Some adjustments to his batting stance helped Cecil Cooper transform himself into one of the better hitters in the American League in the mid-1970s and early 1980s. After he adopted a style similar to that of Rod Carew, Cooper strung together seven straight .300 seasons. But unlike Carew, Cooper displayed power, launching as many as 32 homers out of the park. Unfortunately, he had his finest seasons in the shadows of George Brett and teammates Robin Yount and Paul Molitor. He led the league in RBI twice and earned a pair of Gold Gloves, as well.
Quotes About Cecil Cooper
"He's one of the finest gentlemen I've ever known. I loved having him as a player." — Bud Selig, on Cecil Cooper
Teams Cecil Cooper Played For
Boston Red Sox (1971-1976) Milwaukee Brewers (1977-1987)
Where does Cecil Cooper rank among baseball greats?
Cecil Cooper ranks #40 among the Top 50 all-time at 1B. Rankings ⇒
Best Season: 1980 Had it not been for George Brett, Cooper would have easily won the batting title and probably been better recognized for a super season. He hit .352 (well below Brett's .390), good for second in the league, and led the loop in RBI and total bases. He also garnered a Gold Glove Award for his play at first base.
Post-Season Appearances
1975 American League Championship Series
1975 World Series
1981 American League Division Playoffs
1982 American League Championship Series
1982 World Series
Awards and Honors
1979 AL Gold Glove
1980 AL Gold Glove
Batting Feats
July 27, 1979: 3 HR...
Hitting Streaks
22 games (1980)
16 games (1979)
16 games (1980)
15 games (1980)
All-Star Selections
1979 AL
1980 AL
1982 AL
1983 AL
1985 AL
