Ken Phelps, a left-handed power hitter, spent much of his Major League Baseball career as a designated hitter and first baseman. Born on August 6, 1954, in Seattle, Washington, Phelps attended Washington State University, where he honed his skills on the baseball field. His professional journey began when he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 15th round of the 1976 amateur draft.
Phelps spent several years in the minor leagues, showcasing his ability to hit home runs and get on base. Despite his impressive minor league statistics, he struggled to find a permanent spot on a major league roster in the early years of his career. It wasn't until he joined the Seattle Mariners that he began to see more consistent playing time.
With the Mariners, Phelps became known for his power at the plate. He made his major league debut with Seattle in 1981, but it was during the mid-1980s that he truly began to demonstrate his capabilities. In 1984, Phelps hit 24 home runs in just 290 at-bats, a testament to his ability to hit for power. His on-base percentage was also notable, as he frequently drew walks, contributing to his overall offensive value.
Phelps' tenure with the Mariners lasted until 1988, when he was traded to the New York Yankees. The trade, which involved Jay Buhner going to Seattle, became infamous among Yankees fans, as Buhner went on to have a successful career with the Mariners. Meanwhile, Phelps provided the Yankees with a left-handed power option, though his time in New York was relatively short-lived.
After his stint with the Yankees, Phelps played for the Oakland Athletics and the Cleveland Indians. His role on these teams was primarily as a designated hitter and pinch hitter, where he continued to demonstrate his power-hitting abilities. Despite not being a regular starter, Phelps maintained a respectable on-base percentage and slugging percentage throughout his career.
Phelps retired from professional baseball after the 1990 season. Over the course of his career, he accumulated 123 home runs and a .239 batting average.
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