Happy Belated Birthday to John Olerud, former All-Star and Gold Glove First Baseman, one of the more forgotten and overshadowed players of his era. Whether with the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets,or the Seattle Mariners, he excelled at the plate or in the field.

Career Statistics/Accolades (1989-2005):

.295 BA, 2,239 HITS, 255 HR, 1,230 RBI, .398 OBP, 1,139 RUNS

• 2x All-Star

• 3x Gold-Glove

• 2x World Series

• Batting Champion 1993

As well as a great contact hitter with a bit of power, Olerud had a great eye at the plate. Career-wise, he drew 1,275 Walks while only striking out 1,016 times. From 1992-2003, for twelve straight seasons, he drew more Walks than Strike Outs. Also, he is one of twenty-six players in the game’s history to hit for the cycle multiple times. The highlight of his career took place in 92-93, winning back-to-back World Series with the Blue Jays. In 1993, he finished 3rd in the MVP voting, leading the league in Doubles at 54, a Batting Average of .363, and On Base Percentage of .473. His three years with the Mets were all but exceptional, recording the highest single-season Batting Average of .354 in Mets history in 1998. He made his way to the Mariners and would be a big piece to one of the greatest regular season teams in baseball history in 2001.

John Olerud was also an excellent fielder at first base. Career-wise, he spent 17,230 Innings at First Base, maintaining a Fielding Percentage of .995. From 1991 until the end of his career, his Fielding Percentage never dipped under .993%.

Unfortunately, Olerud is in the same boat with guys like Carlos Delgado & Fred McGriff, who were also his Blue Jay teammates. Guys who were overshadowed by playing in the same era with guys who were either just a little better than them or guys who were taking PEDs. I’m not saying Olerud belongs in the Hall of Fame cause I don’t think he put up enough years, but he was overshadowed.

References:

1. John Olerud via Wikipedia: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Olerud

2. John Olerud Career Statistics via Baseball-Reference: https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/olerujo01.shtml