“Simba” was smack in the middle of an incredible run for ANY catcher in Major League history, collecting over 190 hits twice, driving in over 100 runs twice, while hitting as high as .332, getting named to the National League All-Star team three straight years between 1972-1974.
The man went on to have one of the greatest MLB careers for catchers, playing 21-years for the Cardinals, Milwaukee Brewers and Atlanta Braves, hitting .285 with 248 home runs and 1389 runs batted in and scoring 1074 runs, with 2472 hits and 483 doubles.
Along the way he made eight All-Star teams while getting MVP consideration seven seasons, yet unbelievably, when it was time for him to get some Hall of Fame love in 1994, he only received 3.7% of the vote, knocking him of the ballot after only one year. Just ridiculous.
Seriously, this was one of those moments when I realized how much of a joke the HOF is, and I’ve been sour on it ever since.
Anyway, Ted Simmons, if not under the shadows of Johnny Bench, Gary Carter, Carlton Fisk, would be in, and had an amazing career that should be appreciated a lot more.