Wally Backman, a gritty and determined second baseman, spent his Major League Baseball career primarily with the New York Mets. Born on September 22, 1959, in Hillsboro, Oregon, Backman was drafted by the Mets in the first round of the 1977 MLB Draft. He quickly rose through the minor league ranks, making his MLB debut on September 2, 1980.
Backman became known for his scrappy playing style and ability to get on base. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches, he was not the most physically imposing player, but he made up for it with hustle and a keen baseball intellect. His role as a leadoff hitter was crucial in setting the table for the power hitters that followed in the Mets' lineup.
The 1984 season marked a turning point in Backman's career. He played in 141 games, batting .280 with 32 stolen bases, establishing himself as a regular starter. His performance helped the Mets become contenders in the National League East. The following year, Backman continued to be a reliable presence at second base, contributing to the Mets' strong showing in the division.
Backman's most memorable season came in 1986 when the Mets won the World Series. During the regular season, he hit .320, providing consistent offense and solid defense. In the postseason, Backman played a vital role in the Mets' success. His ability to get on base and execute small-ball tactics was instrumental in the team's victories over the Houston Astros in the National League Championship Series and the Boston Red Sox in the World Series.
After the championship season, Backman remained with the Mets for two more years. In 1988, he helped the team reach the playoffs again, although they fell short of another World Series appearance. Following the 1988 season, Backman was traded to the Minnesota Twins. His tenure with the Twins was brief, as he played only one season before moving on to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1990.
With the Pirates, Backman continued to be a valuable asset, contributing to the team's National League East title in 1990. He played in 104 games, batting .292 and providing veteran leadership to a young and talented roster. After his stint in Pittsburgh, Backman signed with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1991. He spent two seasons with the Phillies, serving as a utility infielder and mentor to younger players.
Backman's final MLB season came in 1993 with the Seattle Mariners. Although his playing time was limited, he continued to demonstrate the work ethic and tenacity that defined his career. Over 14 seasons in the major leagues, Backman compiled a .275 batting average, with 240 RBIs and 117 stolen bases.
Following his playing career, Backman transitioned into coaching and managing, bringing his extensive knowledge of the game to various minor league teams.
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