The Walker Files: The Epitomy of the Complete Player

Maple Ridge, B.C., native Larry Walker is worthy of a plaque in Cooperstown. Photo Credit: BSN Denver

By Tracy Ringolsby

What sets Larry Walker apart from others is the completeness of his game. He could hit for average, hit for power, run the bases, and field. If you look for players who hit .300, had an on-base percentage of .400 and a slugging percentage of .500 along with 450 doubles, 60 triples, 350 home runs and 1,250 RBI, Walker is one of seven players who would surface. Add 150 stolen bases and he is in a class all his own. Oh, and don’t forget he won seven Gold Gloves.

Player Season 2B 3B HR RBI AVG OBP SLG
Stan Musial 1941-1963 725 177 475 1951 .331 .417 .559
Mel Ott 1926-1947 488 72 511 1864 .304 .414 .533
Babe Ruth 1914-1935 506 136 714 2218 .342 .474 .690
Jimmie Foxx 1925-1945 458 125 534 1922 .325 .428 .609
Ted Williams 1939-1960 525 71 521 1839 .344 .482 .634
Lou Gehrig 1923-1939 534 163 493 1997 .340 .447 .632
Larry Walker 1989-2005 471 62 383 1311 .313 .400 .565