John Kruk was born in Charleston but grew up in Keyser, where he played high school and college baseball. He was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 1981 and made his major league debut in 1986.

After a strong 1987 season, Kruk was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1989. There, he became a star first baseman and played in three All-Star Games. He helped lead the Phillies to the 1993 World Series.

In 1994, Kruk battled cancer and knee injuries. He briefly played for the Chicago White Sox in 1995 and then retired after getting a hit in his final game. He ended his 10-year career with a .300 batting average and exactly 100 home runs.

After baseball, Kruk became a popular TV analyst and author.