Thursday, January 17, 2019

#145 Don Kessinger


The most consistent shortstop of his time...not much power but a decent line hitter...a Cub regular who is less of a name now when compared to Williams, Banks, Santo, Fergie Jenkin...Named to 6  all star teams in a 7 year stretch...the one year excluded, 1973 qualitatively was on par or even better than years he made the squad...excelled at turning the double play....Kessinger’s career trajectory  mirrors  that of the Cubs, struggling in the mid 60’s, progressively improved, best year took place in 1969....followed by above average results to gradual decline....After a great run, Kessinger parted ways with Cubs after 1975....traded to St. Louis, unusual for the Cub to deal with a longtime rival....Was a regular in 1976 lineup, appearing in 145 games mostly at Shortstop....lost playing time 1977 with the arrival of Gary Templeton and traded to cross townChicago White Sox late in the season....Kessinger regains the playing time he was used to in earlier days in 1978....named player-manager for 1979...dual role cut into playing time....won 46 and lost 60....retired after 7 game losing streak about 2/3rd  into the season....replaced by rookie manager Tony LaRussa....ending both MLB playing and managing....went into managing in the college ranks thereafter....man of strong Christian belief and positivity. 


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