landon thome
Nazareth Academy Player of the Year
Landon Thome got Nazareth on the scoreboard right away by hitting a single to right field in his first at-bat against Sycamore in the state semifinals, enabling a runner to cross and giving them the lead.
Though Thome last played Major League Baseball ten years ago, he remains involved with baseball as a special assistant to White Sox general manager Rick Hahn and coaches his son Landon at Nazareth.
Early Life and Education
Landon Thome was raised playing sports under his father, former Major League baseball player Jim Thome. At Limestone High School and Illinois Central College – where he also played baseball and basketball – Landon learned valuable life lessons while learning from his professional journey.
Thome graduated college and was quickly signed by the Indians after being drafted in 1989, remaining with them until leaving after 2002 season for Philadelphia. Now an iconic figure of Cleveland baseball, his image stands outside Progressive Field as a reminder.
Thome currently holds multiple roles within baseball: special assistant to White Sox general manager Rick Hahn; president of MLB Players Alumni Association and broadcasting work for MLB Network; as well as coaching his son’s varsity team at Nazareth Academy in Illinois.
Professional Career
Former MLB designated hitter and corner infielder Jim Thome has spent 22 seasons between 1991 and 2012 playing baseball professionally for various teams such as Cleveland Indians, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins and Baltimore Orioles.
He has amassed 612 home runs over his career, placing eighth on the all-time home run list and has an excellent chance at one day becoming an inductee into the Hall of Fame.
Landon, his son, has followed in his father’s footsteps by playing freshman second base at Nazareth Academy High School in LaGrange Park, Illinois. Landon boasts strong eyes, quick wrists, and an exceptional team-first approach which make him one of the premier players on his squad. In addition to being an outstanding second baseman, Landon also is an exceptional hitter.
Achievement and Honors
Thome has long been recognized as one of baseball’s premier sluggers, earning him first ballot entry into the Hall of Fame. Additionally, his integrity and humility make him an ideal recipient of the Stan Musial Award (named for one of baseball’s greatest figures).
Thome married Andrea Pacione in 1998 and together they have two children together: Lila and Landon. He has also taken on numerous philanthropic endeavors such as supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Thome currently works as a special assistant to White Sox general manager Rick Hahn, president of the MLB Players Alumni Association and an MLB Network broadcaster. Additionally, Thome serves as an assistant coach with LaGrange Park Nazareth High School baseball team which recently won Illinois High School Association Class 3A state title by defeating Grayslake Central 7-2 at Duly Health and Care Field.
Personal Life
Jim Thome is an unassuming individual who takes great pleasure in watching his son Landon pursue a baseball career at Nazareth Academy varsity baseball team; they currently are competing for a state championship title this year.
Thome established himself as one of the premier power hitters during his 22-year MLB career, amassing 612 homers – making him one of the eight all-time leaders.
Thome can take great pride in his accomplishments, including his recent Hall of Fame induction. Additionally, Progressive Field features his statue and jersey number was retired by the Indians. Although some Clevelanders remain disgruntled about him leaving Cleveland for Philadelphia in 2002, but Thome hasn’t let it stop him living his life freely.
Net Worth
Thome has amassed 612 career homers during his 22-year MLB career and ranks eighth all time for career home runs totals. Additionally, he was inducted into the American League Hall of Fame and has received various accolades for his success.
Thome’s former teammates speak highly of his humility and work ethic, while his philanthropic activities focus on helping sick children and animals.
Thome lives in Peoria, Illinois with his wife Andrea and two children, rising early each day at 5 AM to make breakfast for his children before transporting them to school.
Thome owns several luxury properties across the country. He recently sold his Chicago stone-and-brick mansion for $2.6 million and owns an estate worth $4.6 million in Burr Ridge with seven bedrooms, seven baths, tennis court, theater room and paneled library – in total an amazing package.