 | Don Baylor, affectionately known as “Groove,” was a MLB Outfielder and Designated Hitter who played from 1970–1988. He is best remembered for his MVP season with the California Angels (1979) and his historic role as the first manager in Colorado Rockies history (1993–1998). Over his 19-season playing career, he also played for the Orioles (1970–1975), Athletics (1976, 1988), Yankees (1983–1985), Red Sox (1986–1987), and Twins (1987). Baylor finished his playing career with 2,135 hits, 338 home runs, and 1,276 RBI. Known for his physical presence and fearlessness at the plate, he retired as the modern-day leader in being hit by a pitch (267). Baylor achieved the rare feat of appearing in three consecutive World Series with three different teams (1986 Red Sox, 1987 Twins, and 1988 Athletics), winning a title with Minnesota in 1987. Career highlights and awards AL MVP (1979) All-Star (1979) 3× Silver Slugger Award (1983, 1985, 1986) AL RBI leader (1979) AL runs scored leader (1979) NL Manager of the Year (1995) Roberto Clemente Award (1985) California Angels Hall of Fame inductee As the Rockies’ first skipper, I have quite a few Rockies cards of Baylor. I have slowly started adding cards from his other teams during his MLB career. |
