Chicago Cubs: Where does Anthony Rizzo rank in team history?

Apr 22, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the entrance to the bleachers before the game between the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Bill Buckner – 1977-1984

Bill Buckner, yes, the one and the same.  Before being known as the guy who cost the Boston Red Sox the World Series in 1986 against the New York Mets, Buckner was a member of the Chicago Cubs.  Because of a staff infection that forced him out of playing in the outfield, Buckner was moved over to first base and he would play there for the rest of his career. The move turned out to be a good one for both the Cubs and Buckner.

Buckner was a solid first baseman for the Cubs, but his bat was his best contribution to the Cubs.  During his eight-year stay with the Cubs, Buckner’s batting average was at .300.  In 1980, Buckner led the National League in batting average at .324.  In 1981, Buckner would represent the Cubs as an All-Star, his lone all-star appearance in his 22-year career.

Buckner wasn’t a power hitter but he was a very consistent hitter, in a fashion very similar to Grace. He would only hit a career-high of 16 home runs in a season while with the Cubs, but would lead the National League in doubles twice – with 35 in 1981 and 38 in 1983.

In 1984, Buckner was traded to the Boston Red Sox for future Hall of Fame pitcher Dennis Eckersley and bench player Mike Brumley.

Cubs career stats:  .300 batting average, 81 home runs, 516 runs batted in