Here’s a blog post capturing the careers of the 1979 Topps All-Star Rookie Team—a group that included memorable personalities and multi-sport athletes:
Steve Nicosia – C – Pirates
Steve Nicosia served as a key catcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, notably contributing to their 1979 World Series victory. Known for his defensive skills and rapport with the pitching staff, he ended his eight-year career with a .248 batting average, 11 home runs, and 88 RBIs. Nicosia was a fan favorite for his hustle and presence behind the plate, making him a reliable component of the Pirates’ roster.
Pat Putnam – 1B – Rangers
Pat Putnam, a power-hitting first baseman, brought significant strength to the Rangers lineup. Across seven seasons, he batted .255 with 63 home runs and 255 RBIs. Putnam’s best season came in 1980, when he hit .277 with 18 homers and 64 RBIs. Known for his slugging ability, he played with Texas, Seattle, and Minnesota, adding consistent power from the left side of the plate.
Danny Ainge – 2B – Blue Jays
Danny Ainge is best known for his career in the NBA, but he also played three seasons in MLB with the Toronto Blue Jays. He posted a .220 average with two home runs and 37 RBIs before shifting to a successful basketball career, where he won two NBA championships. Ainge’s athleticism was notable, and his transition to the NBA remains one of the rare multi-sport success stories in professional sports.
John Castino – 3B – Twins
John Castino shared the 1979 AL Rookie of the Year Award with Alfredo Griffin, hitting .285 with 5 home runs and 52 RBIs that season. Castino had a start to his career, posting a lifetime average of .278 with 41 home runs and 249 RBIs. Despite his career being brief, Castino’s impact in Minnesota was significant, as he provided solid defense and clutch hitting.
Alfredo Griffin – SS – Blue Jays
Alfredo Griffin, nicknamed “El Duque,” had an impressive rookie season, co-winning the 1979 AL Rookie of the Year with John Castino. Griffin played 18 years, hitting .249 with 24 home runs, 527 RBIs, and 192 stolen bases. He was an All-Star in 1984 and earned a reputation as a reliable infielder. Griffin eventually became a respected coach after his playing career.
Jeff Leonard – OF – Astros
“Penitentiary Face” Jeff Leonard played 14 seasons, known for his powerful hitting and intimidating presence. Over his career, Leonard hit .266 with 144 home runs and 723 RBIs. He was a two-time All-Star and won the 1987 NLCS MVP with the Giants, hitting four home runs in the series. Leonard’s hard-nosed style and memorable scowl made him a fan favorite and a challenging opponent on the field.
Billy Sample – OF – Rangers
Billy Sample spent nine years in the majors and brought consistent hitting and speed to the lineup. Sample hit .272 with 46 home runs, 230 RBIs, and 98 stolen bases. Known for his baseball intelligence and humor, Sample transitioned to a successful broadcasting career after playing. His career year was in 1983, when he hit .274 with 12 homers and 44 RBIs.
Scot Thompson – OF – Cubs
Scot Thompson was a versatile outfielder for the Chicago Cubs, known for his solid contact hitting and reliable glove. In his six-year career, Thompson hit .259 with 9 home runs and 112 RBIs. His best season came in 1979, when he hit .289, helping solidify his role in the Cubs outfield rotation. Thompson’s ability to play all three outfield positions made him a valuable utility player for Chicago.
Mark Clear – P – Angels
Mark Clear, a hard-throwing right-hander, made his mark as a reliever with a 12-year career, compiling 83 saves and a 3.85 ERA. Known for his distinctive submarine delivery and strikeout ability, Clear was a two-time All-Star. His best year came in 1982 with the Red Sox, posting a 14-9 record with 14 saves and a 3.00 ERA. Clear’s unique pitching style and durability made him a key bullpen asset for the Angels, Red Sox, and Brewers.
Ross Baumgarten – P – White Sox
Ross Baumgarten, a left-handed pitcher, debuted with a stellar rookie season in 1979, going 13-8 with a 3.54 ERA. Known for his curveball, he played five seasons, finishing with a 22-36 record and a 4.09 ERA. Baumgarten’s rookie season remains a highlight, as he showed promise as a strong rotation option for the White Sox.
Conclusion
The 1979 Topps All-Star Rookie Team showcased a group of athletes, from two-sport star Danny Ainge to future MLB coaches. This class brought diversity in skill sets, their impact on baseball and beyond remains noteworthy. The 1979 rookie team captured the talent and charisma of a dynamic era in baseball.