Next up in the 1978 special sub-set "30-Home Run Club", celebrating the big sluggers of 1977, is none other than all-time great third baseman Mike Schmidt, who blasted 38 taters that season:
Now, you think the 38 homers, which was the third year in a row, would have been cause for celebration.
But
not in the Schmidt house, as after two straight seasons of leading the
league with such a number in 1975 and 1976, as well as a home run title
in 1974 with 36 homers, the 38 in 1977 was only good for fourth in his
league.
However the season he had in 1977 was no slouch, as he
also drove in 101 runs while hitting .274 with 104 walks, he made his
third All-Star tea,. took home his second Gold Glove, and finished tenth
in the MVP race.
Of course, we all know now that Schmidt
still had another five home run titles ahead of him, on his way to 548
for his career, as well as three MVP campaigns and a World Championship.
Not too shabby!
All
of this would eventually get him in the Hall of Fame, recognized as one
of, if not THE greatest third baseman the game has ever seen.
All Hail "Schmitty"!!!
