not an automatic out at the plate. An aggresive swinger who doesn't walk much, his swing is long and slow with occasional power. He is as aggressive on the bases as he is at the plate and will not hesitate to try for the extra base.
In seven major league seasons, Kapler was a .272 hitter with 61 home runs and 281 RBI in 742 games.
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