The newly relocated Oakland Athletics’ fortunes turned around on signing and keeping this vanguard of the middle infield....in years before the KC A’s were known to give away talent to the Yankees with little in return and suffered mightily....The speedy and quick, Cuban born import becomes the first building block of the A’s 70’s mini-dynasty.....after a short tour of the A’s farm system, Bert debuts on July 22, 1964....hits two home runs in his first game....Establishes himself at short in 1965 taking the first of four consecutive stolen base crowns, six for his career.....also brought notoriety to him and the A’s by playing all 9 positions in a late season contest 1968.....consistent at the plate, BA averaging a range of .290 to .250 for a majority of his 19 years....once led the AL in triples, later on hits....One oddity was going yard 22 times in 1970 whereas he never reached double figures at any other time.....added talent to the “Swingin A’s” Campaneris collected 3 World Pennants 72-74.....After 13 years of loyal service to Charlie O Finley’s crew opts for free agency.....Texas takes the bait and pays out....solid season in 1977 despite a 50% reduction in stolen bases....stumbles badly in 1978 BA dropping significantly....another poor start in 1979 Bert is flipped to the Angels....relegated to reserve role through but stays through 1981....continues his playing days in Mexican League circa 1982....in bold and surprising move accepts assignment to AAA Columbus in 1983....hits well and earns a call up to the Yankees....responds in kind with a career best .322 BA utilizing 46 hits in 143 at bats....excellent exit portal....Has become somewhat overlooked as a premiere AL shortstop for a good portion the 1960’s and 1970’s....2021 lives in Scottsdale AZ, and remains active baseball alumni activities.
No comments:
Post a Comment