 Born in Oklahoma City, Russell attended Norman High School in Norman, Oklahoma, and played college baseball for the University of Oklahoma after being selected by the Montreal Expos in the 4th round (88th overall) of the 1979 MLB Draft.In 1982 he was selected by the Phillies in the 1st round and the 13th overall pick in the draft.He made his major league debut with the Phillies on June 22, , and stayed with the team through the 1988 season.