Greg Gross, a left-handed outfielder and pinch-hitter, spent 17 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies. Born on August 1, 1952, in York, Pennsylvania, Gross began his professional career when he was drafted by the Houston Astros in the fourth round of the 1970 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut on September 5, 1973, with the Astros.
In his rookie season in 1974, Gross quickly established himself as a reliable contact hitter. He batted .314, earning him the National League Rookie of the Year Award. His ability to get on base and his disciplined approach at the plate were hallmarks of his playing style. Gross was not known for his power, hitting only seven home runs in his entire career, but his keen eye and consistent batting average made him a valuable asset to his teams.
After four seasons with the Astros, Gross was traded to the Chicago Cubs in 1976. During his time with the Cubs, he continued to demonstrate his skills as a dependable hitter and outfielder. However, it was his trade to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1979 that marked a significant chapter in his career. With the Phillies, Gross became an integral part of the team’s success in the early 1980s.
Gross played a crucial role in the Phillies' 1980 World Series championship team. Although primarily used as a pinch-hitter, his contributions off the bench were vital during the team's postseason run. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations made him a valuable player during the playoffs. Gross's performance in the 1980 National League Championship Series and the World Series helped the Phillies secure their first championship in franchise history.
Throughout his career, Gross was known for his exceptional pinch-hitting abilities. He ranks among the all-time leaders in pinch hits, with 143 in his career. This skill made him a go-to option for managers looking to capitalize on late-game opportunities. His approach at the plate, characterized by patience and precision, allowed him to excel in these high-stakes moments.
In addition to his time with the Phillies, Gross returned to the Astros for a brief stint in 1989 before retiring from professional baseball. Over the course of his career, he compiled a .287 batting average, with 1,073 hits and 263 RBIs. While he may not have been a power hitter, his consistency and ability to get on base were invaluable to the teams he played for.
After retiring as a player, Gross transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with a new generation of players. He served as a coach for various teams, including a stint with the Phillies, where he continued to contribute to the sport he had dedicated his life to.
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