Ott's role with the Pirates grew over the years, and by the late 1970s, he had become a regular fixture in the lineup. His best season came in 1979, when he played a crucial role in helping the Pirates capture the World Series title. During that championship season, Ott appeared in 116 games, batting .273 with 7 home runs and 51 RBIs. His performance in the World Series against the Baltimore Orioles was solid, as he contributed both offensively and defensively to the Pirates' success.
Known for his toughness and competitive nature, Ott was a reliable presence behind the plate. He was particularly adept at handling the Pirates' pitching staff, which included notable pitchers such as Bert Blyleven and John Candelaria. Ott's ability to work well with pitchers was a key aspect of his game, and he was respected for his game-calling skills.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Ott was also known for his ability to hit for average. While not a power hitter, he was capable of delivering timely hits and was a consistent performer at the plate. Over his career, Ott maintained a batting average of .259, with 33 home runs and 195 RBIs in 567 games.
Ott's tenure with the Pirates came to an end after the 1980 season when he was traded to the California Angels. His time with the Angels was brief, as he played only one season with the team in 1981. After his stint with the Angels, Ott's playing career came to a close.
Following his retirement as a player, Ott transitioned into coaching and spent time working with various minor league teams. His experience and knowledge of the game made him a valuable asset in developing young talent. Ott's post-playing career also included time as a coach at the major league level, where he continued to share his expertise in catching and game strategy.
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