3. Carlos Zambrano – Chicago Cubs/Miami Marlins
Carlos Zambrano was always a solid pitcher. Near the end of his career he struggled, but early on for the Chicago Cubs, he was reliable. He had three All-Star selections and finished his best season with a 2.75 ERA, 16 wins, and an 8.1 K/9 ratio.
However, besides pitching and his outbursts in the dugout, Zambrano is also notoriously known for having a powerful swing. The big 275-pounder hit a home run every year from 2003 until his last season in 2012.
Zambrano is a three-time Silver Slugger award, winning the first when he hit six home runs and drove in 11. Two years later, the right-hander hit .337 with four home runs and five extra base hits. The following year- his last Silver Slugger – Zambrano hit four home runs and drove in 11.
Always a threat at the plate, Zambrano would more often than not cause a pitcher to second-think throwing a fastball in the strike zone. Zambrano could turn on the ball and drive it deep into the outfield with ease.
The 12-year hitting career for Zambrano ended with an average of .238, 24 home runs, and an OPS+ of 62. He also had 29 extra base hits and 71 RBI.
Next: Wes Ferrell