Center Field – Gorman Thomas (1973-1976, 1978-1983, 1986)
A key part of the Harvey’s Wallbangers team in 1982, Gorman Thomas was almost lost following the 1977 season.
After struggling in his first four seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, Thomas spent the 1977 season in AAA. While he preformed well, and hit 36 homers, the Brwers did not have room for him on the 40 man roster, leading to a trade with the Rangers. The Rangers later sold Thomas back to the Brewers after the Rule V Draft, where he would become a low average, high strikeout power hitter.
Thomas was a true all or nothing hitter. A two time home run king, he had 208 home runs for the Brewers. Thomas also produced a .230/.325/.461 batting line, striking out 1033 times. However, he drew 501 walks in 4133 plate appearances, making his mark as a three true outcomes batter.
Despite being relatively slow afoot, Thomas played a passable center field. He would consistently produce league average numbers defensively, and proved to be somewhat adept in the outfield. Although he would never be confused with a Gold Glove caliber outfielder, Thomas’ instincts, as he was originally drafted as a shortstop, proved valuable.
A first round draft pick back in the days of the Seattle Pilots in 1986, Gorman Thomas made a mark as a member of the Brewers. His power bat helped fuel those contending teams of the early 1980’s, as he led the league in home runs during that glorious run to the World Series in 1982.