The 1983 Topps All-Star Rookie Team was full of exciting players, many of whom made significant marks in baseball. Here’s a look back at each player, their career stats, and memorable highlights.
Bob Kearney – C – Mariners
Bob Kearney had a solid seven-year MLB career, playing primarily for the Mariners and A’s. Known for his strong arm behind the plate, Kearney batted .233 with 27 home runs and 138 RBIs. He brought a steady defensive presence and provided some power at a key position for Seattle in the mid-80s.
Greg Brock – 1B – Dodgers
Greg Brock was a power-hitting first baseman known for his potential to hit home runs. Over his 10-year career, Brock hit .248 with 110 home runs and 462 RBIs while playing for the Dodgers and Brewers. Although he never fully lived up to early expectations as a power threat, Brock remained a reliable player and had several strong seasons with the Brewers in the late 80s.
Bill Doran – 2B – Astros
Bill Doran, known for his consistency and solid all-around game, spent the majority of his career with the Astros. Doran hit .266, with 84 home runs, 497 RBIs, and 209 stolen bases. A Gold Glove-caliber defender, Doran was a fan favorite in Houston, playing a key role for the Astros during the 1980s and adding veteran leadership late in his career with the Reds.
Nick Esasky – 3B – Reds
Nick Esasky, a versatile infielder and outfielder, brought power to the plate during his career. He hit .250, with 122 home runs and 427 RBIs, primarily with the Reds and Red Sox. In 1989, Esasky had a career year with 30 home runs and 108 RBIs for Boston. Unfortunately, vertigo forced him to retire early, ending a promising career prematurely.
Julio Franco – SS – Phillies
Julio Franco, known for his unique batting stance and longevity, played 23 seasons in MLB. Franco’s career stats include a .298 batting average, 173 home runs, and 1,194 RBIs. A three-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger, Franco remained productive well into his late 40s, making him one of the most enduring players in baseball history.
Mel Hall – OF – Cubs
Mel Hall was a flamboyant player with a strong bat, known for his clutch hitting. Over 13 seasons, he batted .276, with 134 home runs and 620 RBIs. Hall was particularly popular with Yankees fans in the late 80s and early 90s, where his bat brought excitement, though his career was overshadowed by controversies off the field.
Ron Kittle – OF – White Sox
Ron Kittle burst onto the scene in 1983, winning AL Rookie of the Year with 35 home runs and 100 RBIs. Kittle was known for his powerful swing and moonshot home runs, finishing his career with 176 home runs and 460 RBIs. Though he battled injuries, Kittle’s slugging ability made him a fan favorite on the South Side of Chicago.
Darryl Strawberry – OF – Mets
Darryl Strawberry, one of the most talented and dynamic players of the 80s, made a massive impact with his left-handed power and smooth swing. Over 17 seasons, Strawberry hit .259 with 335 home runs, 1,000 RBIs, and eight All-Star selections. He helped the Mets win the 1986 World Series and later won three titles with the Yankees, though his career was marred by off-field issues.
Mike Boddicker – P – Orioles
Mike Boddicker, known for his effective breaking ball, was a key pitcher for the Orioles and Red Sox. Boddicker won 134 games over his career, with a 3.80 ERA and 1,330 strikeouts. In 1983, he led the AL with a 2.77 ERA and won ALCS MVP honors as the Orioles went on to win the World Series. Boddicker remained a reliable starter throughout his career.
Matt Young – P – Mariners
Matt Young, a left-hander with a solid fastball, had a 10-year MLB career. He finished with a record of 55-95, a 4.40 ERA, and 817 strikeouts. Young’s best season was with the Mariners in 1983, when he earned All-Star honors. Although he struggled with control, Young’s resilience made him a valuable pitcher for multiple teams.
Conclusion
The 1983 Topps All-Star Rookie Team was a mix of talent, with some players achieving stardom and others known for their dedication to the game. From Darryl Strawberry’s meteoric rise with the Mets to Julio Franco’s record-breaking longevity, this team included both Hall of Fame-caliber talent and fan-favorite personalities. Their stories continue to resonate with baseball fans who remember the thrills and iconic moments these players provided.