The 1987 Topps All-Star Rookie Team introduced baseball fans to an impressive lineup of players, many of whom went on to have memorable careers. Here’s a closer look at each player’s journey and achievements.
Matt Nokes – C – Tigers
Matt Nokes exploded onto the scene in 1987, hitting .289 with 32 home runs and 87 RBIs, which earned him an All-Star selection. Known for his left-handed power, Nokes finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting. Across an 11-year career, he maintained a .254 batting average with 136 home runs and 422 RBIs.
Mark McGwire – 1B – Athletics
“Big Mac” was a household name thanks to his record-setting rookie season, smashing 49 home runs with a .289 average and 118 RBIs, which earned him the AL Rookie of the Year award. McGwire became one of the game’s greatest power hitters, finishing his career with 583 home runs, a .263 batting average, and 1,414 RBIs. He famously hit 70 home runs in 1998, sparking renewed excitement in baseball.
Casey Candaele – 2B – Expos
Known for his versatility and hustle, Casey Candaele was a valuable utility player for the Expos and later the Astros. In his rookie season, he batted .272 with 1 home run and 26 RBIs. Over nine seasons, he hit .250 with 11 home runs and 139 RBIs, and his all-around play made him a fan favorite.
Kevin Seitzer – 3B – Royals
Kevin Seitzer made a splash in his rookie season, hitting .323 with 15 home runs and 83 RBIs, earning an All-Star nod. Known for his exceptional on-base skills, Seitzer played 12 seasons and maintained a .295 average with 74 home runs and 613 RBIs. He later became a successful hitting coach, sharing his expertise with future generations of hitters.
Al Pedrique – SS – Pirates
Al Pedrique debuted with solid defense and a .301 batting average in his rookie season. Though his MLB career was brief, Pedrique went on to become a respected coach and manager in MLB organizations. His influence on players as a coach has left a lasting impact on the game.
Ellis Burks – OF – Red Sox
Ellis Burks impressed fans with his combination of power and speed, hitting .272 with 20 home runs, 59 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases in his rookie season. Over his 18-year career, Burks hit .291 with 352 home runs and 1,206 RBIs, earning two All-Star selections, a Gold Glove, and a Silver Slugger. Burks played a key role on several playoff teams and was known for his consistent bat and solid defense.
Mike Greenwell – OF – Red Sox
Nicknamed “The Gator,” Mike Greenwell had a stellar rookie season, batting .328 with 19 home runs and 89 RBIs. In 1988, he finished second in AL MVP voting. Over his career, he maintained a .303 batting average with 130 home runs and 726 RBIs. Greenwell spent his entire career with the Red Sox and became a fan favorite in Boston for his clutch hitting.
Devon White – OF – Angels
Devon White, known as “Devo,” was a defensive wizard in center field, winning seven Gold Gloves throughout his career. In his rookie season, he hit .263 with 24 home runs, 87 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases. Over 17 seasons, White hit .263 with 208 home runs, 846 RBIs, and 346 stolen bases. He won three World Series titles and was known for his speed and spectacular catches.
Mike Dunne – P – Pirates
Mike Dunne posted a 13-6 record with a 3.03 ERA, finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting. Although his career was brief, he showed promise with his solid ERA and control on the mound. Dunne played five seasons, finishing with a 25-30 record and a 4.08 ERA.
Jeff Musselman – P – Blue Jays
Jeff Musselman was a reliable reliever for the Blue Jays in his rookie year, finishing with a 12-5 record and a 4.15 ERA. He compiled a 23-15 record with a 4.31 ERA, providing steady relief.
Conclusion
The 1987 Topps All-Star Rookie Team was packed with talented players who quickly made their mark in Major League Baseball. From McGwire’s home run records to White’s stellar defense, these rookies gave fans a glimpse of baseball’s future. Each player’s journey is a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of the game.