Phillies: 29 years ago today, Mike Schmidt sets an MLB record
This day in Phillies history, the greatest third baseman to play the game sets an impressive record.
When the name Mike Schmidt comes to conversation, it’s almost always followed by “the greatest third baseman to ever play”. That’s no small compliment. George Brett, Brooks Robinson, and many other third basemen have solidified themselves as greats, but none enough to surpass the Phillies great.
The numbers really speak for themselves. 548 home runs, 2,234 hits, 3 MVPs, and 10 gold gloves, can only tell you on paper how incredible Schmidt really was. His durability and consistent power allowed him to see one of the greatest careers this game has seen.
29 years ago today, he broke a pretty remarkable record. He set the record for most National League appearances at third base with 2,155. In that game, Schmidt went 0-4, as the New York Mets took a 7-5 win over the Phillies. Schmidt went on to have just 54 more appearances, thanks to a torn rotator cuff and a surprisingly abrupt retirement.
When Phillies fans hear the name Mike Schmidt, they think of absolute on-field greatness. He brought the city a championship, gave the city a star, gave them a legend. Schmidt broke a lot of third baseman records in his career, and the National League appearances record must’ve felt good considering he was nearing the end of his illustrious career.
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It’s the reason he was coined with the nickname “Iron Mike”. He also recorded 187 appearances at second base, first base, and shortstop. At one point, it was hard to find a more complete player than Schmidt. Someone who could stay healthy, while hitting, fielding, and even base running at an elite level was like a unicorn. Not many will find the all-around ability combined with blessed health through most of their careers like Schmidt did.
Hall of Fame player, Phillies legend, and a baseball great. Michael Jack Schmidt put himself in the eternal memory of Philadelphia sports. He’s a great who played in an unforgiving city, and won them over (mostly). And on this day 29 years ago, he once again proved his greatness with yet another record. Mike Schmidt’s legacy will be one of home runs and gold gloves, but his durability and longevity should be talked about more often.
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Nearing 40-years of age, Schmidt was still a threat to hit the long ball. Sometimes the greats don’t fade, but instead play until their bodies can longer withstand the strain of an MLB season.