The 1986 Topps All-Star Rookie Team introduced fans to an impressive lineup of players, several of whom became household names for their memorable achievements. Let’s explore the careers of these standout rookies.
Andy Allanson – C – Indians
Andy Allanson made an immediate impact with his strong arm behind the plate, quickly establishing himself as a reliable defensive catcher. In his rookie season, Allanson batted .225 with 1 home run and 31 RBIs, and over eight MLB seasons, he maintained a .240 batting average with 10 home runs and 140 RBIs. Known for his defensive skills, Allanson was a solid presence behind the plate.
Wally Joyner – 1B – Angels
Nicknamed “Wally World,” Wally Joyner was a fan favorite for the Angels, particularly for his breakout rookie season. In 1986, he hit .290 with 22 home runs and 100 RBIs, finishing second in the AL Rookie of the Year voting. Over 16 seasons, Joyner hit .289 with 204 home runs and 1,106 RBIs, and his consistency at the plate made him a dependable run producer for several teams.
Robby Thompson – 2B – Giants
Robby Thompson was a key piece for the Giants throughout the 80s and 90s, known for his stellar defense and clutch hitting. In 1986, he batted .271 with 5 home runs, 47 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases. Over his 11-year career, Thompson hit .257 with 119 home runs and 458 RBIs, earning two All-Star selections and a Gold Glove in 1993.
Dale Sveum – SS – Brewers
Dale Sveum, a versatile infielder, had a breakout year in 1987 when he hit 25 home runs with 95 RBIs. Though his rookie year was more modest with a .236 average and 7 homers, Sveum went on to play 12 MLB seasons, finishing with 69 home runs and 340 RBIs. Sveum later transitioned to a successful coaching and managerial career, including managing the Cubs in 2012-2013.
Andrés Thomas – SS – Braves
Andrés Thomas showed power potential as a shortstop, especially during his peak season in 1988 when he hit 13 home runs with 68 RBIs. In his six-year career, Thomas batted .234 with 42 home runs and 208 RBIs. Thomas was a steady infield presence for the Braves in the late 80s.
José Canseco – OF – Athletics
José Canseco, one of the most iconic power hitters of his era, won AL Rookie of the Year in 1986 with 33 home runs and 117 RBIs. He became the first player in MLB history to hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in a season. Canseco hit .266 with 462 home runs and 1,407 RBIs, becoming a six-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion.
Pete Incaviglia – OF – Rangers
Known for his raw power, Pete Incaviglia debuted without spending a day in the minor leagues. In his rookie season, he hit 30 home runs with 88 RBIs. Incaviglia hit .246 with 206 home runs and 655 RBIs, making him a feared slugger.
Cory Snyder – OF – Indians
Cory Snyder, known for his powerful arm in right field, hit 24 home runs and drove in 69 runs in his 1986 rookie season. Over his nine-year career, Snyder batted .247 with 149 home runs and 488 RBIs. His combination of power and defensive skills made him a valuable outfielder for several teams throughout the late 80s.
Danny Tartabull – DH – Mariners
Danny Tartabull quickly developed a reputation as a slugger, hitting .270 with 25 home runs and 96 RBIs in his rookie season. Over his 14-year career, Tartabull hit .273 with 262 home runs and 925 RBIs. His best season came in 1991 with the Royals, when he batted .316 with 31 home runs, earning him an All-Star selection.
Todd Worrell – P – Cardinals
Todd Worrell won NL Rookie of the Year in 1986 after recording 36 saves with a 2.08 ERA. Known for his fastball, Worrell went on to have a 10-year career with 256 saves and a 3.09 ERA. He was a three-time All-Star and a crucial part of the Cardinals’ bullpen, playing a key role in the postseason.
Bruce Ruffin – P – Phillies
Bruce Ruffin’s 1986 rookie season saw him go 9-4 with a 2.46 ERA. Known for his sinker, Ruffin pitched 12 seasons in the majors, with a career 3.94 ERA and 60 wins. He later became an effective reliever for the Rockies in the mid-90s.
Conclusion
The 1986 Topps All-Star Rookie Team featured power, speed, and talent across the board. From Canseco’s historic 40-40 season to Worrell’s bullpen dominance, each player made a unique impact in MLB. These players thrilled fans with their early promise, leaving a legacy that still resonates in baseball history.
This team had a unique blend of power hitters, stellar defenders, and standout pitchers. Fans remember them not just for their rookie performances but for their contributions to the game as a whole.