Detroit Tigers: 20 Best Hitters in the Last 30 Years

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Apr 26, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Former Detroit Tiger Lou Whitaker (left) is presented with a water color painting to commemorate his 2015 Detroit Tigers African American Legacy Award by former Tiger Willie Horton and starting pitcher

David Price

(right) before the game against the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Lou Whitaker

Like his infield counterpart, Alan Trammell, Sweet Lou played his entire career in Detroit. In his rookie season, he won the Rookie of the Year award. Then for the five years between 1983 and 1987, he played in the All-Star Games, won four Silver Slugger awards, and three Gold Glove awards. He finished his career was a 74.9 WAR, a batting average of 276, with 2369 hits, and 1084 RBIs. He frequently had seasons with top ten statistics throughout his career.

His legacy in Detroit is one of quiet strength and discipline. Fans who saw him play at Tiger Stadium will remember the “Loooouuuuuu” cheers that sounded like boos. When he came to the plate, people noticed. Despite the fact that Detroit Tigers fans believe he and Trammell should be immortalized in the Hall of Fame, he did not receive enough votes to make it beyond his first year of eligibility. Many believe that his number should be retired in Comerica Park, although number one looks good on Jose Iglesias.

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