McGwire attended Damien High School where he played basketball, golf, and baseball (as a pitcher). He graduated in 1981 and declining an offer from the Montreal Expos to pitch, he instead attended the University of Southern California in 1982. He started his three years there as a pitcher, but a coach saw the hitting power and McGwire transferred to third base. During his time at USC he also pitched and played first base for the Glacier Pilots of Anchorage Alaska, an American Legion baseball team. His time in Alaska was when he began his pitcher to baseman switch. In 1984 his talents were again recognized when he was selected as third baseman for the USA Olympic team. Giving up his senior year at USC he was drafted by the A's in 1984. McGwire played in the minors for about 2 full seasons after college, spending the whole 1985 season in Modesto (A), then moving from Huntsville (AA) to Tacoma (AAA) and finally to the Oakland Athletics in 1986. He had a good first few seasons with the Athletics. However, in 1993 and 1994 he was plagued by injury. During the shortened 1995 season he picked back up. By 96 and 97 he was again one of the best power hitters in the baseball. In July of 1997 he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he currently has a contract through the 2001 season. Be sure to check out the Facts section of this page to see the long list of McGwire's awards, selections and notable career facts. Although he plays ball in St Louis, McGwire still lives in California. His son Matt, resides with his ex-wife and her new husband and travels with him for some games as the Cardinals bat boy. McGwire is also very active in charity work. He donates $1 million a year to his foundation for abused children, has done many autograph charity auctions, plays in charity Golf tournaments, and does other such endorsements and events to help those in need. Info on his charity for abused children and other work from him, the Cardinals team, and fans who help out can be found in the Charity Work section of this site.
