Bob Boone was praised as a defensive catcher all thru his 19-year career. He was an intelligent handler of pitchers with a reputation of studying of both hitters and pitchers. He broke in with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1973 and finished third in the Rookie of the Year voting. In 1976, Bob Boone won his first of five trips to the All-Star Game and his talents were showcased as the Phillies made three straight trips to the post season championships. In 1978-79, he won back to back Gold Glove honors. He batted a team high .412 in the 1980 World Series leading the Phillies to a six game title over the Kansas City Royals. Bob Boone was sold to the California Angels in 1982 and with his rifle arm threw out 63 of 109 runners attempting to steal and won his 1st AL Gold Glove. His play helped the Angels win the AL West Title in 1986. In the playoffs vs. the Red Sox, he hit .455 with five consecutive hits only to see the Angels lose in five games. In 1986, at age 38, Boone became the oldest non-pitcher ever to win the Gold Glove - and did so the next two years. When he retired Bob Boone held the record for the most games caught. Boone won a total of seven Gold Gloves and his career batting record: .254 BA, 303 doubles, 105 home runs, 826 RBI's in 2264 games. Bob Boone's father, Ray, was an All-Star shortstop during the 1950's and his sons, Bret and Aaron currently play in the major leagues... Baseballhistorian.com |