Detroit Tigers: 20 Best Hitters in the Last 30 Years

Jul 4, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Servicemen line the infield before the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Toronto Blue Jays at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

6. Bobby Higginson

He played eleven years with Tigers and put up some outstanding statistics at the plate. In his second season in the MLB, he batted .320 with an OPS of .982. He had 141 hits and 26 home runs. The following year, his batting average dipped, but his hits and RBIs increased to 163 and 101. In 2000, he batted .300 with an OPS of .915. He also drove in over 100 RBIs, hitting 30 home runs, 44 doubles, and steaing 15 bases.

Despite his success at the plate and in the outfield, he never was awarded with a spot on the All-Star game. He also never received Gold Gloves or Silver Sluggers. Considering that he was a contemporary of hitters like Jason Giambi, Albert Belle, and Mike Piazza, it is no surprise that he was underrated. Now, that the Steroid Era has been identified, Bobby Higginson’s work at the plate and in the outfield has become more impressive.

As an outfielder, he frequently led the league or finished in the top five in assists, double plays, putouts, and range.

Next: #5