Jimmie Foxx (1925-1935)
Originally a catcher, Jimmie Foxx shifted around the diamond before finding a home at first base. Once he became a regular, it did not take long for him to become a star.
A muscular slugger when that type of player was a rarity, it was said that Foxx had muscles on his muscles. It certainly helped him drive the ball, as he had eight consecutive seasons with 30 or more homers with the Athletics, leading the league three times. He won the Triple Crown in 1933, and won two MVP awards while in Philadelphia. Foxx was also a part of the first nine All Star Games, a fitting tribute for a player of his capabilities.
Overall with the Athletics, Foxx proved to be a key piece in their fearsome lineup. He produced a .339/.440/.640 batting line with Philadelphia, belting 302 homers while driving in 1075 runs. Foxx also drew 781 walks while striking out only 644 times, showing an impressive batting eye for such a powerful slugger.
Eventually, Foxx followed his A’s teammate and fellow member on the franchise Mount Rushmore, Lefty Grove, to Boston. He continued to put up his impressive numbers, and appeared to be a threat to challenge Babe Ruth‘s all time home run mark. However, a horrific beaning led to a sudden decline, and Foxx eventually finished his career as a pitcher with the Phillies in 1945.
One of the most powerful players in the history of the game, Jimmie Foxx would have looked at home in the modern era of baseball. Had he stayed healthy, he could have been one of the all time legends in baseball history.