McAuliffe began his MLB career with the Detroit Tigers, debuting on September 17, 1960. Initially, he played as a shortstop but later transitioned to second base, where he spent the majority of his career. Known for his unique batting stance, McAuliffe stood with an open stance, which was unconventional at the time. This stance, however, did not hinder his performance at the plate. Over the years, he became known for his power-hitting ability, especially for a middle infielder.
Throughout the 1960s, McAuliffe was a consistent presence in the Tigers' lineup. He was selected as an All-Star three times, in 1965, 1966, and 1967, showcasing his skills among the league's best. In 1968, McAuliffe played a crucial role in helping the Tigers win the World Series. During that season, he hit 16 home runs and had 56 RBIs, contributing significantly to the team's success. His performance in the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals was instrumental in the Tigers' victory, as they clinched the championship in seven games.
Defensively, McAuliffe was known for his range and strong arm. Although he led the league in errors a few times, his ability to make difficult plays and turn double plays was highly regarded. His aggressive style of play sometimes led to on-field altercations, most notably a brawl with Tommy John of the Chicago White Sox in 1968, which resulted in a suspension.
In 1974, McAuliffe was traded to the Boston Red Sox, where he played for one season before retiring. During his time with the Red Sox, he served as a utility player, providing depth and experience to the roster. McAuliffe retired from professional baseball after the 1975 season, concluding a career that spanned 16 years.
Over the course of his career, McAuliffe compiled a .247 batting average, hit 197 home runs, and had 697 RBIs. His ability to hit for power and play multiple infield positions made him a valuable asset to his teams. After retiring, McAuliffe remained involved in baseball, participating in various alumni events and activities related to the sport.
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