Ken Singleton's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of consistent performance and steady excellence. Born on June 10, 1947, in New York City, Singleton grew up in a sports-loving family. He attended Hofstra University, where his baseball talents began to shine, catching the attention of professional scouts.
In 1967, the New York Mets selected Singleton in the first round of the MLB draft. He made his major league debut with the Mets in 1970. Although his time with the Mets was brief, it provided him with the foundation to develop his skills at the highest level. In 1972, Singleton was traded to the Montreal Expos, where he began to establish himself as a reliable outfielder and a potent switch-hitter.
Singleton's tenure with the Expos lasted until 1974, during which he demonstrated his ability to hit for both average and power. His performance in Montreal caught the eye of the Baltimore Orioles, who acquired him in a trade before the 1975 season. It was with the Orioles that Singleton truly flourished, becoming an integral part of the team's lineup for nearly a decade.
During his time with Baltimore, Singleton was known for his disciplined approach at the plate. He consistently posted high on-base percentages, thanks to his keen eye and patience. Singleton's ability to draw walks and avoid strikeouts made him a valuable asset in the Orioles' batting order. His best season came in 1979 when he finished second in the American League MVP voting. That year, he hit 35 home runs, drove in 111 runs, and maintained a .295 batting average, helping lead the Orioles to the World Series.
Singleton's contributions were not limited to his offensive prowess. He was also a dependable outfielder, known for his strong arm and solid defensive skills. His leadership qualities and calm demeanor made him a respected figure in the clubhouse, and he played a crucial role in mentoring younger players.
Throughout his career, Singleton was selected to three All-Star Games (1977, 1979, and 1981) and earned the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award in 1982, recognizing his sportsmanship and community involvement. His consistent performance helped the Orioles remain competitive in the American League, and he was a key player in their 1983 World Series championship team, although he did not play in the series due to injury.
Singleton retired after the 1984 season, leaving behind a legacy of reliability and professionalism. Over his 15-year career, he amassed 2,029 hits, 246 home runs, and 1,065 RBIs, with a lifetime batting average of .282. His ability to switch-hit with power and precision made him a unique and valuable player during his era.
Following his playing days, Singleton transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, where he continued to share his love and knowledge of the game with fans. His insights and articulate commentary have made him a respected voice in baseball media.
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