Here’s an overview of the players who made up the 1967 Topps All-Star Rookie Team and their impactful careers.
Dick Dietz – C – Giants
Dick Dietz, “The Mule,” played with the San Francisco Giants and was known for his powerful bat and strong arm. Over his career, he achieved a .261 batting average, 66 home runs, and 301 RBIs. His 1970 season was a highlight, where he earned an All-Star selection and posted 22 home runs and 107 RBIs. Equally, Dietz was one of the first players to draw a significant number of intentional walks, and his plate discipline added a unique dimension to his offensive game.
Lee May – 1B – Reds
Known as the “Big Bopper,” Lee May was a powerful slugger who became a central figure in the Reds’ “Big Red Machine” before being traded to the Astros. With a career .267 batting average, 354 home runs, and 1,244 RBIs, May was a force at the plate, posting six seasons with 20+ home runs. A three-time All-Star, he also played for the Royals and Orioles, contributing to Baltimore’s 1979 AL pennant win.
Rod Carew – 2B – Twins
Rod Carew, known for his extraordinary batting skills, spent his 19-year Hall of Fame career with the Twins and Angels. With a career .328 batting average, Carew won seven batting titles and accumulated 3,053 hits, 92 home runs, and 1,015 RBIs. Above all, the 1967 AL Rookie of the Year, Carew was a perennial All-Star and was renowned for his consistent contact hitting and speed. Unquestionably, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1991.
Bobby Etheridge – 3B – Giants
Bobby Etheridge’s career was brief but promising, primarily with the San Francisco Giants. Known for his solid fielding, Etheridge batted .244 with two home runs and 25 RBIs over two seasons. Though he didn’t have a lengthy career, Etheridge’s fielding prowess and early potential left an impression during his time with the Giants.
Tim Cullen – SS – Senators
Tim Cullen was known for his reliable defense at second base and shortstop during his time with the Senators and White Sox. Over his nine-year career, Cullen posted a .220 batting average, with 9 home runs and 134 RBIs. While not a major power hitter, his glove and versatility made him a valuable asset in the infield, particularly for the Washington Senators.
Rick Monday – OF – Athletics
No Trophy
Rick Monday was the first player ever selected in the MLB Draft and went on to have an impressive 19-year career. He’s also known for his clutch hitting and patriotic moment saving the American flag from being burned on the field. He had a .264 average, 241 home runs, and 775 RBIs. Notwithstanding, Monday was an All-Star twice and contributed to the Dodgers’ 1981 World Series title.
Reggie Smith – OF – Red Sox
Reggie Smith was a versatile and powerful hitter who played for the Red Sox, Cardinals, and Dodgers. Over his 17-year career, Smith achieved a .287 average, 314 home runs, and 1,092 RBIs. A seven-time All-Star, he contributed to two World Series appearances with the Dodgers. He was also known for his switch-hitting power and excellent defensive play in the outfield.
Walt Williams – OF – White Sox
Walt “No-Neck” Williams was a fan favorite, known for his unique batting stance and hustle. Compiling .270 batting average, 33 home runs, and 173 RBIs over 10 seasons, Williams was admired for his contact hitting and speed. Subsequently, he became a popular figure in Chicago, where he played most of his career with the White Sox.
Dick Hughes – P – Cardinals
No Trophy
Dick Hughes had a remarkable 1967 season, going 16-6 with a 2.67 ERA and finishing second in NL Rookie of the Year. Despite his early success, Hughes’ career was cut short by injuries. He ended with a 27-18 record and a 2.99 ERA. His contributions helped the Cardinals capture the 1967 World Series title.
Tom Seaver – P – Mets
“Tom Terrific” Seaver is regarded as one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history. Over a 20-year career, he posted a 311-205 record with a 2.86 ERA and 3,640 strikeouts. Indeed, Seaver won the 1967 NL Rookie of the Year, three Cy Young Awards, and was a 12-time All-Star. He was instrumental in the “Miracle Mets” 1969 World Series win. In truth, its no surprise he was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1992.
Rich Nye – P – Cubs
No Trophy
Rich Nye had a promising start with the Cubs, recording a 26-31 record and a 3.71 ERA over his five-year career. Known for his intelligence and interest in science, he eventually pursued a career as a veterinarian after baseball. His strong rookie season helped establish him as a reliable starter for the Cubs in the late 1960s.
In conclusion, the 1967 Topps All-Star Rookie Team showcased an impressive range of talent, with several players having Hall of Fame careers. These athletes exemplified the spirit of the game and left lasting legacies in baseball history.