Mike Cameron Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Mike Cameron — The Resilient Slugger from LaGrange

On a chilly January morning in 1973, in LaGrange, Georgia, a future Major League Baseball standout named Mike Cameron was born on January 8, 1973. That birthday would mark the beginning of a journey that transformed a small-town kid — raised by his grandmother — into one of MLB’s most respected center fielders.

From Humble Beginnings to Big League Dreams

Growing up in LaGrange, young Mike faced early adversity. When he was seven, he moved in with his grandmother after his grandfather passed away — a move that shaped his sense of responsibility and family.  By high school, at LaGrange High, Mike played both baseball and football. Yet a setback — failing chemistry class — led his grandmother to forbid him from playing baseball during his junior year, which limited his early exposure to scouts.

Still, his talent was undeniable. The Chicago White Sox drafted him in the 18th round of the 1991 MLB Draft. After a few seasons in the minors, Cameron made his Major League debut on August 27, 1995.

A Career Marked by Power, Speed, and Defensive Grace

Over a 16-season MLB career, Mike Cameron played for an impressive eight teams, including the Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners, New York Mets, San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, Boston Red Sox, and Florida Marlins.

Cameron combined rare power and speed. He finished with 278 home runs and 968 runs batted in, while stealing 297 bases — making him one of the small group of players to join the exclusive 250-home run / 250-stolen base club.

Defensively, he shone. In 2001, 2003, and 2006 he earned the prestigious Gold Glove Award. In 2001 he also was selected as an All-Star. 

Perhaps his most iconic moment came on May 2, 2002, when playing for the Seattle Mariners — Cameron became the 13th player in MLB history to hit four home runs in a single game. A feat as rare as it is legendary.

He also holds the distinction of being the only MLB player to hit two home runs in the same game with eight different teams — underscoring both his longevity and consistent performance regardless of jersey.

Life Beyond the Diamond: Family, Faith & Giving Back

Off the field, Mike Cameron’s life has been grounded in family and values. Around 1999 he married his high school classmate, JaBreka Cameron. The couple has three children: sons Dazmon and Mehki, and a daughter T’aja.

His eldest son, Daz Cameron, followed in his footsteps — drafted high in the 2015 MLB draft, carrying the Cameron legacy forward.

Cameron has also shown a deep commitment to philanthropy. He authored a children’s book, It Takes a Team: Mike Cameron, in which he shares life lessons and stresses the value of teamwork — a message deeply rooted in his own journey.

He founded the Cam4Kids Foundation, and in 2002 hosted the First State Golf Tournament for Inner City Kids in Seattle, aiming to provide scholarships to underserved youth. Over the years, he has supported causes including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Starlight Foundation.

The Financial Legacy: What’s He Worth?

Public estimates of Mike Cameron’s net worth place it at roughly US$36 million.

That figure reflects not only his long career and substantial MLB contracts, but also likely earnings from endorsements and post-retirement engagements. At the same time, details about his properties, investments, or business ventures remain largely private — consistent with his quiet, grounded approach to life beyond baseball.

Enduring Respect: A Legacy That Transcends Numbers

Mike Cameron’s story isn’t just about stats or salary. It’s a story of resilience: raised by grandparents, navigating early setbacks, and yet rising to the top tier of his sport. It’s a story of consistency — proven year after year, team after team — and of character: defined by generosity, family, and community-mindedness.

His birthday, January 8, 1973, remains a quiet reminder of where it all began — in a small Georgia town. And his journey shows what happens when talent meets hard work, discipline, and heart. For aspiring athletes, and even beyond sports, Mike Cameron remains a powerful example of turning humble beginnings into a legacy that endures.