Joe Orsulak's journey in Major League Baseball began when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the sixth round of the 1980 MLB Draft. He made his debut with the Pirates, showcasing his skills as an outfielder. Orsulak quickly became known for his consistent batting and reliable fielding, which earned him a spot in the Pirates' lineup.

After spending a few seasons with Pittsburgh, Orsulak was traded to the Baltimore Orioles in 1987. It was with the Orioles that he spent a significant portion of his career, becoming a regular fixture in their outfield. During his time in Baltimore, Orsulak was appreciated for his steady performance at the plate and his ability to play all three outfield positions. His batting average often hovered around the .270 mark, and he was known for his ability to get on base and provide solid defense.

Orsulak's tenure with the Orioles lasted until 1992, after which he joined the New York Mets. With the Mets, he continued to be a reliable player, contributing both offensively and defensively. His time in New York was marked by his adaptability and his role as a dependable team player. Orsulak's experience and consistency made him a valuable asset to the Mets during his stint with the team.

In 1994, Orsulak signed with the Florida Marlins, where he played for a brief period before moving on to the Montreal Expos. His career with the Expos was short-lived, and he eventually returned to the Marlins. Throughout these transitions, Orsulak maintained his reputation as a steady outfielder and a competent hitter.

Orsulak's final stop in Major League Baseball was with the Seattle Mariners. Although his time with the Mariners was brief, he continued to demonstrate the skills that had kept him in the league for over a decade. By the time he retired, Orsulak had played in over 1,400 games, accumulated more than 1,200 hits, and maintained a career batting average of .273.